Stellar Advisor

04/07/2026

U.S. stocks slipped in Q1 as AI disruption fears and Middle East tensions rattled investors. The S&P 500 fell 4.63%, the Nasdaq dropped 7.11%, and the Dow lost 3.58% — though six of eleven S&P 500 sectors still finished in the green, led by Energy's standout 37.91% gain. As the weather warms up and spring gets us outside, it turns out Americans are right there with you — over 181 million U.S. residents participated in outdoor recreation in 2024. Check out this month's by-the-numbers for more on the outdoor recreation economy.

Stocks fell in the first quarter amid concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) could disrupt certain industries and geopolitical issues that unsettled investors.

03/05/2026

Stocks were mixed in February as AI disruption concerns and escalating geopolitical tensions weighed on investor sentiment. The S&P 500 slipped 0.87% and the Nasdaq fell 3.38%, while the Dow edged up 0.17%. Canada’s S&P/TSX advanced 7.57%. As attention turns to the Fed’s March meeting and its updated Summary of Economic Projections, markets will be watching closely for signals on the path ahead. From 73% of the world’s maple syrup produced in Canada to a \$1.64 billion global market, this month’s by-the-numbers highlights the industry behind one of North America’s most iconic products.

U.S. stocks struggled in February amid fears that artificial intelligence would disrupt a wide swath of industries, unsettling investors. Late in the month, geopolitical concerns weighed on the market amid tensions in the Middle East.

02/06/2026

Stocks climbed in January as solid economic data offset geopolitical tensions. The S&P 500 rose 1.37%, the Dow gained 1.73%, and Canada's TSX picked up 0.66%, setting multiple record highs early in the month. The Fed held rates steady as expected, with all eyes now on the March meeting. From \$27.5 billion spent in the U.S. to \$97.80 per person in Canada, Valentine's Day spending spans the globe. Check out this month's by-the-numbers.

Stocks climbed in January as the tailwinds of solid economic data offset the headwinds of geopolitical tensions that rattled investors during the month.

01/09/2026

Markets ended 2025 on a quiet note, but Q4 closed with gains across all major U.S. indexes as investors weighed lower interest rates, mixed labor data, and ongoing economic delays from the October shutdown. The S&P 500 rose 2.35% for the quarter, while the Dow led with a 3.59% gain. As we kick off the new year with resolutions and fresh starts, many of us reach for our favorite morning brew. But have you ever wondered about the global love affair with coffee and tea? Check out this month's by-the-numbers.

U.S. stocks notched a solid gain in the fourth quarter as investors cheered lower interest rates and solid corporate profits while navigating limited economic updates due to the U.S. government shutdown.

12/29/2025

Is your retirement portfolio subject to “sequence of returns” danger?

Experiencing negative returns early in retirement can potentially undermine the sustainability of your assets.

12/29/2025

Emrich has been prominently featured in Lehigh Valley Business magazine, where he shares valuable insights into the Dos and Don'ts of succession planning. At Stellar Advisor, we understand that succession planning is a critical component of long-term business success. Our team provides strategic guidance to help you navigate these complexities effectively.
Succession planning isn't just about the future; it's about taking decisive actions today to ensure your business thrives tomorrow. We invite you to read the full article here:
Reach out to one of our experienced planners to discuss your unique business needs and explore customized succession planning options. Let's work together to secure a robust future for your business. Stay ahead, stay prepared with Stellar Advisor.

Planning an exit strategy for a company takes a psychological step before a financial one and there are many potential pitfalls for an owner seeking to build a succession plan.

12/27/2025

Why are they made again and again? This piece helps make sense of these errors in judgment.

Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgment.

12/26/2025

Do you know the difference between a global mutual fund and an international mutual fund?

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

12/24/2025

Divorce is a painful process. Avoid financial mistakes that may have life-long consequences.

By understanding a few key concepts during a divorce, you may be able to avoid common pitfalls.

12/22/2025

Compound interest can dramatically impact the future growth of your assets. Learn more.

Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.

12/20/2025

The list of IRA withdrawals that may be taken without incurring a 10% early penalty has grown.