North Star Financial Advisors - EB Capital Management

05/04/2026

Concerns about a potential economic slowdown are gaining attention as several indicators begin to show signs of strain.

Economists have recently increased their estimates for the likelihood of a downturn over the next 12 months. Some projections now place the probability significantly higher than the typical baseline, reflecting growing uncertainty.

Several factors are contributing to these concerns, including rising energy costs, pressure on consumers, and a labor market that has shown limited job growth in most sectors. In fact, job creation remained relatively weak over the past year, with some recent monthly declines.

Consumer sentiment has also softened, with a majority of respondents in one survey expecting a downturn within the next year.

While these trends don’t guarantee a contraction, they highlight how shifts in employment, spending, and global conditions can influence the broader economic outlook.


Source:

Economists have pulled up their risk assessments of a contraction amid heightened uncertainty over geopolitical risk and a labor market slump.

04/10/2026

Just over 50 percent of homeowners still have mortgages with rates under 4 percent. But that number has been trending lower, especially in the past year. Are you thinking about making a change?

04/01/2026

Spring isn't just for deep cleaning your home—it's also a chance to clear out the financial clutter that built up over the winter.

Now's a great time to check in on your spending, review automatic payments, organize important documents, and take one small step toward a bigger goal. It doesn't have to be all at once—just one thing at a time.

Need help figuring out where to start? Reach out—I'm happy to help.


🔗 Sources
CNBC, April 2025
Kiplinger, March 2024
American Express, March 2024

03/15/2026

Wealth preservation isn’t “set it and forget it.” Tax laws, markets, and family needs shift over time. Establish a rhythm for reviewing your estate, tax, and investment plans. A proactive approach keeps your legacy strong.

03/02/2026

As the U.S. enters 2026, economists are watching several key factors that may influence the economic landscape in the year ahead. While growth held up better than expected in 2025, many households continue to feel pressure from elevated costs.

Among the biggest questions are whether inflation will continue to cool, how the Federal Reserve may respond to changes in employment, and whether housing affordability will improve gradually over time. Experts are also monitoring how the adoption of artificial intelligence could affect job growth and productivity, as well as whether stock market gains can be broadened beyond a small group of leading companies.

Taken together, these factors suggest a year shaped less by dramatic shifts and more by gradual adjustment, as businesses and consumers respond to evolving economic conditions.



Source:

From stubbornly high living costs to a softer labor market, economists say these are the forces that will shape the year ahead.

02/20/2026

Retirement can last decades. Regular financial check-ins help stress-test your plan against market downturns, rising health costs, and lifestyle changes. Working with a financial professional can boost confidence and reduce stress. Schedule your review today!

02/02/2026

Read the latest weekly market update from Cetera Investment Management:

All three major U.S. equity averages posted losses of 0.5% or less last week, marking their first back-to-back declines of the new year. While reversing much of the S&P 500’s 2% drop on Tuesday, Wall Street was whipsawed after President Trump threatened new European tariffs to gain support for his...

01/01/2026

12/01/2025

The IRS announced adjustments for 2026, which address a few key areas:
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-limit-increases-to-24500-for-2026-ira-limit-increases-to-7500

What does that mean for you?

There are changes to capital gains tax rates, annual exclusion for gifts, estate tax exclusion, and more.

Have questions about the new rules? My office has 2026 tax resources that you may find helpful.

This material is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax professional before modifying your tax strategy.

11/20/2025

Rebalancing your portfolio before year-end can help manage risk and lock in gains. Don’t forget to review concentrated positions and private investments.