The [magic happens in] February Newsletter

In this newsletter:

• Why every business owner should have a personal financial plan.
• Overconfidence is a silent killer for businesses
• January Monthly Recap from Raymond James.

MY WEBCAST VIDEO

Every business owner should have a personal financial plan. These plans can help owners make difficult decisions and identify gaps in their personal finances and businesses. The result – better sleep every night.

Perhaps less obvious, a good personal plan can increase the odds of a successful business exit. Find out why in this short video.

Watch the full video here.

I am interested in interviewing more business owners who have exited. If you have anyone in mind, please reach out.?

FORBES ARTICLE

According to the article, overconfidence is a silent killer for businesses, distorting decision-making through cognitive biases. Leaders often mistake hubris for vision, ignoring critical risks and dismissing challenging feedback that could prevent strategic missteps.

Effective leadership requires a nuanced balance: maintaining confidence while embracing humility, rigorously stress-testing decisions, and treating failures as learning opportunities.

During my 9-year CEO tenure, I confronted this challenge by building a trusted network of peer CEOs and advisors who provided unfiltered insights. This strategic approach became my defense against the echo chamber of unchecked confidence.

Now, as a Financial Advisor with robust leadership experience, I guide business owners, helping them challenge their assumptions about business and personal finance.

Read more here.

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RAYMOND JAMES MARKET RECAP

In January 2025, U.S. equity markets demonstrated resilience amid multiple challenges. The markets began broadening beyond technology stocks, with the S&P 500 gaining 2.70%. Key developments included a new competitive landscape in AI, with China's DeepSeek challenging OpenAI, and the inauguration of President Donald Trump, which introduced significant policy shifts.

The Federal Reserve maintained interest rates while monitoring inflation, and employment showed strong growth despite some contraction. Market volatility increased due to uncertainties surrounding inflation, interest rates, fiscal policy, and potential AI disruption.

Global markets faced their own challenges: the UK experienced plummeting sovereign bond yields, China encountered economic headwinds, and Japan raised interest rates to 0.50% in pursuit of its inflation target.

The equity indices performed positively: the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 4.70%, NASDAQ increased 1.64%, and the MSCI EAFE index gained 5.46%.

The overall outlook remains cautiously optimistic, with expectations of continued volatility and market adaptation throughout the year.

Full market recap here

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YOUR CALL TO ACTION

If you're a business owner who hasn't updated your estate or personal tax strategy recently, now is the time. Let's connect and ensure your business and personal wealth strategies are aligned for maximum benefit.

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Opinions expressed in the attached article are those of the author/speaker and are not necessarily those of Raymond James. All opinions are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.?Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation.

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

This material is being provided for information purposes only and is not a complete description, nor is it a recommendation.?

Every investor's situation is unique, and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.