Have you ever noticed that licensed professionals like tax advisors, doctors, attorneys, or dentists proudly display their designations after their name (CPA, MD, DDS, or Esq)?  These titles can provide instant assurance of their qualifications.  However, when it comes to financial advisors, the initials after their name can be a head-scratching alphabet soup.  You may see any of the following CFP® , CFA, ChFC, CLU, CIMA, Series 65, Series 7, etc. Each has its own significance and certification, but are some better than others to have?   The Designation Has Meaning Not all financial designations are created equal, and that’s where the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) certification stands apart.    Backed by a nonprofit organization, the CFP Board  ensures that financial planners are competent, ethical, and committed to putting your best interests first.  The CFP Board highlights the often confusing landscape of financial advisor titles in lighthearted commercials.  It’s a humorous point, but a serious point nonetheless.  With three CFP® practitioners on the Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers Team , here are 10 reasons we feel why hiring a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make:   Top 10 reasons to hire a CFP® Professional 1.      Fiduciary Responsibility A CFP® professional is required to act in your best interest at all times as a fiduciary with no hidden agendas or conflicts of interest.   2.      Ethical Standards A CFP®  professional must adhere to a strict code of ethics and is held accountable by the CFP Board .  The seven major principles required to abide by are: Integrity, Objectivity, Competence, Fairness, Confidentiality, Professionalism, and Diligence.   3.      Education and Training A CFP® professional must have at least a bachelor’s degree, over 6000 hours of professional experience, and have passed a rigorous exam requiring extensive preparation.   4.      Holistic Financial Planning While other designations have expertise in specific areas, a CFP® professional takes a comprehensive approach to your plan, including retirement, investing, budgeting, insurance, tax, and estate planning.   5.      Trusted Industry Reputation The CFP® certification is recognized as the standard amongst financial planners.  It is viewed by the financial planning world as the top designation to hold because of its holistic knowledge, standard of excellence, and ethical standards.   6.      Objective Advice Advisors may be incentivized by commission-based products, like annuities, for example.  This could potentially lead to a client ending up with a product that they don’t need or comprehend.  A CFP® professional will take the time to make sure you understand what your dollars are invested in and why they recommend each product.   7.      The CFP Board Like the American Medical Association for physicians and the American Bar Association for attorneys, they have a high standard for their professionals and hold the power to revoke the designation from a CFP® certificant. They field consumer complaints about their members to ensure they are still worthy of using the designation. When your advisor says they are the best fit for you, is it just their word or a national board backing them up on that claim?   8.      Change Happens A CFP® professional has to stay up-to-date with these changes and the economy continually. Having a professional with a constantly updated body of knowledge is essential to keep your finances up-to-date.   9.      Peace of Mind A CFP® professional will help navigate complex financial decisions, reassuring you that your money is being managed wisely and your future is on the right track.   10.  Dedication The CFP® exam is known to be challenging and time-consuming due to its rigorous curriculum and low pass rate.  This deters many advisors from taking it, but those who do earn their CFP® mark demonstrate a commitment to expertise and knowledge that extends to a career of dedication to their clients.      Choosing the right financial advisor  can significantly impact your financial future.  While there are countless titles and certifications, a CFP® practitioner stands out for their extensive knowledge, ethical obligations, and commitment to putting your best interests first.  The ideal client-advisor relationship should last for decades,  yet it is wise to compare your options periodically  to ensure your plan is in the right hands.    Our experienced team at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers  focuses on building holistic and customized plans for individuals.  With some of our advisors having earned the credentialed CFP® certification, or others currently pursuing the designation, we would be honored to serve you on your financial journey .

We learned last week that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were going to meet with a senior-level Chinese official in Switzerland to begin dialogues around trade negotiations. President Trump tweeted on Friday that 80% tariffs might be reasonable, setting the stage for a possible outcome of this meeting, and then news broke last night that progress was made and most of the tariffs would be paused. My guess was that markets would be soaring once the Sunday night futures opened, which was validated, and with that, all tariff-related losses have been erased. If you watched my video from earlier in April titled "The Markets Down, Now What?" , I pointed out with the help of Vanguard that most geopolitical stock market shocks are resolved quickly. Is this over? No, but it sure feels like it's trending in the correct direction. The recent trade announcement between the U.S. and China reverses many of the tariffs that rattled financial markets beginning in April. This agreement, which lasts 90 days, lowers U.S. tariff rates on China from 145% to 30%, and China’s rates on U.S. goods to 10%. Along with tariff pauses on other trading partners, and a newly announced trade deal with the U.K., markets are hopeful that a drawn-out trade war is now off the table. What does this changing market narrative mean for long-term investors? What markets dislike most are uncertainty and negative surprises. This is because markets often react to the worst-case scenarios immediately and adjust as more information becomes available. While the unexpected size and scope of the April 2 tariffs sparked a sharp market downturn, the recovery over the past several weeks has also been swift. Markets are close to where they started the year and slightly above their pre-April 2 tariff announcement levels. This is a pattern that follows many other historical examples in which recoveries can occur once there is greater clarity. Recent events are another reminder that maintaining a long-term investment perspective is important during periods of uncertainty. The U.S.-China agreement is a positive sign a broader deal can be reached Current total tariff rates and announced April 2nd reciprocal tariffs The latest tariff agreement between the U.S. and China is positive because it removes a significant source of market uncertainty. It sets the U.S. reciprocal tariff on Chinese goods to 10% while maintaining the 20% tariff related to the fentanyl crisis put in place earlier this year. While the situation is still evolving, this agreement paves the way for a longer-term trade deal between the world’s two largest economies and de-escalates tensions. So, while tariff rates are higher than in the past, the worst-case scenario is now less likely. With the benefit of hindsight, recent events mirror the trade tensions in 2018 and 2019 during the first Trump administration. In both cases, the administration’s goal has been to achieve new trade deals by using tariffs as a negotiating tool, with the stated aim of closing the U.S. trade deficit with major trading partners. Five years ago, this resulted in the “Phase One” trade agreement with China, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), and other deals. There are many intertwined objectives in these trade policies, including a focus on manufacturing jobs, protecting intellectual property, controlling immigration, and more. Today, the key difference is that the administration has gone much further with tariff threats than many investors and economists had anticipated. Still, the recently announced trade deal between the U.S. and the U.K. is evidence that previous patterns may apply here as well. That agreement sets a baseline 10% tariff rate on U.K. goods, with specific provisions allowing up to 100,000 imported cars at this level as well as exemptions for steel and aluminum. The economy has been resilient despite trade uncertainty Quarterly GDP growth rate (SAAR) and contributions Of course, new trade deals with China and many other countries are not yet final, and day-to-day headlines could continue to drive market swings, especially if previous tariff pauses expire. An important reason markets have focused so heavily on tariffs is the impact on inflation and economic growth. This was reflected in the first quarter’s GDP figure which showed a slight economic contraction as businesses stockpiled imported goods ahead of tariff deadlines. Greater clarity will likely help both consumers and businesses. In this environment, what else could go right? First, many economic indicators remain solid. The latest jobs report showed the economy added 177,000 positions in April, above expectations of 138,000. The unemployment rate held steady at 4.2%, continuing a period of stability that began last May. The strong job market helps to offset concerns that tariffs and uncertainty will impact consumer spending. Meanwhile, inflation continues its gradual deceleration toward the Fed's 2% target, with the latest Consumer Price Index figure coming in at 2.4% year-over-year. This deceleration has been supported by falling oil prices which recently reached four-year lows. Cheaper oil, driven in part by tariff-related volatility, helps to lower costs for consumers and can be a boost to the economy, all things equal. The recent U.S.-China agreement also reduces the pressure for immediate Fed policy changes. Market-based measures still expect the Fed to cut rates further this year, but these expectations have fallen to only two or three cuts, possibly beginning in July or September. The Fed, which recently kept rates steady between 4.25% and 4.5%, appears to be taking a “wait-and-see” approach, rather than reacting to near-term trade, market, and economic news. Market recoveries often occur when they’re least expected S&P 500 total returns since World War 2 While there are still many risks to the market, the last several weeks show how quickly the narrative can change. By their very nature, markets anticipate worst-case scenarios. During times of negative headlines and market pullbacks, it’s difficult to imagine that the market will ever recover. So, while understanding risks is always prudent, it should not come at the expense of long-term portfolio positioning. The accompanying chart shows how market corrections have behaved since World War II. While the average correction experiences a decline of 14%, it often recovers in as little as four months. Most importantly, it can often rebound when it’s least expected, as we’ve experienced following recent progress on trade negotiations. Those investors who overreact to early signs of volatility may find that they are not appropriately positioned, especially with respect to their financial goals. Finally, while markets are surging on news of the paused tariffs and improving trade negotiations, it's a timely reminder of a key Dave Ramsey principle: don't let fear drive your financial decisions. Just as Ramsey warns against reacting emotionally to debt or market hype, long-term investors should avoid panicking in the face of volatility. The recent market correction—swiftly followed by recovery—proves once again that staying the course, much like sticking to a debt-free plan or emergency fund strategy, positions you to weather storms and come out stronger. Ramsey often says, “Live like no one else now, so later you can live and give like no one else,” and that includes staying invested and focused even when headlines stir short-term anxiety. The bottom line? The latest U.S.-China trade announcement has lowered market uncertainty and recession concerns. For long-term investors, this reinforces the value of maintaining perspective during periods of market turbulence rather than reacting to short-term volatility. Have a plan, stick to your plan and when market uncertainty presents itself, should you have the desire to do something, talk to your Financial Advisor.

A few weeks ago, one of our excellent Financial Advisors, Jake Buckwalter , wrote a piece titled, The U.S. National Debt - Can it be Fixed? You can read that article here . The article inspired me, partly because I, too, have been thinking a lot about the national debt. There really isn't anything one person can do to try and fix this, and if there were one, he (Elon Musk) and the President are currently on a time-out with each other. However, it's my job to be optimistic and find the path forward even in bad situations. If the worst-case scenario plays out, it doesn't matter what advice I or Ray Dalio (the guy that got one big crash right and has been calling for more and more ever since) tell you, you're financially screwed! To be clear, economically and spiritually are two very different things, and that, my friends, is the actual safe harbor in the midst of the US collapsing because of its debt situation. Make sure today, yes today, that your relationship is right with Jesus Christ - that He is the reason your sins have been atoned - but I promise you, I highly doubt He will save you financially if the US government collapses, and that's ok - read Romans 8:28 - you probably already have and put it to memory like I have. So, back to being optimistic. It's my job to point you to the way that this all becomes ok for your kids and grandkids because most likely it's not a baby boomer problem. So, how does the famous Winston Churchill saying, "You can depend on Americans to do the right thing. But only after they have exhausted every other possibility," come to reality regarding the US debt situation? As Jake mentioned two weeks ago, news headlines are flashing with figures like $36 trillion in national debt and a 120% debt-to-GDP ratio; it’s easy to assume the United States is on the brink of a fiscal crisis. But dig deeper, and you’ll find a powerful counter-narrative: a bull case for America’s debt position that draws from the strength of our national assets, global leadership, and future productivity. 1. America’s Hidden Balance Sheet: More Than Just Liabilities Yes, debt is high. But we often forget the other side of the ledger. Only once in a conversation with my favorite private equity folks have I actually heard someone even bring this up. Why? Probably because this doesn't sell on CNBC and Fox Business. As Jake mentioned, our debt situation is like having a $75,000 income and a $500,000 load of debt. That's kinda crazy - although because the US is not a household and is a sovereign nation, some would argue it's not a good comparison because a sovereign nation technically never needs to save for retirement, pay down debt (just stop taking more out), amongst other significant differences. But then it's also like saying we have $1,000,000 of assets as well. It might be painful to release those assets, maybe they are better utilized (rent), monetized (oil & gas leases), or, if nothing else, just sold for housing (we are so short on housing and we need land to develop for housing). Just don't forget that all these assets below are significant in terms of their value. The United States holds an extraordinary set of tangible and strategic assets: Federal Land : Over 640 million acres of federally owned land, including energy-rich territories. Infrastructure : World-class highways, ports, and energy grids. Military Superiority : A global strategic asset that underpins international trade and reserve currency status. Intellectual Property : The U.S. dominates in patents, innovation, biotech, and semiconductors. These are real economic moats. They aren't all listed on a government balance sheet, but they add enormous intrinsic value to the country's long-term fiscal health. 2. The Coming AI Productivity Boom According to analysts like Tom Lee of FS Insights and Dan Ives of Wedbush Securities , the U.S. is on the cusp of an economic transformation driven by artificial intelligence. In a few short years, you're going to have a Tesla Optimus that will wash your dishes, tidy your bedroom, mow your lawn, replace your oil, and maybe provide companionship to those who need it. This is real Star Wars-type stuff here, and I'm not kidding, it's gonna be here before my daughter graduates high school (she is a freshman). How many of you, like me, actually enjoy flying because you can be productive (I won't lie, sometimes entertained) while traveling. What if your hour to and from work commute was now productivity time, because of self-driving? Take a trip to a place like Phoenix, and you'll see the future in action as self-driving cars are already shuffling us around. AI is not just a Silicon Valley talking point. It has real potential to: Automate white-collar work Raise GDP by 0.5% to 1.5% annually Improve corporate margins and tax receipts Much like the internet boom of the 1990s, AI could usher in a new productivity cycle that helps us grow out of our debt load. 3. The Dollar Remains the Global Reserve Currency Despite America’s debt, the world still trusts the U.S. dollar: It accounts for roughly 60% of global foreign exchange reserves U.S. Treasuries remain the safest and most liquid assets globally In times of crisis, money flows into  the U.S., not out This gives the U.S. an unparalleled borrowing advantage and flexibility that other nations simply don’t have. 4. Debt Service Is Still Manageable Even with higher interest rates, debt service costs remain around 3.1% of GDP, far below levels seen in the 1980s. Much of our debt was issued at low interest rates and locked in for the long term, giving us breathing room and time to figure this out. This is not a crisis today as some would have you think (I'm looking at you, Rand Paul), but fiscal discipline does need to reenter the halls of Congress. As inflation cools and rates normalize, the cost of servicing debt could stabilize or even decline. 5. Nominal GDP Growth and Policy Adaptation Post-COVID fiscal numbers are distorted by extraordinary stimulus spending. As the economy normalizes, tax revenues improve, and nominal GDP continues to grow, the debt-to-GDP ratio could plateau or decline without drastic policy shifts. The government also has options: spending restraint, revenue adjustments, or reforming entitlements. America’s adaptability is one of its greatest fiscal strengths. In Summary: A Nation Positioned for Resilience The debt is large, but so is the U.S. economy’s capacity to innovate, adapt, and grow. With unmatched assets, a dominant global currency, and the potential for an AI-driven productivity renaissance, the bull case for America’s debt position is real. This doesn’t mean we ignore fiscal responsibility. But it does mean we can view our nation’s debt through a more balanced and hopeful lens—one that prioritizes growth, innovation, and intelligent policy over fear. Proverbs 21:5 tells us, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty". I was in Atlanta a few months ago and, by way of chance, got to listen to a former Clinton finance cabinet member. He said, "You know how we balanced the budget under President Clinton? We just stopped spending more and let the economy catch up." Sentor Ron Johnson, is asking the right questions, how and why are we not able to return to a 2020 level of spending, considering the tremendous growth in tax receiopts we've seen since then? He says we need to sit down, go line by line, and spend time figuring this out, and stop passing bills we never read. Wow - passing bills you never read (because they are too long and given just hours before a vote) seems to be the definition of "everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty". Isaiah 33:6, "He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure"

Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers proudly announces that Kelly Taylor , our esteemed Chief Compliance Officer, has earned the Investment Adviser Certified Compliance Professional (IACCP®) designation. This achievement underscores Kelly's dedication to upholding the highest standards of regulatory compliance and her unwavering commitment to our clients' best interests. The IACCP® designation, co-sponsored by COMPLY and the Investment Adviser Association (IAA), is a prestigious credential for compliance professionals in the investment advisory industry. To attain this designation, candidates must complete 17 required compliance courses, 3 elective courses, submit an ethics assessment and statement, possess two years of relevant work experience, and pass a certifying examination . This rigorous program ensures that designees have a comprehensive understanding of investment adviser regulatory obligations and best practices. Kelly has been Whitaker-Myers Wealth Manager's longest-standing Chief Compliance Officer and is respected by her peers and coworkers. Her expertise and leadership have been instrumental in developing and maintaining our firm's robust compliance program. Earning the IACCP® designation further enhances her ability to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and reinforces our firm's commitment to a culture of compliance. At Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, we believe that a strong compliance framework is essential to delivering exceptional service to our clients. Our dedicated compliance team, led by Kelly, ensures that we adhere to all SEC regulations and industry best practices. This proactive approach to compliance allows us to focus on our clients' financial goals with confidence, knowing that we are operating with integrity and transparency. We congratulate Kelly Taylor on this significant accomplishment and look forward to her continued contributions to our firm's success and our clients' trust.

We are thrilled to announce that John-Mark Young, President and Chief Investment Officer at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, has officially earned the Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®)  certification—one of the most respected and rigorous designations in the financial planning profession. John-Mark's achievement comes after an intensive 14-month journey of dedicated study and preparation. Passing the CFP® exam is no small feat; it is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence in financial planning and client service. The CFP® certification , administered by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards , Inc. (CFP Board), identifies financial professionals who have met high standards of competency and ethics. As a CFP® professional, John-Mark has demonstrated expertise across the core pillars of comprehensive financial planning, including investments, tax planning, retirement, estate planning, insurance, and more. According to the CFP Board, individuals who earn the right to use the CFP® certification marks must meet “rigorous professional standards and have agreed to adhere to the principles of integrity, objectivity, competence, fairness, confidentiality, professionalism, and diligence when dealing with clients.” The CFP Board’s mission is to benefit the public by upholding the CFP® certification as the recognized standard of excellence for competent and ethical financial planning. John-Mark’s pursuit of the CFP® designation reflects the same heart and vision that guide Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers—putting people first, operating with integrity, and delivering financial guidance that is both trustworthy and transformative. We are proud to celebrate this milestone with John-Mark and look forward to the continued impact he will make in the lives of our clients and our broader community. Congratulations, John-Mark!

At Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers , we are proud to recognize Associate Financial Advisor Clay Reynolds for earning the prestigious Enrolled Agent (EA) designation  from the IRS. This milestone represents Clay’s continued dedication to serving clients with excellence and integrity and expands the depth of tax expertise available to those we serve. As an Enrolled Agent , Clay is now federally authorized to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service—an accomplishment that requires passing a rigorous three-part examination covering individual and business tax returns, ethics, and IRS procedures. This designation enhances Clay’s already well-rounded skill set, allowing him to help clients navigate increasingly complex financial landscapes with even greater confidence and clarity. Clay understands that truly effective financial planning requires more than just investment recommendations—it requires a tax-smart strategy that helps clients keep more of what they earn. Whether working on Roth conversion strategies, retirement withdrawal planning, or tax-efficient portfolio construction, Clay’s expanded capabilities will allow him to deliver even more value to the families he serves. As an Associate Advisor  and integral member of one of our Dave Ramsey-endorsed SmartVestor Pro teams, Clay brings a heart for service and a passion for teaching. A graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University , Clay studied Financial Planning and Business Administration through a CFP® Board-Registered Program. His time at MVNU, where he also competed in cross country and track, helped shape his disciplined, others-first approach to both life and advising. His commitment to ongoing professional development and his growing role at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is a testament to the culture of excellence we strive to foster throughout our firm. Please join us in congratulating Clay on this significant professional achievement. We’re excited for the many ways this new designation will allow him to serve clients at an even higher level—because at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, we believe in growing with purpose, so we can help others live with purpose.

John-Mark Young , President & Co-Chief Investment Officer at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers, has been named to the prestigious Forbes  list of Top In-State Wealth Advisors  for 2025. This honor reflects John-Mark’s deep commitment to transforming the lives of his clients through principled financial planning and heartfelt service. The Forbes  ranking , developed in partnership with SHOOK Research, is known for its rigorous selection process. It emphasizes both quantitative excellence and the qualitative impact advisors have on their clients’ lives. Out of nearly 49,000 nominations nationwide, only a small percentage of advisors are selected after extensive telephone and in-person interviews, evaluation of compliance records, and thorough reviews of business practices and service models. With over a decade of experience and a growing list of credentials—including AIF®, ChFC®, CKA®, RICP®, RMA®, NSSA®, and an advanced certificate in blockchain and digital assets—John-Mark has earned a reputation for leadership, integrity, and excellence. His vision for financial planning goes beyond the balance sheet; it’s about helping families steward their resources in a way that aligns with their values, priorities, and purpose. In receiving this award, John-Mark is quick to shift the spotlight to others. “This is not a solo achievement,” he shared. “I’m incredibly grateful to the amazing team at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers   who share the same passion for client impact, integrity, and stewardship. They are the engine behind everything we do.” He also extended sincere appreciation to the team at Ramsey Solutions , noting, “Our missions align so closely—helping everyday families experience freedom, clarity, and peace with their finances. It’s an honor to serve alongside such a values-driven organization.” John-Mark also acknowledges the foundational support of his wife, Megan, who he calls “the cornerstone of our family.” Her encouragement and faith give him the strength to lead both at home and in the office. “Megan’s unwavering support and belief in me allows me to be the husband, father, and leader I’m called to be. I simply couldn’t do this without her.” This recognition from Forbes  is not just a professional milestone—it’s a reflection of a life and career built on purpose, service, and a desire to make a difference. John-Mark’s story is a reminder that great financial advice isn’t just about smart investing—it’s about building relationships, empowering families, and walking with clients through every stage of life. Congratulations, John-Mark, on this well-earned achievement and the lasting legacy you’re creating through Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers.

We understand the markets when they are moving around in big swings can be exhilarating when they go up and painful when they go down. Please enjoy these verses that I memorized and used when going through my Certified Kingdom Advisors designation. The Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) designation equipped me with the tools and training to provide financial advice that aligns with Biblical principles. It’s not just about managing money—it’s about stewardship, contentment, and honoring God with every financial decision. This designation has deepened my understanding of Scripture as it relates to personal finance and enables me to integrate faith and wisdom in a way that brings eternal perspective to everyday planning. As a CKA®, I help clients make choices that are not only financially sound but also spiritually grounded, ensuring their plans reflect both Biblical truth and practical strategy, incluidng during a 10-20-30% tariff market meltdown. Isaiah 41:10-13 (ESV) 10   Fear not, for I am with you;be not dismayed, for I am your God;I will strengthen you, I will help you,I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 11   Behold, all who are incensed against youshall be put to shame and confounded;those who strive against youshall be as nothing and shall perish. 12   You shall seek those who contend with you,but you shall not find them;those who war against youshall be as nothing at all. 13   For I, the Lord your God,hold your right hand;it is I who say to you, “Fear not,I am the one who helps you.” Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV) 6   Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7   And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Psalm 55:22 (ESV) Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you;he will never permit the righteous to be moved. Matthew 6:25–34 (ESV) 25   “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26   Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27   And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28   And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29   yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30   But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31   Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32   For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33   But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34   Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV) 6   Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7   casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Psalm 94:17–19 (ESV) 17   If the Lord had not been my help,my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. 18   When I thought, “My foot slips,”your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. 19   When the cares of my heart are many,your consolations cheer my soul. Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV) 28   Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29   Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30   For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV) 5   Trust in the Lord with all your heart,and do not lean on your own understanding. 6   In all your ways acknowledge him,and he will make straight your paths. 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (ESV) 9   But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10   For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Romans 8:38–39 (ESV) 38   For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39   nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Psalm 23:1–6 (ESV) 1   The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2   He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3   He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4   Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5   You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6   Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Romans 15:13 (ESV) May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Jeremiah 17:7–8 (ESV) 7   Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. 8   He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.

Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers is excited to announce the promotion of Summit Puri  to Co-Chief Investment Officer . In this new role, Summit will work alongside President and Chief Investment Officer John-Mark Young , helping guide the firm’s portfolio construction, monitoring, and research initiatives as the company continues its mission to deliver world-class financial planning and investment management solutions. This promotion is the culmination of a long-term vision that began in early 2024. Over the past year, Summit immersed himself in the firm’s investment philosophy, took on internal research projects, and launched the popular “ Summit’s Investment Corner ”—a recurring internal and external insight series designed to deepen understanding of current market dynamics. To further validate his growing expertise, Summit recently completed the Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®)  designation through the Investment & Wealth Institute , taught by Yale University faculty . Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious designations in the industry, the CIMA® equips professionals to blend theory and practice at the highest level of investment consulting. In the coming years, Summit plans to continue his investment education by pursuing the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®)  designation. In his new role, Summit will take a lead in overseeing and enhancing the firm’s core equity models. He is already spearheading initiatives focused on reducing investment costs, increasing portfolio diversification , and maintaining risk-adjusted return objectives . Beginning in April , clients and advisors will also benefit from quarterly portfolio summaries  authored by Summit, which will include: Executive summaries of portfolio performance Highlights of key contributors and detractors Comparative returns over 1, 3, 5, and 10-year periods versus the firm’s benchmark (aligned with Dave Ramsey’s philosophy ) As part of this enhanced investment process, Summit also leads the Whitaker-Myers’ internal Investment Committee , which now meets monthly to review portfolio allocations and discuss market trends. Advisors and team members will receive monthly summaries  of these meetings, creating a new layer of transparency and ensuring that every investment decision is grounded in conviction—even during periods of underperformance. “Summit’s growth and leadership in our investment process have been outstanding,” said John-Mark Young, President and CIO of Whitaker-Myers. “This promotion reflects both his hard work and our firm’s long-term strategy to build a research-driven, advisor-supported, and client-focused investment platform. We’re excited for the impact he will continue to make.” Please join us in congratulating Summit Puri on this well-earned promotion!

The 19th century author Balzac wrote that “our worst misfortunes never happen, and most miseries lie in anticipation.” This quote perfectly captures 2024, a year of major market, economic, and political concerns for many investors. Worries over a “hard landing” recession, market pullbacks, election turmoil, and more drove market sentiment to extremes. Yet, as we approach the end of the year, many of the miseries that investors feared did not take place. As a matter of fact, they almost never do. Instead, the S&P 500 is near record levels, inflation is subsiding, the economy is growing steadily, and the Fed has begun to cut interest rates. This is a reminder that excessive worry can lead investors to make decisions that may not serve their long-term interests. I've often quoted to clients during times of stress and fear Philippians 4:6-7 , "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds, Christ Jesus." If the past few years have been about extremes – the bear markets of 2020 and 2022, compared to the sharp rebounds in 2021, 2023, and 2024 – then 2025 should be about regaining balance. This is as much about investor emotion as it is about the economic data. History shows that those who can maintain a disciplined, long-term approach are better positioned to achieve financial success. This will only grow in importance in the coming year. Stock market valuations are well above average, the path of interest rates is now uncertain after last week, doubts about artificial intelligence are emerging, and geopolitical risks are escalating in some parts of the world and de-escalating in others. There will likely be many more unforeseen events that will heighten investor concerns. Fortunately, the lessons of the past year can guide financial decisions in 2025 and beyond. Below, we present five important insights that can provide investors with perspective even when the world seems uncertain and other investors fear the worst. 1. A stronger-than-expected economy has supported all asset classes A year ago, investors spent much of their time worrying about a “hard landing” as the Fed kept rates high to fight inflation. Fortunately, this never materialized. Instead, inflation is returning to pre-pandemic levels, the job market is healthy, and economic growth is steady. Few investors expected such a positive scenario twelve months ago. The Consumer Price Index, a measure of inflation, has slowed to only 2.6% year-over-year. Unemployment remains low at only 4.2%, and 2.3 million new jobs have been created over the past twelve months. GDP growth, at 2.8% in the third quarter, has been stronger than many economists anticipated. All these are stats you can be updated weekly on by listening to our Investment Research Analyst Summit Puri, on his incredible weekly video and podcast, What We Learned in the Markets . This economic expansion has helped to propel many asset classes. U.S. stock market indices are near all-time highs, international stocks have continued to rise albeit at a slower pace, and bonds have performed better in recent weeks, with interest rates moderating. Gold is near record levels due to demand from investors and central banks. Bitcoin has also risen to historic highs following the presidential election, and it has finally topped 100,000. This does not mean there are no challenges ahead. Consumer spending could slow as excess savings are spent, and debt levels are high for both households and businesses. Assets that have risen sharply could experience greater volatility as well. In times like these, focusing on fundamentals such as earnings and valuations will be important. 2. Expensive stock market valuations underscore the need for portfolio management and a trusted advisor One reason for higher stock prices is the strength of corporate America. Corporate earnings have grown 8.6% over the past twelve months, rising to $236 per share for the S&P 500. However, the fact that the stock market has risen far more than earnings means that valuations have increased. The price-to-earnings ratio is 22.3, meaning that investors are paying $22.30 today for every dollar of future earnings. This is well above the historical average of 15.7, and is nearing the historic peak of 24.5 during the dot-com bubble. Valuations matter because paying a higher price today means, all else equal, a lower return in the future. For investors, this has two implications. First, it’s important to construct portfolios by balancing stocks with other asset classes such as bonds and international investments. Second, with stock market indices at historically expensive levels, it’s critical to focus on more attractive parts of the markets. For example, while artificial intelligence stocks have driven market returns over the past two years, many other parts of the market have performed well recently. Year to date, all eleven sectors have generated positive gains. Given that it is difficult to predict which sectors may outperform each year, having an appropriate allocation to many parts of the market can help to stabilize portfolios. This is one reason why we as a firm have been optimistic about something like the Vaneck Wide MOAT ETF (MOAT) . Here, the fund is looking towards the future by allocating capital towards companies with sustainable competitive advantages (the Moat) while quantifying if those advantages will last 20 years or more (the Wide). Additionally, they run screens around their valuations to try and allocate capital to those companies with wide moats, yet their future growth through those moats is not priced in completely. While not perfect, this has balanced the top heavy-weighted S&P 500, while delivering long-term Alpha through quality stock selection and low cost. Everyone can do math, so identifying high valuations in and of themselves is not an advantage. However, companies with sustainable competitive advantages with a sensible valuation may be advantageous. 3. The Fed is expected to cut rates further The Fed began to cut policy rates in September after months of investor speculation. So far, the Fed has lowered rates by one full percentage point, and according to our Summit Puri's last video, the markets are currently expecting one or two more additional cuts by the end of 2025. This is less than what we thought about one short month ago, hence the somewhat orderly repricing we saw in the markets last week. The timing and magnitude of these rate cuts remain uncertain and will depend on the economic data. Regardless, the monetary policy headwinds that began in 2022 are now turning into tailwinds. Just as higher rates slowed economic growth and led to investor concerns, lower rates can help to stimulate the economy, supporting both corporate earnings and possibly stock market returns in the long run. After a few challenging years, the easing of monetary policy may also be positive for bonds as inflation and economic growth potentially enter a more stable period. If short-term rates trend lower and longer-term rates remain steady, the prices of many bonds could benefit while still offering attractive yields. This environment may present opportunities for diversified investors to generate both income and growth. For investors, what matters is not trying to guess each move by the Fed, but the overall path of rates. With greater clarity and guidance around Fed policy, the market’s attention may shift back to specific policies by the incoming Trump administration. 4. Political focus will shift from the election to policy Presidential politics also clouded markets leading up to election day in November. Since then, the stock market has rallied due to the lifting of policy uncertainty, and the hopes that the incoming administration will create a pro-growth environment. While politics are important in our personal lives, the reality is that the economy and stock market have performed well across both Democratic and Republican presidencies over the past century. When it comes to investing, business cycles matter more than who occupies the White House, and they are driven by many factors beyond politics. In 2025, investors should put politics aside as they construct their portfolios and financial plans. Taxes , for instance, are clearer after the election since it is likely that most provisions of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will be extended. This affects individual income tax rates, corporate tax rates, estate taxes, and much more. As is always the case, working with a trusted advisor is the best way to ensure that your financial strategy considers tax implications and changing market conditions. This does not mean that politics will be out of the spotlight in the coming months. Issues such as trade wars and the budget deficit will continue to worry investors. On trade, the new administration is expected to raise tariffs across many trading partners, especially China. However, it’s important to remember that the worst-case predictions during the first Trump administration never materialized, and many tariffs were continued during the Biden administration. When it comes to debt ceilings and the growing federal deficit, there are no simple solutions. The national debt has grown to $36 trillion with no signs of slowing. Without a sustainable path, interest payments on the federal debt will continue to rise, credit rating agencies may continue to question the quality of U.S. debt, and the role of the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency could become uncertain. Without minimizing the severity of this topic, it’s important to recognize that we are not at a tipping point just yet, and markets have historically performed well regardless of the level of the deficit and national debt. 5. Long-term thinking will be key to success in 2025 and beyond Perhaps the most important lesson of 2024 is that markets can perform well despite investors’ worst fears. For example, market pullbacks in April and August this year may have led some investors astray despite positive gains throughout the year. Markets have shown remarkable resilience over the past twelve months, supported by economic growth, innovation, and positive trends across many asset classes. It’s important to celebrate these positive outcomes while also remaining vigilant and focused on the long term. The accompanying chart shows the value of a long-term perspective. History reveals that true wealth is created not over months but over years and decades. Even for those already in retirement, a longer-term perspective allows investors to put short-term events in context and make productive decisions. The bottom line? As the year comes to a close, we can celebrate a strong year for markets. In 2025, investors should focus on finding balance in their portfolios. This means making sure your stocks have the recommended growth, growth & income, aggressive growth and international allocation we typically recommend. If you're close to your goals or retirement, make sure you have placed non-correlated assets such as real estate, bonds and cash into your portfolio mix and talk to a qualified financial advisor . History shows that this is the best way to manage unforeseen events, while staying on track to achieve long-term financial goals.

The repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) marks a significant milestone in the fight for Social Security fairness. For decades, these provisions have reduced Social Security benefits for millions of public servants, including teachers, police officers, and firefighters, who also earned pensions from government jobs not covered by Social Security. Their elimination signals a step toward equity and economic security for retirees.   The WEP, enacted in 1983, aimed to prevent "double-dipping" by individuals who worked in jobs that did not pay into Social Security while also earning substantial benefits from Social Security-covered employment. However, its formula disproportionately reduced benefits for low- and middle-income retirees, penalizing workers who spent part of their careers in public service.   Similarly, the GPO , established in 1977, reduced Social Security spousal or survivor benefits by two-thirds of the recipient's public pension. This offset disproportionately affected women, many of whom relied on spousal benefits to supplement their retirement income. In some cases, the GPO entirely eliminated these benefits, leaving retirees with limited financial resources.   The repeal of these provisions addresses longstanding concerns about fairness and economic disparity. Advocates for the repeal, including unions and retiree organizations, argued that WEP and GPO unfairly penalized public servants who contributed to their communities and earned their benefits.   The change comes as part of broader efforts to modernize Social Security and ensure it remains a robust safety net for all workers. By repealing WEP and GPO, lawmakers have restored fairness and financial stability to millions of retirees and their families.   As the repeal takes effect, retirees impacted by WEP and GPO will see a meaningful increase in their benefits. This will help secure a more dignified retirement for those who dedicated their lives to serving the public. As of this article's writing, the Bill still needs to be signed by President Biden. Additionally, the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, has estimated that this bill will cost Social Security $196 billion over a decade, and the Congressional Budget Office thinks it will speed up Social Security's insolvency by six months . As Dave Ramsey says, Social Security is the cherry on top of your retirement sundae. Thus, one should always strive to pay off all their debt, using the debt snowball (Baby Step 2), create a source of margin so they don't go back into debt (Baby Step 3 - Emergency Fund), and then save 15% of their income towards company-sponsored retirement plans, like your 401(k) and if eligible a Roth IRA. Our Financial Advisors are always ready to help you take that next step toward retirement security.

The Homestead Tax Exemption is a legal benefit available in most states, which reduces property tax reduction on homeowners’ primary residence and protection from creditors following the death of a spouse or declaration of bankruptcy. The exemption can only be applied to your primary residence, and while some states offer it to every homeowner, others have specific requirements that must be met, which vary from state to state. Some of these are the value of your home, income level, age, whether or not you are a veteran, or if the individual has a disability. In some states, the exemption is automatically applied, while in others, you must apply. In this article, we will look at the benefits of the exemption, the qualifying criteria, and how to apply for it. Benefits There are two benefits for the Homestead Tax Exception that we will dive into each individually and give an example of how the exemption benefits you.   Property Tax Reduction The main benefit of the Homestead Exemption is reducing the property taxes owed on the homeowner's primary residence. For example, if your home is valued at $200,000 and your state’s property taxes are based on your home’s assessed value with an assessment ratio of 35%, your home's assessed value would be $70,000. With a 1.5% tax rate, you would pay $1,050 in property taxes. In this example, we will say you are eligible for a $50,000 deduction. After applying for the Homestead Exemption, your home's assessed value would now be $52,500 ($150,000 x 35%). With the same 1.5% tax rate, your property taxes would now be reduced to $787.50. That is a $262.50 yearly savings. Protection from Creditors Another benefit of the Homestead Exemption is protection from unsecured creditors. This only applies to the equity in your home, not the home's assessed value. There is also a limit to how much equity you can have in your home, typically around $40,000 in most states. Requirements Example As mentioned, eligibility requirements vary from state to state. In Ohio, applicants must be at least 65 years old on January 1st in the year they are applying or be permanently disabled, in which case age would not be a factor. There is also a limit on total household income. For 2024, the limit is $40,500, including all sources such as wages, pensions, and social security.   How to Apply The form to apply is called the “Homestead Exemption Application (Form DTE 105A)”. Most counties will have a downloadable application on the county auditor’s website, or you can pick up a physical form from their office. In addition to your basic information, you will need to provide all of the following that apply to you: Proof of age  (e.g., a birth certificate or driver’s license) Proof of disability  (e.g., a statement from a medical professional if applying based on disability) Income verification  (e.g., tax returns, W-2s, Social Security statements) Veterans’ documentation  (e.g., VA disability certification) Once completed, you can submit the form to your county auditor’s office in person or online (if they allow it). After submitting, you will also want to check if you must reapply each year or if they automatically apply it once accepted.   Conclusion If you are unsure or think you may qualify for the Homestead Exemption, contact your financial advisor to start the conversation. If you do not have a financial advisor, we have a team at Whitaker-Myers Wealth Managers  with the heart of a teacher who can help explain how this could benefit you. Along with a CPA on staff , you have a team to answer any of your questions and help you apply if you qualify.