Timeless Wisdom One of my favorite investors of all time, Peter Lynch, who ran the famous Fidelity Magellan fund in the 70s and 80s and averaged 29%, said famously, “ If you spend more than 13 minutes analyzing economic and market forecasts, you've wasted 10 minutes", which means when investing focus on what you are buying, your risk tolerance, your timeframe and IGNORE THE NOISE! This is good advice. I know I have written about this previously, but it cannot be said enough: do not change your investment strategy based on the economic outlook. Stay the course. And for what it’s worth, Peter Lynch’s Magellan fund doubled the performance of the S&P 500 while he managed it.     A Look at the Numbers: 2025 Mid-Year Returns With that being said, overall returns have been volatile, but they have been good. As of the writing of this article, the S&P 500 is up 8.1%, the Nasdaq is up 9.1%, the Dow Jones is up 5%, the Russell is up 2.3% and MSCI EAFE is up 20%. We experienced some volatility earlier in the year due to potential tariff implementations . MSCI EAFE, or international stocks, has been the most significant contributor to returns this year. This is a welcome phenomenon because international returns have significantly lagged domestic returns for more than a decade. The Russell 2000 has again lagged larger US stocks; this is not a new trend. The Russell had a huge boom post-COVID in 2020, rolled over, and had a terrible 2022, sluggishly fighting its way back ever since. We have not given up on our small-cap friends. A tailwind for small-cap stocks could be lower interest rates, but again, we have no idea when, or if, the Fed will lower rates.   Large-cap growth has again been driven significantly by large-cap tech names; Nvidia, Microsoft, and Facebook have done well, but not all names have participated. Apple is down 14% and TSLA is down 20% or more—another reason to diversify.   Long-Term Focus, Long-Term Gains Overall, our strategy remains unchanged; we believe in diversification and a long-term approach to investing. Volatility is the price that investors pay for good returns. There will be ups and downs along the way, but that is normal.   If you would like to discuss your portfolio further or review your financial plan for the remainder of the year, please reach out to your financial advisor today to schedule a meeting. They can help answer questions and discuss strategies to help you reach your financial goals.

Diversifying your portfolio is a fundamental principle of smart investing, and real estate can play a powerful role in that strategy.  Like our friend, Dave Ramsey , Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers believes that real estate could make sense in your portfolio.    Unlike stocks and bonds, real estate  could be an alternate way of generating a unique blend of income generation, appreciation potential, and tax benefits—all of which can strengthen your overall financial position.   Real Estate as a Source of Passive Income One of the main reasons investors turn to real estate is for passive income. Rental properties, especially in stable or growing markets, can provide a consistent monthly cash flow that supplements income from more volatile sources, such as equities. This steady income can be especially valuable during economic downturns or retirement.   Additionally, real estate has the potential to appreciate in value over time, particularly in areas experiencing population growth, economic development, or a limited housing supply. While markets fluctuate, long-term trends in real estate generally show upward movement, making it a reliable store of value.   Real estate also offers important tax advantages. Through depreciation, mortgage interest deductions, and the ability to defer capital gains through strategies like 1031 exchanges , investors can often reduce their tax burden. These incentives enhance the after-tax return on investment compared to other asset classes.   More Control Over Your Investment Furthermore, real estate tends to have a low correlation with stocks and bonds, which helps reduce overall portfolio risk. During periods of financial market volatility, real estate can provide a buffer, contributing to a more balanced and resilient investment strategy.   Finally, for investors seeking greater control, real estate allows for active management decisions—such as choosing properties, setting rents, and implementing improvements—that can directly impact returns.   A Personalized Approach to Real Estate Investing While real estate does come with risks, such as illiquidity, tenant issues, and market cycles, thoughtful planning and due diligence can help mitigate them. For those seeking to build wealth, diversify their income streams, and gain exposure to tangible assets, adding real estate to their investment portfolio can be a smart and strategic move.   There are many types of real estate, and various ways to invest in real estate. Therefore, be sure to consult with your Financial Advisor to discuss what might be best for you.

Why an Income Floor Is the Foundation of a Secure Retirement This article is for anyone who doesn’t have a clear plan for where their retirement income will come from to cover monthly expenses, or for those already drawing Social Security benefits but feeling stretched to make ends meet. Planning your cash flow in retirement is crucial, and one of the best ways to do that is by understanding and establishing your income floor . What Is an Income Floor? An income floor  refers to the minimum amount of reliable income you should aim to receive each month in retirement to cover your essential living expenses —things like housing, utilities, groceries, and medical costs. The most common income sources used to build this floor include: Social Security benefits Pension income Dividends from bonds or dividend-paying stocks Having a predictable monthly cash flow provides peace of mind and financial stability. It also helps protect your investments from being sold during market downturns, thereby reducing your sequence of returns risk —the risk of poor investment returns early in retirement negatively impacting your long-term finances.  Different Streams of Income While Social Security is a foundational income source for most retirees, it often is not enough on its own to support your whole lifestyle. That's why it’s essential to establish multiple income streams. These might include the following: Pension payments Dividend income Rental income Part-time work Annuity income   These supplemental income sources provide flexibility and security, enabling you to maintain your desired standard of living throughout retirement . For those nearing or already in retirement who feel behind, some of these options may no longer be viable. In that case, part-time work would be the most practical and immediate way to boost your monthly cash flow and reduce financial pressure.   Building a Budget to Match Your Income Floor Your income floor is only meaningful if you know what it needs to support, which means having a solid budget in place. Understanding your monthly and annual expenses  allows you to determine whether your guaranteed income is sufficient or if you’ll need to rely on savings or other sources to close the gap. If you do not yet have a budget in place, I strongly recommend reading the following article by Lindsey Curry on building a ‘zero-based budget’  or scheduling a consultation with one of our financial advisors , who can help you create a customized plan.   Final Thoughts Knowing where your retirement “paycheck” will come from and ensuring it is enough to meet your needs is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward long-term financial peace of mind. An income floor provides the foundation. From there, you can build a retirement strategy that is both secure and flexible.

The Ohio legislature passed its budget bill for the next 2 years that will bring Ohio’s income tax to the 2nd lowest state income tax in the country (behind North Dakota) among the states that have an income tax.    What’s Changing in 2025 and 2026 Effective in 2025, the tax rate for income earned over $100,000 will drop from 3.5% to 3.125%.    The progressive tax system Ohio has had for many years will have the lower two brackets remain unchanged—0% for income under $26,050 and 2.75% for income between $26,050 and $100,000.   Starting in 2026 and beyond, Ohio will implement a flat tax rate system of 2.75% for all income above $26,050. Twelve other states currently have a flat tax system, with Iowa and Mississippi also moving to one in 2026.    Below are the brackets for the 2024-2026 period.    Don’t Forget About Local Taxes Ohio city and school district income taxes are separate and vary by location.  You can check your local rate using the Ohio Department of Taxation's “ The Finder ” website.   You can see the history of Ohio rates from 2005-2024 here:  https://tax.ohio.gov/individual/resources/annual-tax-rates   How Ohio Compares to Neighboring States Interestingly, Ohio will have the lowest tax rate compared to neighboring states, where the top state tax rates are: Indiana – Flat Tax of 3.05% Kentucky – Flat Tax of 4.00% West Virginia – Progressive Tax with top rate of 5.12% Pennsylvania – Flat Tax of 3.07% Michigan – Flat Tax of 4.25%   Why These Changes Matter to You As with federal laws, state laws are also “written in pencil”.   Meaning that these laws will be in effect going forward, but future politicians can always modify them.   That’s why it’s essential to stay up to date on these changes to determine if and how they will impact you.    Take the Guesswork Out of Tax Changes Ohio’s income tax updates could impact your long-term financial strategy—whether you’re planning for retirement, running a business, or simply looking to maximize your take-home income. At Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, you can rely on our team of financial advisors  and tax advisors , who are here to help you navigate these changes with clarity and confidence. Schedule a consultation today  to see how these new laws could affect your financial plan and what proactive steps you can take.

Always be buying (ABB!) The impact of dollar cost averaging  is clear, but it’s also important to remember that buying at all-time market highs can have its advantages. Don’t let market peaks hold you back. Stay focused, stay consistent, and remember the mantra: Always Be Buying!   What is dollar cost averaging (DCA) Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) is an investment strategy in which you invest a fixed amount of money at regular intervals, regardless of whether the market is up or down. Rather than trying to time the perfect entry , DCA helps smooth out the purchase price of your investments over time. This approach can help reduce the emotional stress associated with market volatility and mitigate the risk of investing a large sum just before a downturn. It’s particularly appealing to long-term investors seeking to build wealth  gradually while managing downside risk. Data from: JP Morgan, Guide to the markets Fear of Buying at Highs One of the most common psychological barriers investors face is the fear of buying at all-time highs. Many worry that investing when markets are elevated sets them up for an imminent drop. However, the left side of the chart tells a different story. Historically, the S&P 500 has made numerous all-time highs, reflecting the broader trend of long-term growth. The data show that since the start of 2024, the S&P 500 has already reached 62 new highs, with approximately 6.7% of trading days closing at a record level. Moreover, nearly 30% of those highs ultimately became “market floors,” meaning prices didn’t drop below those levels afterward, underscoring that new highs are often not ceilings but stepping stones to further growth. Returns After Buying at Highs The right-hand side of the chart provides powerful evidence that investing at all-time highs has historically not been a disastrous choice. From 1988 to the end of 2024, the average cumulative returns after buying the S&P 500 at a new high were very similar—and in some cases slightly higher—than returns from investing on any random day. For example, over five years, investing at all-time highs yielded an average cumulative return of 80.9%, compared to 74.7% for investing on any day. Even shorter-term returns are not dramatically different. This challenges the notion that buying at highs is inherently dangerous and supports the idea that staying invested—regardless of market levels—often pays off over time. DCA Helps Bridge the Emotional Gap Dollar-cost averaging provides a practical approach to overcome the fear of investing at market highs. Instead of waiting for the “perfect dip,” investors steadily add to their portfolios, which helps capture both highs and lows. The data shows that the market’s upward bias over time has rewarded consistent investors, whether they entered at highs or not. For investors concerned about market timing, DCA combines discipline with the statistical evidence presented in the chart above: investing—even at new highs—has historically yielded solid returns, especially when given sufficient time to compound. The key takeaway is that long-term investing and consistent contributions often trump trying to predict short-term market movements, and to ABB, Always Be Buying! To learn more about how Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers  can help you on your journey, schedule a meeting with one of our financial advisors . If you desire, and are data nerdy like I am, don’t hesitate to reach out to me  so we can dive deep into market data that may provide additional insight to your journey.

Using this simple tool could help your family become multi-millionaires by the time they turn 50!   What Are “Trump Accounts?” Recently, President Trump addressed one of the key components of the current version of the “big beautiful” tax bill that was recently signed into law. The bill includes a historic provision to create individual investment accounts for American babies born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028.   To be eligible, the babies must be U.S.-born citizens with valid Social Security numbers, born to parents who also have valid Social Security numbers.    Below are a few highlights; for more information, please visit the White House website . The U.S. government will make an initial deposit of $1,000 per child.  Family members and friends may also make annual contributions to these individual accounts, as long as the combined annual contributions do not exceed $5,000.  The investment selection must be in a low-cost, diversified U.S. stock index fund or equivalent, and currently, no withdrawals can be made from the account until the child reaches the age of 18. Qualified withdrawals will be taxed at the account holder’s capital gains tax rate, which is a lower rate than ordinary income. Unqualified withdrawals for a beneficiary under 30 may be subject to ordinary income tax, plus a 10% penalty. Trump accounts are intended to be used for certain “qualified” wealth-building expenses such as: higher education, post-secondary credentialing, purchasing a home, or even small-business start-up costs. While we have the basic scaffolding of how these Trump Accounts will look, there are still many unanswered questions, particularly related to complicated withdrawal rules (one rule is that no more than half of the balance of the accounts may be withdrawn between the ages of 18 and 25).   Does it really matter? Yes!  Well, it could—and the degree to which it matters depends on whether the account just sits idly with the initial $1,000 deposit, or family members and others find a way to take advantage of the ability to make extra contributions to the beneficiary account.    Here is a chart displaying how a $1,000 investment grows over 25 years, assuming a 10% annual rate of return—the average expected return of a 100% equity portfolio over the past 30 years, according to data from Prudential.    If you are unfamiliar with the miracle of compound interest ,  this illustrates how the potential for growth of such a small account can be staggering:   $1,000 Lump Sum à $10,835 $1,000 Lump Sum +50/month à $68,730 $1,000 Lump Sum +100/month à 126,626 $1,000 Lump Sum +400/month à $483,505   At the age of 25, portions of these accounts would be eligible for withdrawal for qualified expenses and would be taxed at long-term capital gains rates.  However, how might this significant financial head start grow if the balance were not withdrawn and the child (now an adult) simply takes the account and rolls it into an IRA, beginning to make the annual maximum contributions to these accounts until they reach age 50?    Here’s the table of final balances at age 50 for each inflation-adjusted annual contribution level, assuming a 10% annual return: Here’s the chart with IRA account balances shown in millions of dollars ($M): Dashed lines: Growth from an initial lump sum with no further contributions. Solid lines: Growth from the same initial amount plus inflation-adjusted annual IRA contributions, a maximum of $7,000. Initial Investment Final Balance (No Contributions) Final Balance (+Max IRA Contributions) $10,835 $0.12M ($120,000) $1.05M $68,730 $0.74M ($740,000) $1.68M $126,626 $1.37M $2.31M $483,505 $5.24M $6.17M Can we do it? Minting millionaires doesn’t have to be a dream—it starts with small choices.  Choosing to contribute just $50 per month into one of these Trump Accounts, could yield a positive difference of $58,000 by the time a child has graduated college—and a difference of $620,000 by the time a child turns 50 (even if they don’t ever make any contributions of their own).  Suppose the beneficiary of this hypothetical +$50/month Trump Account chooses to follow in the footsteps of their benefactors by maxing out their own IRA contributions. In that case, they will have nearly $1.7 million.    Make Small Sacrifices It's so tempting to want to buy the best of everything for your new baby, especially if it's your first.  Social Media algorithms will force-feed you top-of-the-line marketing designed to play on your emotions and make you feel like you have no choice but to buy the high-end stroller, the best crib, the Gucci diaper bag, etc.  Take it from the father of four boys that kids are expensive, and there will always be more things to spend money on rather than save.  How will you stick to your savings plan?  Will you get more joy out of setting your child (or grandchild/niece/nephew) up for a bright financial future than the fleeting happiness that you (or the child) might get from one of the millions of temporary pleasures?  If you can afford to dress your sweet little person in a fresh pair of Nikes, that’s great.  But remember that kids' shoes depreciate faster than a new car being driven off the lot—they could grow out of those sneakers in a matter of weeks or just a few months.  If you want to find $50 per month, you might need to adjust your standards in one or more categories.  As Dave Ramsey  says, “Live like no one else now, so that you can live like no one else later.”   If you would like to learn more about Trump Accounts and how they align with your financial plan, please reach out to your advisor today or schedule a meeting with a financial advisor if you don’t have one yet.

It’s official: the Big Beautiful Bill Act  has been signed into law. While the name might make you smile, this legislation brings serious and sweeping changes to the tax landscape—changes that could significantly affect your financial life. As your financial partner, I want to make sure you understand what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how to prepare going forward. Here are four major updates  you need to know about today. 1. Tax Brackets Made Permanent One of the biggest wins for taxpayers is the permanent extension of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) income tax brackets. Before TCJA, tax brackets increased much more steeply—starting at 10% and quickly climbing to 15%, 25%, 28%, all the way up to 39.6%. Since the TCJA, the brackets have been more favorable: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, up to a max of 37%. Without action, these brackets were set to expire, potentially increasing taxes for most Americans. Thanks to the new legislation, these lower brackets are now permanent. To put that in perspective: A couple earning $100,000  would have paid $2,428 more  in federal taxes. A couple earning $200,000  would have owed $17,006 more . This change alone represents a meaningful win for working families and retirees alike. 2. Standard Deduction Increases and Senior Bonus The Big Beautiful Bill Act  does two things regarding standard deductions: First, it makes the TCJA standard deduction levels permanent , and Second, it increases them further , starting in 2025. Here’s the breakdown: Filing Status Previous Deduction New Deduction (2025) Single $15,000 $15,750 Married Joint $30,000 $31,500 These amounts will also continue to adjust for inflation in future years. Bonus Deduction for Seniors From 2025 through 2028, seniors aged 65 and over will receive an additional $6,000 per person . That means a married couple over age 65 will be able to deduct $43,500  before owing any federal income tax. This provision echoes a long-standing promise to make Social Security income-tax-free for seniors and provides significant tax relief in retirement. 3. Child Tax Credit Permanently Increased One of the most widely used credits—the Child Tax Credit —gets a permanent boost. Previously: Pre-TCJA: $1,000 per child under 17 TCJA: Increased to $2,000 Big Beautiful Bill Act : $2,200 per child , indexed for inflation starting in 2025 This means families with young children will receive more support, year after year, with automatic cost-of-living increases built in. 4. SALT Deduction Cap Temporarily Lifted The TCJA introduced a controversial cap on State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions, limiting taxpayers to a $10,000 deduction—regardless of what they actually paid. This hit residents in high-tax states the hardest. Under the new law: The SALT cap will be temporarily lifted to $40,000  starting in 2025. However, this deduction will begin to phase out for those earning over $500,000 . What About Pass-Through Businesses? The bill preserves the popular SALT cap workaround for pass-through businesses. This allows business owners to deduct state taxes at the entity level—a crucial planning tool that remains intact. What Comes Next? This is just the beginning. The Big Beautiful Bill Act encompasses a comprehensive list of changes, and I’ll be releasing additional resources to help you understand its implications for your personal finances. In fact, I’m hosting a webinar on Monday, July 21st at 4 pm ET  with Kage Rush , CPA, and our CFO , to dive deeper into these changes. We’ll unpack strategies you can apply right now and answer your questions live. 👉  Register now  at whitakerwealth.com . Just scroll down to find the registration link. Stay Informed, Stay Empowered We recognize that staying ahead of tax law changes is crucial to achieving long-term financial stability. That’s why we’re committed to helping you every step of the way. If you found this information helpful, feel free to share it with friends or family. And as always, if you have a specific financial question, don’t hesitate to reach out . Together, we can navigate these changes and keep your financial journey on track.

Whitaker‑Myers Wealth Managers is proud to announce that David Gearhart , Associate Financial Advisor, has earned the distinguished Enrolled Agent (EA)  designation with the IRS. This credential positions David among a select group of professionals authorized to represent clients before the IRS—reinforcing the firm’s holistic approach to financial planning that fully integrates tax strategy and compliance. David’s attainment of the EA reflects both his dedication to professional excellence and the firm’s unwavering commitment to delivering tax-aware financial guidance. As an EA, David is now federally certified to prepare IRS-related documents, resolve tax disputes, and advise on complex issues ranging from retirement distributions to investment tax implications. “David’s achievement as an Enrolled Agent underscores Whitaker‑Myers Wealth Managers dedication to taking a truly comprehensive approach to financial planning,”  said John‑Mark Young , President of Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers. “In a world where taxes can have a significant impact on portfolio outcomes, having multiple EA's on our team, like David, allows us to serve our clients with deeper insight and greater confidence.” Echoing this sentiment, Timothy Hilterman, CFP® , Chief Financial Planning Officer at Whitaker‑Myers, remarked: “Earning the EA designation demonstrates David’s passion for equipping clients to make informed decisions by understanding not just investment performance, but tax consequences as well. This elevates our ability to provide integrated, fiduciary-first advice.” A Strategic Advantage for Clients Building tax planning into the fabric of financial advice is a hallmark of Whitaker‑Myers’ “heart of a teacher” philosophy. David’s EA designation ensures clients benefit in several key ways: IRS Representation  — Clients gain a trusted advisor to advocate on their behalf during audits or tax disputes. Optimized Tax Strategies  — Sophisticated guidance on retirement planning, capital gains management, tax-loss harvesting, and more. Informed Financial Decisions  — Integrated planning that aligns investment choices with tax implications, advancing long-term financial goals. What This Means for Financial Planning at Whitaker‑Myers David’s new credential enhances the firm’s team-based planning model, which already includes CFP® professionals, a CPA , and delegated financial planners. It solidifies the firm’s standing as a tax-savvy, fiduciary-first partner for clients —whether navigating retirement, managing wealth, or building generational legacies. About David Gearhart, EA A recent graduate from Ashland University with his MBA, David brings fresh energy and analytical rigor to the team. As an Enrolled Agent, he embodies the firm’s values of clarity, empowerment, and stewardship. His new role further equips clients to make tax-wise choices that positively impact their financial futures. To meet with David or any of our Financial Advisors, please click here .

In the world of investing, risk isn’t a single concept; it’s a spectrum. At its core, risk is divided into two main categories :   Unsystematic Risk These are risks specific to a company or industry, like a CEO scandal, a product recall, or a supply chain disruption. They’re unpredictable, but they can be managed. A good advisor will encourage you to diversify to minimize the impact of unsystematic risk.   Systematic Risk These are the big-picture forces—such as inflation, interest rates, recessions, or geopolitical conflicts —that affect the entire market. They can’t be diversified away. A good advisor will stay up to date on this macro-data, but won’t pretend they can see the future.   Why Clients Hire Advisors Mastering the Controllable People don’t hire advisors because they expect them to predict the future. They hire them because they know advisors are uniquely qualified to manage the risks that can be controlled.   Advisors bring insight, experience, and a strategic lens to unsystematic risk. They know how to build diversified portfolios, spot red flags in business models, and adjust plans when industries shift. More importantly, they keep a close eye on:   Business Risk Are a business’s earnings healthy? Are their management decisions poor, or even irrational?   Regulatory Risk Are there upcoming policy changes that could impact investments or tax strategies?   Liquidity Risk Will the client have access to cash when they need it most? These are the risks that can derail a financial plan—but with the right advisor, they’re often avoidable.   Systematic Risk: The Uncontrollable – and the Edge of Preparedness Then there’s the other side of the coin: systematic risk. No advisor can prevent a war, steer inflation, or set interest rates. These are forces outside of anyone’s control. But here’s the key: while we can’t control these events, we can help clients prepare for how they might impact their financial lives.   As investor Howard Marks wisely said, “You can’t predict. You can prepare.” That’s exactly what financial advisors focus on. We stay informed, vigilant, and ready to make adjustments when the landscape begins to shift. Whether it’s responding to rising interest rates, navigating inflationary trends, or managing risks during global uncertainty, we aim to keep clients positioned with purpose – even in the face of unpredictability.   Final Thought: The Power of Perspective In today’s fast-changing environment, vigilance is more than awareness – it’s about readiness. Financial advisors  analyze macroeconomic data, monitor policy developments, and keep a close eye on world events. Our role is to translate what’s happening into meaningful guidance. It’s not about predicting the next move; it’s about being prepared for a range of outcomes.   If you’re looking to bring more resilience and perspective into your financial plan, consider a complimentary consultation with a financial advisor . Let’s move forward with confidence – together.

You’ve probably seen the headlines: “The Dollar is Dying!” “Collapse is Coming!” It’s the same story every few years, usually when there’s some new global crisis, or the stock market takes a tumble. And while it’s smart to pay attention, it’s also smart to keep these fears in perspective. On February 2nd of this year, I created a video discussing four reasons why tariffs may be beneficial to US stocks and markets . On April 8th, that may have looked a little foolish, but time and patience have proven no inflation concerns have manifested themselves, select manufacturing is coming back to the United States, and we just cashed a check for $80 billion last month in new tariff revenues. Below you can see the CPI (consumer price index), the PPI (producer price index), and the US PCE (personal consumption expenditures), all falling near their 2% target. But too-late Jerome Powell and every other Wall Street economist will tell you it's coming, just wait and see. These are the same people that told us all about 20 of the last 3 recessions we've had in the US. I think their Cheerios' milk is constantly sour. CPI, PPI and PCE in 2025 YTD And their next trip up their bag - the US Dollar is dying or dead. Here's a chart of the US Dollar Index over the last five years. One big round trip. Meaning, nothing gained, nothing lost. US Dollar Index over the last five years That's too short, John-Mark. Be like Joe Biden - Build Back Better or be better - ok my apologies - let's look at 10 years. US Dollar Index over the last ten years Time for a Snickers? Satisfied? Look, I won’t sugarcoat it—America has challenges: rising debt, political dysfunction (as I write this today the Democrats are trying to stop a massive tax incentive for the middle class by reading line-by-line the 943 page document to delay the vote and put in jeporady the July 4th timeline, which is undoubtedly needed for tax advisors and financial planners like us so we can implement and plan around these changes), trade disputes. But the idea that the U.S. dollar is about to vanish from the world stage and trigger some doomsday scenario? That’s more hype than reality. Let’s break this down so you can see why the so-called “death of the dollar” is mostly an overblown narrative designed to scare you into bad decisions. Below are six reasons the dollar isn’t going anywhere anytime soon: 1. No Other Currency Comes Close People love to talk about China’s currency or the euro stepping in to replace the dollar. The truth? There’s no credible replacement. The euro  accounts for about 20% of global reserves. But Europe is politically divided, and their bond markets are fragmented. China’s renminbi  can’t freely move in and out of the country (capital controls), and the government manages it too tightly for the rest of the world to fully trust it. Other currencies like the yen, pound, or Canadian dollar are simply too small in scale. Until there’s a currency with the same deep markets, trust, and liquidity as the U.S. dollar, the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency remains secure. 2. The U.S. Economy Is Still the Biggest Show in Town The U.S. economy represents roughly a quarter of all global output . It’s powered by a combination of entrepreneurship, strong laws, and unmatched innovation. When things get rocky around the globe, investors don’t rush into Chinese bonds—they flock to the safety of U.S. Treasuries. The closest safe asset in my mind is the German bond, yet they like the size and scale to be the worlds reserve currency. Yes, America’s debt load is big—more than $36 (see chart below) trillion—but that doesn’t automatically mean collapse. The dollar’s reserve status actually allows the U.S. to borrow more cheaply than any other nation. And compared to Japan’s stagnation, China’s heavy-handed policies, or Europe’s slow growth, the U.S. remains the most stable, dynamic economy in the world (see point six below). The US Public Debt now stands at around $36 trillion 3. It’s Hard to Break Old Habits The dollar dominates because everyone uses it. In fact: About 88%  of all foreign exchange transactions involve dollars. Roughly 60%  of global trade and debt is denominated in dollars. Imagine trying to convince every central bank, multinational company, and investor on earth to switch to another currency overnight. Not going to happen. These network effects and the sheer inertia of global finance mean that even if the dollar’s role shrinks a bit over time, it will still be the backbone of the system for decades. Your grandkids are more justified in worrying about this than you are. It doesn't mean you shouldn't be proactive with your voting to ensure fiscally responsible people are put into positions of authority. 4. De-Dollarization Is Mostly Talk Yes, countries like Russia and China are experimenting with trading in their own currencies. But these efforts remain limited: China still owns about $2 trillion  in U.S. assets. Non-dollar payment systems are tiny compared to the dominant SWIFT network. Sure, the dollar’s share of reserves has declined from about 67% twenty years ago to around 58% now—but that’s gradual diversification, not collapse. 5. Short-Term Swings Aren’t Long-Term Trends Headlines about tariffs, sanctions, and Fed policy often fuel the “dollar death” story. For example, during the 2025 trade tensions, the dollar dipped about 9%. But guess what? It bounced back—like it always does. Long term, the dollar has been remarkably strong, rising about 40% against other major currencies between 2011 and 2022. Central banks still buy U.S. Treasuries because they’re liquid, safe, and backed by the world’s largest economy. US Dollar Index - April 2011 through December 2022 6. America’s Innovation Engine Keeps the Dollar Relevant At the end of the day, money follows productivity, innovation, and opportunity. And no country on earth has a stronger track record of reinventing itself than the United States. The U.S. leads in technology, biotech, artificial intelligence, and energy innovation —industries that are shaping the future of the global economy. The dollar is backed not just by today’s economy, but by the expectation that America will keep creating the next big thing. Venture capital, global talent, and entrepreneurship still flow into the U.S. at levels other nations can’t match. In short, the dollar remains king because it represents a country that keeps moving forward, even when it stumbles. As long as the U.S. stays at the forefront of innovation, the dollar will continue to be the currency the world trusts and uses. Why is the AI innovation happening in the US? Why are humans like robots, that will soon mow your lawn, wash your dishes, and provide companionship to those in nursing homes and other shut-in situations, being developed (chips), designed, and rolled out in the US? In Austin, Phoenix, and San Francisco, how can you safely drive from your work to your favorite restaurant and then back home, with a driverless car? It's because we have been blessed with innovation like the world has never seen, and we are about to get a significant level up, the likes of which we have only seen during the advent of the internet. According to industry expert Dan Ives, we're only in the second inning of the AI revolution—and don't let his creative attire fool you; this guy is the number one expert in U.S. AI and tech research. Watch a short video on that here. Why You Keep Hearing Doom and Gloom Let’s be honest: Fear sells. Negative headlines generate clicks. Pessimistic predictions feel “smart” because they sound cautious. Social media algorithms love to feed you the scariest takes. This is called negativity bias . We humans are wired to pay attention to bad news. In ancient times, it kept us alive—today, it just fuels anxiety. The Bottom Line for Investors Could the dollar’s share of global reserves slowly decline over the next few decades? Sure. But will it vanish overnight and plunge the world into chaos? Highly unlikely. The U.S. still has: The largest, most innovative economy The deepest capital markets The military strength and alliances that underpin trust in the dollar are likely the primary reason I didn't discuss it. We saw this strength manifested last Saturday evening. So if you’ve been tempted to pull your investments out of the market, hoard cash under the mattress, or rush into speculative alternatives because of scary headlines, take a breath . Over the long haul, the investors who stay focused, diversified, and patient are the ones who build wealth. At Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, we help clients plan through all the noise—good markets, bad markets, and all the media hype in between. Remember: Fear is not a strategy . Stay steady. Stay informed. And keep moving forward.

We are excited to share that John-Mark Young , President and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, has once again been recognized on AdvisorHub’s prestigious “ Advisors to Watch”  list for 2025 — marking his third consecutive year receiving this honor. AdvisorHub’s annual rankings, as described by Editor Tony Sirianni here , are based on modern metrics that reflect today’s wealth management profession. Advisors are evaluated across three key areas: Scale and quality of practice Year-over-year growth Overall professionalism To qualify, nominees must have at least seven years of experience, manage a minimum of $150 million in assets, and maintain a clean regulatory record. Notably, there are no fees for participation, and the ranking is open to all advisors and firms. John-Mark was one of only 11 RIA-based advisors recognized in Ohio and one of just 10 in Florida — two key markets where Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers serves clients and where John-Mark regularly spends time. What Is an RIA, and Why Does It Matter? As a Registered Investment Advisory (RIA) firm, Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers operates under a fiduciary standard — meaning our team is legally and ethically obligated to act in the best interest of our clients at all times. Unlike the broker-dealer model (often seen with firms like LPL or Raymond James) or bank investment platforms, RIA firms do not accept revenue-sharing payments from product providers, nor do they face corporate sales quotas. This independence allows us to provide fully objective advice that is truly centered on client outcomes — not firm profits. In short, we believe this model is superior because it prioritizes transparency, fiduciary responsibility , and client trust. A Word from Our Leadership Former (Retired) Chairman of Whitaker-Myers Group (Wealth Managers, Tax Advisors & Insurance ), Scott Allen, remarked: “It’s been inspiring to watch John-Mark earn this award three years running. His consistent leadership, deep commitment to clients, and dedication to building an outstanding team are what drive the growth and excellence of our firm year after year.” John-Mark added: “We are humbled by the trust our clients place in us. Every referral of a friend or family member never goes unnoticed or unappreciated. Our entire team sincerely thanks our clients — we pray for them every week and value them so much. This award is truly a reflection of the relationships we are blessed to build.” Looking ahead, the Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers team remains committed to delivering thoughtful, personalized financial planning and investment management — always grounded in faith, integrity, and a client-first mission.

Buying a home is an exciting prospect for all individuals who work hard and save their money.  Having land, property, and a dwelling that you can call yours is an opportunity many outside this wonderful country cannot afford to have.   But when should you buy?  People are often afraid to buy a home when prices are too high.  Others are nervous that their home prospects are too expensive for what they could get.  There is a lot of anxiety in such a monumental decision.   Let’s ensure you have a pulse on the current housing environment, so you know you’re in a position to make an informed decision.   Interest Rates Effect Rates Rates Rates.  You always hear about them on the news.  Interest rates are set by the Federal Reserve, which helps regulate the supply of money in the economy to combat things like inflation and other rapidly rising prices of goods, such as housing.   High interest rates deter people from buying homes they otherwise couldn’t afford. This raises the supply of homes naturally, which then brings demand back down, and subsequently lowers the prices of homes as people try to sell their properties.  If a house is on the market for too long and the owner needs to sell, then the buyer will likely get a better deal.   This is actually where we are now. Housing has remained flat over the last year, and in some cases, it has even decreased, as shown in the chart. However, interest rates are still currently in the high 6s, which is vastly different from 5 years ago when rates were in the mid 2s. This makes it more difficult for people to buy homes, as it would be difficult to afford the monthly payment with a higher rate.   When an interest rate is assigned to a home, that directly impacts your monthly payment.  The lower the rate, the lower your payment. The lower the rate, the more people can afford a house payment, which means demand for housing increases, and therefore, sellers can raise prices. It is a continuous dance of mediation by the Federal Reserve to help keep the playing field level.   Financial Situation - Baby Steps When saving for a home, ensure you have been following the baby steps properly.  Here is a reminder if you’re asking, “What are Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps ?”:   Step 1:  Save $1,000 for your starter emergency fund   Step 2:  Pay off all debt (except the mortgage) using the debt snowball method   Step 3:  Save 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund   Step 4: Invest 15% of your household income in retirement   Step 5:  Save for your children’s college fund   Step 6:  Pay off your home early   Step 7: Build wealth and give   Dave Ramsey has a concept called “Baby Step 3b,” where you save for a down payment on a home. This caveat exists so people can pause saving for retirement for a little bit in order to purchase a house. They can then be comfortable making house payments and get their 15% on track toward retirement savings .   Having no debt  allows your cash flow to increase significantly - with this freed-up cash flow, you can now aggressively save. Paying yourself first will enable you to take advantage of current interest rates and utilize savings vehicles, such as high-yield savings accounts , CDs, or money market accounts . These are all vehicles that pay a guaranteed interest rate, while not allowing your principal investment to drop, which is perfect for a housing fund.   Housing Price Environment The chart above shows the median sales prices of homes. I included this attachment for a couple of reasons: The prices of homes typically trend up. Prices of homes can rise and fall. Even during the 2007-2009 financial crisis, home prices dropped by only roughly 20%.   The price of homes fluctuates just like the stock market. When you buy a home, you are committing to a 30-year relationship, typically. (Or – as the Ramsey Solutions Team suggests , a 15-year relationship.)  Like most relationships, it’s all about the right time, right place, and the right situation - the same goes for buying a home.   So, when is the best time to buy? I wanted to write this because, when buying a home, there is never really a perfect time to buy. You can consider the housing price environment of today, as well as your interest rates.  The bottom line is that when buying a home, ensure you are financially and mentally prepared for the long-term commitment it entails.   Ensure you are in a position to ride out life events that could impact your ability to make mortgage payments.  Utilize your emergency fund and consider refinancing when rates drop.  Lastly, consider the financial freedom you’d have when paying off your home.   If you have questions and would like to discuss your financial situation with a financial advisor , please reach out to a member of our team today. They take a holistic approach to reviewing your financial situation to help you reach your financial goals.