North Star Financial Advisors - EB Capital Management

06/01/2026

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its latest meeting, maintaining the benchmark range at 3.5% to 3.75%.

While the decision itself was widely expected, the vote reflected a notable level of disagreement among policymakers, with several members expressing differing views on the outlook for future rate adjustments.

Some officials pointed to ongoing inflation concerns, while others focused on how policy signals could shape expectations moving forward.

Recent economic data continues to show a mixed picture, with steady job growth alongside inflation that remains above long-term targets.

Moments like this highlight how central bank decisions often involve balancing multiple factors as conditions evolve over time.


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The Federal Reserve on Wednesday released its latest decision on interest rates.

05/20/2026

Recent global developments are beginning to show up in key areas of the U.S. economy, with energy costs leading the impact.

Fuel prices have risen, with the national average reaching around $4.10 per gallon, increasing costs for households and businesses. Broader inflation data has also reflected some upward pressure, particularly in energy-related categories.

Despite these shifts, overall economic growth is still expected to continue, though at a slower pace. Some forecasts suggest growth may ease slightly while remaining positive.

Consumer activity has shown mixed signals. Spending has remained relatively steady, even as sentiment surveys reflect lower confidence.

Looking ahead, factors like energy prices, inflation trends, and central bank decisions may continue to influence the economic outlook.


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The Iran war is starting to show up in the U.S. economy in ways both obvious and not so much.

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.


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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.



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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