Life in the Markets

Markets have declined for a third straight week as rising oil prices and renewed inflation fears dominate headlines. But the actual pullback remains relatively modest. While many might brace for a larger sell-off, the data tells a more measured story, with pockets of opportunity emerging. In this update, we break down what’s really driving the markets, and how to think wisely in the midst of uncer...

Oil prices have surged amid the conflict with Iran, driving volatility higher across global markets. Yet despite the uncertainty, and oil nearing $100 a barrel, stocks have remained surprisingly resilient. In this update, we discuss what the market’s reaction may be telling us and what risks investors should still be watching. Visit the Show Notes page. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardolo...

Markets are facing new pressure as the conflict with Iran disrupts global oil supplies and a weaker-than-expected jobs report raises economic questions. Despite the uncertainty, the market has shown surprising resilience so far in 2026. In this week’s update, we break down what’s happening and how Christians can maintain hope and perspective in uncertain times. Visit the Show Notes page. Watch on...

The first two months of 2026 have been anything but quiet. From Supreme Court tariff rulings to rising inflation and the U.S.–Israel strike on Iran, global events are creating fresh uncertainty in the markets. In this update, we break down what’s actually driving market performance so far this year—and how investors should think biblically and strategically during turbulent times. Visit the Show N...

Artificial intelligence is driving massive investment, but it faces a critical bottleneck: energy. With data centers projected to require far more power than is currently scheduled to come online, the AI boom may collide with real-world infrastructure limits. In this update, we explore the AI power gap, market implications, and how Christians should think wisely about emerging technology. Visit th...

This episode explores the growing shift in the markets from large-cap growth stocks toward smaller-cap, value-oriented companies. We break down recent performance across stocks, bonds, commodities, and crypto, and explain why broader market participation may be a healthier sign for investors. We also offer a timely reminder on stewardship, volatility, and where true financial confidence should (an...

How can investing actually make the world a better place? In this episode, we explore the biblical call to invest, how capital fuels human flourishing, and why aligning your faith with your investments matters more than you might think. Visit the Show Notes page. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast Purchase Tim's Book, The Good Steward Visit TheLifeGroup.org The topics disc...

What if investing is about more than money? In this episode of Life in the Markets , we explore a biblical call to invest, tracing God’s design from the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem. Discover how work, capital, and stewardship fit into God’s plan for human flourishing and His glory. Visit the Show Notes page. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast Purchase Tim's Book, T...

This week on Life in the Markets , we unpack a relatively quiet week for stocks, key economic data on jobs and mortgage rates, and a record move in gold prices. We also explore the renewed debate around capping credit card interest rates, examining the issue through historical, economic, and biblical perspectives. Finally, we look ahead at how today’s AI-driven market compares to the Dot-Com bubbl...

In this market update, Tim Russell and Stephen Rohrer review the major economic, policy, and market developments that shaped 2025, including inflation, tariffs, jobs, and performance across stocks, bonds, real estate, and international markets. They also look ahead to 2026, discussing potential risks and opportunities related to AI, gold and silver, and important tax considerations for investors....

The “warmth of collectivism” sounds appealing, until reality sets in. From Venezuela’s collapse to early warning signs here at home, we examine how ideology shapes economies, why markets always respond, and why Christians should care. Scripture, history, and economics all point to the same conclusion, making these lessons timely, uncomfortable, and impossible to ignore. Watch on YouTube Subscribe...

Markets ended the week nearly flat heading into Christmas, with stocks treading water while gold and silver posted notable gains and inflation data offered little meaningful clarity. In this episode, we unpack what last week’s economic reports really tell us and discuss the case for broadening beyond high-valuation growth stocks. We also close with a timely year-end discussion on capital gains dis...

Markets shrugged off a widely anticipated rate cut as leadership rotated from large cap growth to small cap and value stocks. We break down what’s happening beneath the surface, especially the shifting yield curve, and why falling short term rates don’t necessarily mean lower mortgage rates. We’ll also discuss what these signals may reveal about risk, stability, and wise financial stewardship. Rea...

This week, market volatility jumped as the VIX surged into the high 20s, signaling growing investor uncertainty. We break down what’s driving the turbulence, from consumer strain and small-business job losses to new details on the Trump Accounts and the upcoming Fed meeting. Join us for a clear, level-headed look at what matters most for your money right now. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stew...

In this episode, we break down the growing concentration risk hiding inside the S&P 500 and explain why the top 10 mega-cap companies now dominate nearly 40% of the index. We explore how AI-driven valuations have reshaped “diversified” passive investing—and what that means for your portfolio. Finally, we discuss steps investors can take to reduce risk, including how BRI portfolios naturally mi...

In this episode, we unpack a volatile week in the markets as the VIX jumps, stocks slip, and inflation pressures re-emerge. From retail winners and losers to shifting consumer sentiment, we explore what’s driving the jitters, and why there are still reasons to stay grounded and thankful in the midst of uncertainty. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast Purchase Tim's Book, Th...

In this episode, Tim breaks down why the proposed 50-year mortgage is a dangerous illusion of affordability. He explains how longer loan terms actually raise interest rates, increase total borrowing costs, and trap homeowners in decades of extra debt. Plus, we cover the newly released 2026 contribution limits for 401(k)s, IRAs, SIMPLE plans, and HSAs. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology...

The markets are showing two very different stories... booming AI giants and struggling real-world industries. At the same time, New York City just elected a socialist mayor promising that government can fix everything. In this episode, we unpack what both trends reveal about the state of our economy and our nation. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast Purchase Tim's Book, Th...

This week on Life in the Markets , Tim Russell, CFP® breaks down the latest from the Federal Reserve, market volatility, and Big Tech earnings...But the real story is AI. Is artificial intelligence fueling a sustainable boom or an inevitable bubble? Tim explores what AI means for investors, how it’s reshaping the market, and why a biblical view of technology reminds us that no machine can replace...

Markets climbed last week while Inflation remained around 3%, reflecting stubborn price pressures on U.S. consumers and putting pressure on the Fed to act. From rate cut expectations, to trade talks with China, and Biblical wisdom for uncertain times, here’s what investors need to know. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast Purchase Tim's Book, The Good Steward Visit TheLifeG...

This week’s markets were choppy as investors weighed renewed trade tensions with China, employment concerns, and questions around AI’s near-term payoff. Major banks kicked off Q3 earnings season with cautious optimism, highlighting continued consumer strength despite a government shutdown limiting key economic data. Jamie Dimon added a dose of realism, reminding investors that even in resilient ma...

Markets rallied early in the week before reversing sharply after renewed U.S.–China trade tensions reignited fears of a global slowdown. We explore what’s behind the tariff drama and whether the excitement around AI is creating a modern-day tech bubble. We’ll also share practical insights on how investors can stay grounded amid volatility, plus an encouraging update from the IRS for retirees makin...

In this episode of Life in the Markets , Stephen Rohrer takes us through a review of Q3 2025, covering everything from tariff whiplash and record highs to Federal Reserve moves and the recent government shutdown. Along the way, we explore what these events mean for investors and why staying the course matters in volatile times. Stephen also draws biblical lessons from passages like Romans 13 and L...

Markets are adjusting to the Fed’s recent rate cuts, and the ripple effects could impact your portfolio, mortgage, and financial plan. Rising inflation and steady jobless claims send mixed signals, leaving investors wondering what comes next. Shifts in housing and workforce trends reveal deeper insights about God’s design for work, family, and provision—and how these truths still shape our economy...

Markets climbed last week as the Fed cut rates by 0.25%, sending the S&P 500 to new highs despite rising Treasury yields and mortgage rates. Beyond the numbers, we reflect on Charlie Kirk’s memorial service, where the Gospel was boldly proclaimed. What does this mean for our nation, our markets, and the choice before us: Christ or chaos? Watch on YouTube Subscribe to The Stewardology Podcast P...