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  Equities U.S. equities were down in September, a seasonally weak month for the S&P 500, as higher interest rates weighed on investor sentiment. As a result of strong earnings growth, S&P 500 valuation forward multiples have compressed during 2026. The index entered the year trading around 22 times forward earnings but finished the third [...]

Market Update and Economic Developments Financial markets navigated uncertainty successfully despite concerns over slowing job growth, geopolitical tensions, elevated interest rates, and signs that progress on inflation may be slowing. Markets were supported by a healthy consumer backdrop and another strong earnings season led by technology and AI-related companies. Nonetheless, future earnings growth into the [...]

Market Update and Economic Developments The U.S. economy continued to demonstrate resilience in July. Employment conditions remained healthy, consumer spending stayed positive, and corporate earnings generally exceeded expectations. Growth has moderated from the exceptionally strong pace seen earlier in the recovery, but activity remains consistent with an expansionary environment. For the month of July, the [...]

Market Update and Economic Developments US. large cap equity growth slowed in June after a strong second quarter, with the S&P 500 Index finishing slightly negative for the month (-0.95%) and up 15.20% for the quarter—the best second quarter for the S&P in six years. Although geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a more [...]

Charitable giving is deeply personal. For individuals, families, dioceses, and faith-based organizations, it often reflects a lifetime of values, priorities, and purpose. But as giving becomes more intentional, it can also become more complex. Managing contributions, tracking receipts, reviewing grant requests, coordinating with advisors, and maintaining long-term charitable plans can require significant time, structure, and [...]

Market Update and Economic Developments The S&P 500 posted a strong 5.26% return in May, finishing the month at record highs and bringing the year-to-date return to 11.27%. This marks a strong reversal from the market low at the end of March, with the index rallying close to 20% since the market bottom. Technology led [...]