U.S. electricity prices have surged over the past year, outpacing inflation and highlighting structural challenges in the power sector. National costs are up 5% year-over-year on average, although this figure masks that some regions are feeling the pain more than others. Prices in New Jersey, for example, have risen 22% in the past year. The surge has led utility bills to become a primary topic in the state's ongoing Governor's race. According to the New York Times, "electricity is the new eggs".

The S&P 500 hit an all-time high six days into a government shutdown. It seems nothing will slow this market down as long as three critical ingredients are in place: 1) easing monetary policy, 2) strong earnings growth, and 3) AI optimism. At least for now, weaker employment data, geo-politics, and weak consumer sentiment just doesn't matter.

During the third quarter of 2025, the S&P 500 rose nearly 8%, recorded 24 all-time high closes, and was never down more than 2%. Heading into the final quarter of the year we anticipate three major trends from the third quarter will continue to power the market’s steady ascension.

The economic data released on Friday, August 29th was in line with expectations. Headline Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE), the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, increased 2.6% year-over-year while Core PCE, which excludes food and energy prices, increased 2.9%. Personal income was up 0.4% compared to the previous month while personal spending increased 0.5%.

Jason Salmon, CFP®, Wealth Planner jsalmon@haverfordquality.com Unpacking the One Big Beautiful Bill Act After months [...]

The hype in Artificial Intelligence (AI), what many say, is a modern-day gold rush, is amassing trillions of dollars of investment. A recent UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) report projects the global AI market will grow from $189 billion in 2023 to $4.8 trillion by 2033; massive gains and insatiable demand is being seen in all corners of the industry.

During the final week of July, investors received a significant amount of news and data. Outlined below are four developments shaping market conditions in the near term, along with a reminder that, despite the news, it is almost always an opportune time to invest.

The stock market continues to trade near all-time highs in conjunction with strength in the U.S. economy. Despite persistent concerns about inflation pressures and slowing growth (i.e. stagflation), the data continues to tell a more constructive story— one of cautious optimism and a consumer that remains engaged.