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Clarity in Uncertain Times

  • Lauren Pearson
  • April 15, 2025

Key Takeaways:

  • Interest rates may feel high, but they’re closer to “normal” historically—what matters is how they fit the bigger economic picture and your plan.

  • The market isn’t one thing, and the S&P 500 is just an average, so the focus stays on quality businesses that can adapt and protect margins.

  • The steady move in uncertain times is simple: keep enough liquidity, stay engaged, and lean on a process instead of reacting to headlines.

When things feel uncertain, having a plan makes all the difference. That’s why at Somerset, our job is not just to track economic changes but to help you feel confident in how your wealth is positioned—no matter what’s ahead.

Three Things We’re Watching:

1. The Federal Reserve & Interest Rates

  • The Federal Reserve is independent—meaning no president or administration directly controls it. But government policies can make its job harder.
  • Interest rates are currently in a normal historical range, though they feel high compared to the last decade of near-zero rates. What matters is not just the number, but how well they align with economic growth.

2. The Stock Market & Economic Signals

  • The market doesn’t move as one. While headlines track the S&P 500 as a whole, it’s important to remember that it’s just an index—a blended average of many businesses, some thriving, some declining.
  • We don’t invest based on averages. Instead, we focus on quality companies that have the ability to adapt, grow, and protect margins, even in uncertain conditions.

3. Your Portfolio & Financial Plan

  • Liquidity matters—we always ensure you have access to cash when needed.
  • Opportunities emerge in every market cycle—whether through undervalued investments, tax planning, or smart reallocations.

What should you do?

Stay engaged, ask questions, and trust the process. Investing is not about reacting to the moment—it’s about owning great businesses that thrive over time.

If you’d like to talk through this in more detail, we’re here. No jargon, no panic—just clear, thoughtful planning for what’s next.

Warmly,

Lauren Pearson

Lauren Pearson, CFP®
Lauren Pearson
Website |  + postsBio ⮌

The most important thing in my life is my family. My husband, Andrew, and our three smart and brave daughters.

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Our team calls Beaufort, Birmingham, and Charlottesville home, yet our work extends far beyond. We walk along families nationwide, in person, and online.

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