Helping You Navigate Retirement with Clarity and Confidence

Whether you’re a long-time Richmond Brothers family client member or simply exploring your financial options, one thing remains true: retirement should be a season of peace of mind—not uncertainty. Our mission is to help you approach each financial decision with knowledge, purpose, and confidence.

In this edition of Matt’s Minutes, Matt Curfman, CFP®, shares timely updates on the economic and market landscape as we enter summer 2025, with a focus on what current and soon-to-be retirees should keep in mind.

No time to watch? Read the “closed captions” here.

🔍 Market Developments We’re Monitoring

A few key themes are shaping the financial conversation this month—and they may have meaningful implications for your retirement strategy:

🇨🇳 Renewed U.S.–China Trade Tensions

Although a preliminary agreement was announced in early May, recent headlines suggest growing disagreements between the U.S. and China. This uncertainty may contribute to market volatility, which is important to factor into your portfolio decisions.

📉 U.S. Debt Downgrade

In May, a third major credit rating agency downgraded U.S. debt. While this development doesn’t trigger immediate action, it reflects broader concerns about the federal deficit—an issue that could influence future interest rates, inflation, and market performance.

💼 Pending Tax Code Changes

The current tax code, enacted under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, is scheduled to sunset on December 31, 2025. While no changes are final yet, policy discussions are underway, and retirees should stay informed about how future tax adjustments may impact income, gifting, or estate strategies.

🛡️ What This Means for Your Retirement Plan

For those in or nearing retirement, market shifts can feel more personal—and more permanent—than they did earlier in life. While long-term investing still plays an important role, some individuals may benefit from incorporating protective strategies as part of a well-rounded plan.

At Richmond Brothers, we work with clients to explore ways to help reduce downside risk while staying aligned with long-term goals. These strategies vary depending on individual needs, and we believe that a plan built around your values and lifestyle can provide added peace of mind—especially in uncertain times.

“The market may shift, but your strategy should remain rooted in purpose.” – Matt Curfman, CFP®

🔄 For Our Family of Clients: Here If You Need Us

If you’re already working with Richmond Brothers, you likely have a regularly scheduled RECONNECT visit on the calendar. That said, if you have questions about anything discussed in this update—or if something in your world has changed—please make sure to reach out.

We’re always happy to have conversations outside the normal cadence to help bring clarity or confidence.

🧭 Exploring Your Options? We’re Here to Help.

If you’re not part of our client family, but you’re thinking about how these issues might affect your retirement, we invite you to connect with us. It’s never too early—or too late—to start planning with clarity.

📩 Questions? Email us anytime at questions@richmondbrothers.com
📞 Interested in a no-obligation conversation? Give us a call at 517-435-4040

☀️ A Thoughtful Start to Summer

As summer begins here in Michigan, we’re reminded that financial planning is about balance—between enjoying life today and preparing for tomorrow. No matter where you are in your journey, Richmond Brothers is here to walk with you into and through retirement.

We appreciate the opportunity to serve you, and we’re honored to be part of your financial journey.

SOURCES:

Research Reports

YCharts