Weekly Market Recap: Insights from Mission Financial Planners
By Matt Donaghue, CFP®, CLU, CLTC, AIF®, AIFA®, PPC®, NSSA®, RICP®
The Week in Review
January's economic data has given us a lot to digest as we continue navigating 2025's market landscape. Here's a quick recap of last week’s key economic indicators:
- CPI rose 0.5% m/m (3.0% y/y): Inflation remains a major talking point, with consumer prices rising slightly higher than expected.
- Retail sales fell 0.9% m/m: A slowdown in spending could indicate a shift in consumer behavior post-holiday season.
- PPI increased 0.4% m/m (3.5% y/y): Wholesale inflation remains elevated, which may put continued pressure on corporate margins and pricing strategies.
The Week Ahead
Looking forward, two major events will give us deeper insights into the economy:
- FOMC minutes: Investors will be combing through these notes to gauge the Fed's stance on interest rates and inflationary concerns.
- Markit PMIs: This data will provide a pulse check on the health of the manufacturing and services sectors.
Thought of the Week: Is Commercial Real Estate at a Turning Point?
Since the pandemic, the commercial real estate (CRE) office sector has been one of the hardest-hit industries, as remote work policies reduced the need for traditional office spaces.
However, recent data suggests a potential inflection point in recovery:
- S. office net absorption turned positive in Q4 2024, hitting nearly 3.5 million square feet—the first meaningful increase in over three years.
- CEOs’ stance on hybrid work has shifted dramatically, with a September 2024 survey showing 79% of CEOs now expect a full return-to-office model within the next three years, up from just 34% in April 2024.
- Sublet space and availability rates have declined, signaling strengthening demand for office spaces.
While top-tier office properties in prime locations are rebounding faster than lower-tier assets, investors should monitor this space for opportunities. CRE remains at discounted valuations, making it a potentially attractive asset class for those willing to take on calculated risks.
Market Performance Snapshot
- S&P 500: 6,115 (+1.52% for the week, +4.11% YTD)
- Technology sector: Leading the charge with a 3.8% weekly gain
- Healthcare sector: Slight pullback of -1.1%
Upcoming Webinar: Business Continuation with Creo Valo
On February 26 at Noon Central, we’ll be hosting a webinar with Creo Valo to discuss business continuation issues, succession planning, and business valuation. If you're a business owner looking to safeguard your company's future, this is a must-attend event.
📅 Date: February 26, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM Central (10:000 AM PST/1:00 PM EST)
🔗 Register Here
For more details, reach out to:
📧 Jason Duffaut, CFP®, CAP®, CPFA®, CEXP® – jduffaut@mfplanners.com | 📞 726-727-6583
📧 Kenneth Hamilton, CFP®, RICP®, CDFA® – khamilton@mfplanners.com | 📞 726-727-6582
Quote of the Week: The Enemy of Happiness
“It is quite impossible to unite happiness with a yearning for what we don’t have. Happiness has all that it wants.” – Epictetus
Too often, we tie our happiness to future milestones—getting a promotion, reaching a savings goal, or retiring. But conditional happiness is like chasing the horizon; no matter how far you walk, it never gets closer. Instead, find fulfillment in the present moment while working toward your long-term goals.
Tax Tip: How to Choose the Right Tax Professional
As tax season approaches, choosing a qualified professional can make a significant difference in your tax planning. Here are some key tips:
- Verify credentials – Ensure your preparer has a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and relevant certifications (CPA, EA, or attorney).
- Check disciplinary records – Look for any history of complaints or sanctions.
- Discuss fees upfront – Avoid preparers who base fees on a percentage of your refund.
- Confirm e-filing capabilities – Most tax professionals are required to file electronically if they prepare more than 10 returns.
- Never sign a blank return – This is a major red flag.
- Review before signing – Ultimately, you are responsible for what’s filed with the IRS.
- Report suspicious activity – If you suspect tax fraud, report it to the IRS using Form 14157.
For more detailed tax planning strategies, be sure to work with a trusted advisor who understands your unique financial situation.
Final Thoughts
By taking a proactive approach to both your financial health and investment strategy, you can position yourself for long-term success in 2025 and beyond.
💬 If you have questions about market trends, tax strategies, or financial planning, let’s connect. At Mission Financial Planners, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of today’s financial landscape with clarity and confidence.
📩 Reach out if you have questions:
Matt Donaghue, CFP®, CLU, CLTC, AIF®, AIFA®, PPC®, NSSA®, RICP®
📧 mdonaghue@mfplanners.com
📞 726-727-6581
📍 Visit our website: www.missionfinancialplanners.com
🔹Now is the time to take control of your financial future!🔹