IFS Insights – March
Market Outlook and Global Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Update from the IFS Team
Dear Friends,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, we’ve been reflecting on the past year and wanted to thank you for your continued trust. It was a privilege to navigate the ups and downs of 2025 with you, and we truly value the partnership we’ve built.
Enclosed, you’ll find a market commentary providing a look at how the markets ended the year. We’ve also included an article on discussing money with adult kids and some ideas to keep you busy in winter.
Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and well-prepared as we begin this new year.
Wishing you a healthy, secure, and prosperous 2026!
The IFS Team
Included in this edition:
- Global Market Commentary
- It’s time to have “The Talk.”
- What’s Happening – Local Things to Do
Market Commentary
Global risk assets finished 2025 on a firm footing, capping a year marked by resilient growth, moderating but still above‑target inflation, and a gradual pivot by central banks toward less restrictive policy. U.S. equities advanced in the fourth quarter, led by large‑cap growth and technology‑oriented companies, while volatility experienced several policy‑ and politics‑related spikes but ended the year near its longer‑run averages.
Click below to read more.
It's time to have “The Talk.”
The Talk, in parenting circles, is generally defined as an uncomfortable conversation with your children.
But there is another talk. It happens later, and it’s just as hard and also so important: about money, and power of attorney, and medical directives, and all the other issues that arise toward the end of life.
Click below to read more.
Things to do while it's cold
- Full Moon Snowshoe
- Discover the magic of Mt. Hood under the glow of a full moon.
- February 1 & March 3
- Road Scholar Online Lectures
- Offers a taste of the educational experiences you might enjoy on a longer Road Scholar adventure. Lasting about an hour, online lectures are perfect for those with busy schedules or those looking for an introduction to a new topic.
- Milwaukie Self Guided Tour
- Milwaukie, OR self-guided tour
- 5.5 miles exploring history, art, architecture, and nature.
- Read a book
- Wanting to read more in 2026? Browse the website below and find a comfy blanket to wait out winter.
Recent Newsletters
Fourth Quarter 2025
Global Market Commentary
It’s time to have “The Talk.”
What’s Happening – Local Things to Do
Third Quarter 2025
Global Market Commentary
How To Recognize and Avoid Phishing Scams
What the U.S. Government Shutdown Could Mean for Investors
What’s Happening – Local Things to Do
Second Quarter 2025
Market review
Five Key Impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Sabbaticals and why to take one
What’s happening