Watch Matt Curfman’s latest market update video below:

Quick Topics Covered:

• 0:00 – Introduction
• 0:26 – June’s extreme headlines and nuclear tensions
• 0:59 – Market reactions to global risks
• 1:13 – Protecting your life savings: why avoiding catastrophic loss matters
• 2:05 – Smoother Ride strategies and trade-offs in rapid market drops
• 2:25 – Current portfolio positioning: mostly reinvested, some defensive
• 2:39 – Adjusting your risk level: we have options
• 3:25 – The importance of long-term perspective and hindsight bias
• Tariff negotiations: July deadlines and potential market impact (please see below in post)
• 3:55 – We’re here to help: how to contact our team
• 4:23 – Closing thoughts and office holiday hours

Closed captions may also be found here

As we step into the third quarter of 2025, you may have noticed the headlines have been more intense than usual. From unsettling global tensions to domestic policy shifts, the news cycle has certainly given investors plenty to think about. But what does it all really mean for your retirement and your life savings?

Markets and the Power of Perspective

In June, the possibility of significant geopolitical conflict—including the near-discussion of nuclear war—dominated the news. These are understandably alarming topics, and while the headlines captured attention, the markets remained surprisingly steady.

This is a perfect reminder of why our Richmond Brothers advisory team always emphasizes long-term planning and risk management. The truth is, markets don’t always react the way we expect. Sometimes, even the scariest news doesn’t spark a major market move. But if something had gone wrong, it could have been catastrophic—especially for those approaching or in retirement who aren’t adding to their savings anymore.

That’s why our core investment philosophy focuses on protecting your life savings from extreme losses. Some of our third-party managers and strategies, like the Smoother Ride™ options, are designed to shield you from those sharp downturns—even if it means occasionally missing the very first part of a recovery.

As of July 1st, most of our core strategies have reinvested following recent defensive postures, with just a small piece still held back for caution.

Balancing Risk and Opportunity

We know every investor’s comfort level is different. If you’ve been watching the news and your first instinct is to lean into more risk, we have options. More aggressive strategies are available, and we’re always happy to explore those with you.

On the flip side, if you’d rather stay the course and focus on protection—even if it means missing a small piece of the upside—that’s perfectly fine too. The goal is to build a plan that helps you sleep well at night, knowing you’re aligned with your own priorities.

Tariff Negotiations: A Key July Wildcard

Another important unknown on the horizon: we’re also approaching the tariff negotiation deadlines set by the White House later this month. While the administration recently indicated these deadlines may not be “critical,” tariff-related decisions could still influence the markets in the weeks ahead.

These kinds of policy shifts—much like interest rate changes or international tensions—can stir market movement, and staying informed will be key as we move through the summer.

We’re Here for You

If you ever feel uncertain about what you’re seeing in the headlines or how current events could impact your portfolio, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us anytime at questions@richmondbrothers.com. Our advisory team is here to provide guidance, education, and support to help you live confidently into and through retirement.

Thank you for being part of the Richmond Brothers family. We’re honored to walk alongside you on this journey.