Insights

For many approaching or in retirement, the portfolio becomes more than just a balance of stocks and bonds—it represents a cash flow lifeline and a potential legacy for future generations. So, it’s perfectly understandable to minimize anxiety, opting for stable returns and lower volatility. But what if that peace of mind comes at a cost? The cost of long-term financial opportunity? How can we balance these competing priorities?

This quarter’s market update from Chief Investment Officer Charles Rinehart, CFA, CAIA, the JIC Beyond the Numbers blog “The Comfort of Conservative Investing: Balancing Peace of Mind with Long-Term Growth” by Managing Director of Northeastern Ohio Market and Senior Portfolio Manager, Anthony Kure, CFP®, and, as always, catch up on all of your JIC employee news.

CIO, Charles Rinehart, CFA, CAIA, covers a whirlwind first half of 2025—from tariff shocks and geopolitical flare-ups to a major tax bill that could shape the years ahead. Despite the chaos, markets posted surprisingly strong returns, masking the risks still lurking beneath the surface. We also examine shifting investor sentiment and why now may be the time to stay alert, not complacent.