Renewed trade tensions between the U.S. and China drove stocks lower while the continuation of the government shutdown elevated concerns.

In 2025, the U.S. economy has shown resilience despite challenges from government policies. While inflation has eased, it remains elevated due to ongoing tariff-related pressures, and the labor market is in a period of low hiring, low firing.

Voya’s investment leaders debate the Fed rate cycle, policy questions, and the widening effect of AI’s massive, global buildout.

Global growth slows under the weight of tariffs, but fiscal stimulus, AI-driven productivity, and corporate strength keep equities in the driver’s seat.

Despite the shutdown, markets were more focused on labor and the probability of more rate cuts.

Stable value funds and money market funds are often compared in terms of their returns … but only one has had consistent performance over the long term.

Economic data and Fed commentary have tempered investor expectations for two additional rate cuts this year.

U.S. equities rose and bonds fell as the Fed cut rates.

A strong finish to 2Q25 earnings and higher odds of a rate cut pushed markets higher this week.

To evaluate is human; to document the process, divine.