Senior Research Analyst Joe Abbott, CFA weighs in on Kroger’s fourth-quarter 2023 earnings report, noting that fiscal 2024 guidance looks solid. “Kroger stock soars after 4Q earnings, guidance exceed estimates.” Cincinnati Business Courier, 3/7/2024.
Managing Director and Portfolio Manager Brandon Zureick, CFA weighs in on the Federal Trade Commission’s attempt to block the acquisition of Albertsons by the Kroger Company. Noting how although there are strong arguments for the deal to go though, there are also points in favor for the FTC to shut it down. "Roadblock: Kroger is trying to get past the FTC’s efforts to halt its $24.6B acquisition of rival grocer Albertsons.” Cincinnati Business Courier, 3/6/2024.
Managing Director and Portfolio Manager Brandon Zureick, CFA discussed the Fed’s decision to keep rates steady at the most recent FOMC meeting with Spectrum News 1, noting that the Fed pushed back a bit on the notion they are going to be lowering rates in the very near term. “The Federal Reserve isn’t moving so fast on cutting rates.” Spectrum News 1, 2/4/2024.
CEO Jason Jackman, CFA spoke with Asset TV about the change in market sentiment, economic risks to watch in the new year, and the impact of elections on market performance. “What to Tell Clients Concerned about the 2024 Election.” Asset TV, 2/1/2024.
Managing Director and Portfolio Manager Brandon Zureick, CFA weighs in on how the large bank failures that occurred in early 2023 have continued to impact the banking industry. Noting how these failures may increase regulations on all banks moving forward. "Last year’s SVB Signature Bank failures are now costing Ohio banks hundreds of millions of dollars.” Cleveland.com, 1/26/2024.
Senior Research Analyst Bill Jung, CFA weighs in on Fifth Third Bancorp’s fourth-quarter earnings report, nothing how successful Fifth Third appears to be at managing the headwinds facing the banking industry. “Fifth Third CEO Tim Spence: Bank ‘in position to play offense’ when it comes to making loans in ‘24.” Cincinnati Business Courier, 1/23/2024.
Senior Research Analyst Bryan Andress, CFA weighs in on General Electric’s 2023 earnings release, noting the strong showing of GE’s Aerospace segment. “GE Aerospace, GE Vernova ‘ready to launch’ ahead of April spinoff.” Cincinnati Business Courier, 1/23/2024.
Senior Research Analyst Joe Abbott, CFA weighs in on Procter & Gamble’s final earnings report of 2023, emphasizing the growing significance of volume growth to investors. “P&G’s higher prices, productivity growth offset sluggish sales ahead of expected 2024 slowdown.” Cincinnati Business Courier, 1/23/2024.
Managing Director and Portfolio Manager Brandon Zureick, CFA discussed the interest rate outlook for 2024 with Spectrum News 1, noting that steady interest rates and slowing economic growth could bring positive developments for consumers. “Consumers May See Some Relief in 2024.” Spectrum News 1, 12/31/2023.
Portfolio Manager James Wineland, CFP®, CIMA®, AIF® spoke with Ideastream Public Media on retirement plans for small businesses. Setting up a 401(k) that is straightforward, manageable and affordable comes with its challenges for small business owners. James shares some crucial questions entrepreneurs should be considering when deciding the right plan. “Are retirement benefit plans worth the hassle for Northeast Ohio’s entrepreneurs?” Ideastream Public Media, 12/11/2023.
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On July 4th, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law, ushering in a mix of tax law extensions, new phaseouts, and planning opportunities. From new deductions, retained provisions from prior law, estate tax rules, and a new account type to save for children, here’s what pre-retirees and retirees need to know, why it matters and what to do.
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.
Jason Jackman, CFA, Chief Executive Officer of Johnson Investment Counsel, presented the Patrick Chong Memorial Scholarship to two outstanding students, Melina Busken and Gretchen Phelps.
Current and former P&G employees can learn more about their Profit Sharing Trust (PST) distribution options during this informative webinar. Former P&G Finance/Brand Management employee, Mike Stanis, CFA, CFP®, MBA, is a Portfolio Manager and the Procter and Gamble (P&G) Retirement Plans Director at JIC. He spent 17+ years with P&G and will share what he learned about transitioning from P&G so that you can make the best decisions for your family.
For many nearing retirement, the decision to purchase an annuity isn’t about returns—it’s about peace of mind. But what are you really paying for that feeling of safety? With annuity sales reaching record highs, it's time to unpack the psychological tradeoffs, hidden costs, and key risks.
Johnson Investment Counsel is pleased to announce six new shareholders to the firm. The shareholders include: Joshua Basinger, CTFA®, Alex Bey, CFA, David Christian, CFA, CFP®, Christopher Godby, CFA, Joseph Henderson, CLU®, CFP®, and James Wineland, CFP®, CIMA®, AIF®.
Timing your Social Security claim is a critical decision that impacts retirement cash flow, portfolio strategy, and long-term financial security. While delaying benefits can boost lifetime income, the right choice depends on personal health, lifestyle goals, and peace of mind—not just the numbers.
As the wealth management industry continues to consolidate, we remain unwavering in our mission: to deliver independent, client-first financial guidance, free from external pressures or competing interests.