In our year-end update, Dan reflects on the market year where early uncertainty gave way to stronger-than-expected growth. Both stocks and bonds delivered solid results, exceeding initial expectations as markets proved more resilient than expected.

Looking ahead, the economic outlook remains constructive with a low risk of recession, supported by continued spending. Dan also highlights that emerging risks remain, underscoring the importance of staying attentive in the year ahead.

Given recent market declines, we thought an update would be helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.

-Dan and Team ADK

In our latest market update, Dan discusses how the markets have performed throughout the year: both stocks and bonds have delivered positive returns—stocks have exceeded targets since April lows, while bonds are aligning with expected 5–7% gains.

Despite slower economic growth, Fed rate cuts are supporting a soft landing, and financial dashboards show few signs of recession. International valuations have risen while U.S. markets continue to trade at a premium amid a weakening dollar and tariff pressures, suggesting continued choppiness but overall optimism through late 2025.

In our latest market update, Dan unwraps the first half of 2025’s market moves— from geopolitical tensions and tariffs driving day-to-day volatility to our overall position in the market cycle. Our team maintains a consistent financial outlook, with expected volatility, positive stock returns, and moderate bond performance in the second half of the year.

Check out the latest market updates from Dan and Team ADK.

Dan breaks down recent market moves—from the peak on February 19th through a measured decline in early April and signs of recovery through May. He explains how ongoing trade tariff uncertainties with key global markets have impacted market positioning, and why our team is holding a risk-neutral stance amid slowing growth and unpredictable economic cycles.

March has tested the resilience of markets, wiping away the strong gains of January and February. Amid this choppiness, we're witnessing growth markets pull back while value remains steady. The bond market was up 2.75%.

As tariffs and trade uncertainties drive volatility, we see no recession risk in the next 12 months and only moderate likelihood over the next 2 years. Dive into our latest Market Update video to explore what’s next.

As we begin 2025, ADK wants to share our market update views for 2024 and 2025.

30+ years ago, I heard one of our top portfolio managers say, "When your party losses an election you think the markets will tank. When your party wins you think the markets will do great". He then went on to teach me Fed Policy, the economy and corporate earnings are the key variables. I have observed election risk can add fuel if something happens but is not the main catalyst to pre-election volatility. However, the few days after an election are driven more by the election being over than anything else.