Financial Insights Archives
5 Questions to Ask Financial Advisors Before Hiring Them
January is when many of us think about what we want to change, what we want to start, what we want to do better. You might even be thinking about contacting a financial advisor for the first time but aren’t sure what to ask. In fact, many people walk into that first meeting with a…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q4 2025
As the calendar turns on another year, the fourth quarter of 2025 offered a fitting conclusion to a market cycle shaped by patience and progress. While headlines shifted throughout the year, long-term investors were rewarded for staying the course. As we review the fourth quarter and reflect on the year behind us, the markets once…
Read MoreYour Year-End Financial Checklist
As the year wraps up, it’s a natural time to revisit your goals and ensure the important areas of your financial life are on track. Below are several key topics to review as you prepare for the year ahead. Investments Set a goal to review your investments with your financial professional. You’ll want to come…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q3 2025
As summer came to a close, investors were reminded once again that patience pays off. What began as a cautious quarter, ended with markets breaking new records and renewed confidence in the economy’s strength. The S&P 500 closed above 6,600 for the first time, gaining over 5% during the quarter and pushing year-to-date returns into…
Read MoreMarket Commentary Q2 2025
The second quarter of 2025 brought a mix of challenges and opportunities for investors. Global markets navigated significant volatility, driven by U.S. trade policy shifts, geopolitical tensions, and evolving economic signals. Despite a sharp selloff in April due to new tariff announcements, markets rebounded strongly, with most major indices posting positive returns by quarter-end. This…
Read MoreNew Job? Don’t Forget About Your 401(k)
Starting a new job is a big milestone – one that comes with excitement, and at times, a bit of stress. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to overlook the financial details that come with a career change. However, taking time to review your retirement savings is an important step to ensure your…
Read MoreMarket Commentary: Q1 2025
The first quarter of 2025 started strong for U.S. stocks but ended with a decline, underperforming global markets. Investors faced uncertainty around economic conditions, competition in the AI sector, and potential tariff impacts under the new presidential administration. While the S&P 500 hit record highs early in the quarter, it was down for the year…
Read MoreCameron Ridgeway of Petersen Hastings Wealth Advisors Named New Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro for Spokane
Petersen Hastings Wealth Advisors is pleased to announce that Cameron Ridgeway, has been appointed as the new Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro for Spokane and the surrounding areas. This strategic expansion underscores our commitment to delivering holistic, fiduciary financial guidance across Washington State. As a Dave Ramsey SmartVestor Pro, Cameron will provide personalized financial guidance to…
Read MoreInvesting Can Be a Roller Coaster: Three Tips for Riding Out the Ups and Downs
Investing, like a roller coaster, has its ups and downs. One minute you’re climbing higher and the next a sudden decline makes your stomach drop. A few reminders can help investors to relax amid the turbulence. 1. Keep Your Eye on the Horizon When you invest, you can expect that both ups and downs will…
Read MoreCaring for Aging Parents: A Millennial’s Guide to Planning & Conversations
Thanks to healthier lifestyles and advances in modern medicine, the worldwide population over age 65 is growing. In the past decade, the number of Americans aged 65 and older has increased by 38% and is projected to reach 82 million by 2050. As our nation ages, many millennials are stepping into a new and complex role—caring for aging parents while managing…
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