IFS Insights – March
Market Outlook and Global Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Update from the IFS Team
Dear Friends,
We hope this newsletter finds you well and getting in the Autumn mood! 😊
Included in this edition:
- Market Commentary
- A new phone scam to be aware of
- Ideas for new skills to learn
Thank you for allowing us to partner with you on your journey!
The IFS Team
Market Commentary
Global equity markets had a rough third quarter – especially the smaller-cap and tech names. The month of September was especially difficult, as volatility increased, oil jumped, and the S&P 500 closed out September with 4 consecutive losing weeks.
The themes that drove market performance in the third quarter continued to center around inflation, the Fed, the housing market, and the labor market, as recent numbers suggested that inflation is easing as the Fed paused its rate-hiking trend (at least for now). There was also a lot of encouraging economic data received this quarter as well, including hopeful GDP numbers and consumer sentiment levels.
Click below to read more.
AI Voice Phone Scams
Phone scams are nothing new, but thanks to artificial intelligence, they are getting more sophisticated and believable. We wanted to make you aware of a new scam where people use AI software to recreate the voices of loved ones in distress and then ask for large sums of money.
How to prevent being scammed
- Consider creating a family code word
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers
- Hang up as soon as you suspect it might be a scam
Want to learn a new skill?
Use the links below to find yours
- Knitting Classes
- Starlight Knitting Society
- Learn to knit something comfy for the chilly weather
- Woodworking Classes
- Hands-on classes designed to develop woodworking skills and/or build projects.
- Instrument Classes
- Tigard Arts Academy
- Learn to play an instrument
- Ages 5-95
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