Wealth Management
Global private credit is staging a recovery from a decade-low slump, driven by stronger-than-expected global GDP growth and a gradual shift toward looser monetary policy.
Although deal activity remains below historical norms, transaction volumes grew 7% last year, with deal values rising 15% to $3.5 trillion, bringing the market closer to pre-pandemic levels. Despite lingering valuation gaps and geopolitical uncertainty, optimism is building for a stronger M&A rebound in 2025, which could further boost private credit’s rapid ascent as an alternative financing source.
The asset class has cemented itself as a critical pillar of corporate lending, filling the gap left by traditional banks and offering borrowers more tailored, flexible funding solutions. Investors are increasingly drawn to private credit’s ability to deliver stable returns and diversify portfolios, fueling further expansion in the sector.
Finsum: As dealmaking momentum builds, firms are poised to capitalize, leveraging their global network and deep industry expertise to connect capital with opportunity.
Spring doesn’t have to involve expensive travel—there are plenty of fun ways to enjoy time together at home. One idea is to “travel the world from home” by learning about different countries, cooking their traditional dishes, and watching related movies.
A family pilgrimage to a nearby holy site can also be a meaningful experience, especially during this Jubilee Year, with many designated pilgrimage locations across the U.S. For a fun night in, kids can enjoy a "sleep-under," wearing pajamas, playing games, and watching a movie before heading home to sleep.
Cozy reading time can be made extra special with a library trip followed by building a blanket fort to read new books inside. A family bake-off adds a competitive twist to baking, letting each child pick a recipe to make and everyone vote on the tastiest creation.
Finsum: Whether through cultural exploration, faith-filled experiences, or simple at-home activities, spring break can be both memorable and affordable.
As the wealth landscape evolves, the number of high-net-worth individuals is on the rise. And that means financial advisors who can cater to their complex needs will be in high demand. Are you prepared to meet the challenge?
Our infographic provides key strategies to help you become the go-to advisor for these discerning clients, such as:
- Leveraging professional designations
- Offering diverse financial strategies
- Using technology as a service tool
Are you ready to seize this growth opportunity? Transform your approach to serving high-net-worth clients today.
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With inflation concerns lingering, advisors are closely monitoring the Federal Reserve’s next moves. The Fed held interest rates steady but raised its inflation forecast for the year, while also trimming its growth projection to 1.7%.
Despite expectations for two rate cuts in 2024, economic uncertainty and potential trade disputes make forecasting difficult. Fixed income investors must remain adaptable, balancing inflation risks with the Fed’s evolving stance.
Actively managed bond ETFs, such as the Eaton Vance Total Return Bond ETF (EVTR), offer flexibility in navigating rate shifts. By blending investment-grade debt with selective high-yield exposure, EVTR seeks to optimize returns while mitigating risk in an unpredictable market.
Finsum: Active fixed income tends to dominate in macro markets, and that is the current environment that is current environment exactly.
Economic data from the first quarter indicates slowing growth alongside rising inflation, raising concerns about stagflation. February’s PCE price index, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, showed its highest reading in a year, while inflation-adjusted consumer spending barely increased.
GDP is now projected to shrink by 0.5% annually, as rising imports ahead of new tariffs weigh on growth. The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment survey reflects increasing pessimism, with inflation expectations rising and job market concerns deepening.
Meanwhile, Fed officials acknowledge that upcoming tariffs will likely push inflation higher, constraining their ability to cut interest rates.
Finsum: With economic uncertainty mounting, Americans are bracing for a difficult year ahead, but they need financial products that can be robust to these risks.
With more retirees seeking financial security, index annuities have gained popularity in 2025 for their mix of protection and growth potential. Index Annuities shield savings from market downturns while allowing interest accumulation when markets rise, making them a safer alternative to traditional investments.
They also offer guaranteed lifetime income, ensuring retirees don’t outlive their savings, a critical feature as life expectancy increases. Rising interest rates have further enhanced index annuities appeal, as new contracts now offer better returns compared to bonds.
Additionally, their tax advantages, including tax-deferred growth and flexible withdrawals, help retirees manage their financial burden efficiently.
Given these benefits, index annuities are becoming a key component of retirement planning in an uncertain economic climate.