Blog
Thank for visiting our faith-driven financial and Biblically Responsible Investing blog. We'll share ideas from the financial services industry, emerging trends in the economy or markets, or updates about the Biblically Responsible Investing movement. Welcome!
Weekly Market Insights: Markets React to Positive Trade Talk_2025-04-28
Stocks pushed higher last week, spurred by the White House's reassuring comments that progress was being made with trade talks. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.59 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index picked up 6.73...
Read MoreInspire: What should I expect in the stock market following the Presidential Election?
The 2024 U.S. presidential election has reshaped the investment landscape, creating substantial growth potential for smaller companies. Inspire’s biblically mETFs, which emphasize smaller company exposure in comparison to secular indices
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights | Markets Process Tariff Deals, New Data_2025-02-10
Stocks posted modest losses last week as tariff deals, January jobs data, and Q4 corporate reports injected volatility into markets. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.24 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 0.53...
Read MoreInspire: Investment Advisors Warn Top Corporations Diversity Initiatives Are Liability_2024-11-18
Investment Advisors Warn Top Corporations That Diversity Initiatives Are “Now a Liability” After Trump’s Victory https://dailycallernewsfoundation...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally Ahead of Fed Meeting_2024-09-16
Stocks rallied last week as investors received better-than-expected consumer and producer inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.60 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index gained 4.02 percent. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreShow All
Weekly Market Insights: Markets Focus on Fed's Big September Move_2024-09-09
Stocks fell last week as soft economic data rattled investors focused on the Fed’s next move with interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.93 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index dropped 4.25 percent. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks React to Key Data and Earnings_2024-09-03
There were mixed results for stocks last week as upbeat economic data and a critical Q2 corporate report shaped the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.94 percent, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index increased 0.24 percent...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Powell: Fed is Ready for Rate Cut_2024-08-26
Stocks notched a solid gain as dovish comments from Federal Reserve officials boosted the market’s recovery from early August lows. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.45 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite added 1.40 percent. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Goes Dove; Investors Retreat_2024-08-05
Stocks fell broadly last week as investors looked past upbeat Fed comments and focused on disappointing corporate reports and weaker-than-expected economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.20 percent, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Down Corporate Reports Shake Investors_2024-07-29
Stocks had a mixed, see-saw week as disappointing corporate reports unsettled investors who appeared to rotate away from some leading groups in favor of other names. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.75 percent. Meanwhile,...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Shift, Anticipating Lower Interest Rates_2024-07-22
Stocks were under pressure last week as investors appeared to rotate out of mega-cap tech stocks and into areas that may benefit from lower interest rates. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 1.97 percent, while Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreShareholder Engagement Victories in 2024: Viewpoint Diversity Score Business Index_2024-07-17
The 2024 shareholder engagement season has already yielded significant victories for Christian investors – God is on the move!
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Advance After New Inflation Data_2024-07-15
Stocks advanced last week as market leadership shifted amid fresh inflation data and quarterly corporate reports starting to roll in. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index advanced 0.87 percent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average picked...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Steady in Short Holiday Trading_2024-07-08
Stocks steadily advanced over the holiday week thanks to strength in mega-cap tech issues and encouraging jobs data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.95 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index added 3.50 percent. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreInspire Rings the Closing Bell on the New York Stock Exchange_2024-07-05
A delegation from Inspire recently rang the Closing Bell at NYSE in celebration of the recent launch of the low-cost Inspire 500 ETF (PTL)! Take a look!
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Mixed Message From Fed Chair, Governor_2024-07-01
Stocks finished the last week of June and Q2 mixed as investors digested a fresh round of economic data. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index slipped 0.08%, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average also dipped 0.08 percent. The tech-heavy...
Read MoreTrue Abundance_2024-06-26
I love the following recent "Weekly Wisdom" put out by Rob West, host of the Faith & Finance podcast & radio show. What is the treasure of your heart? Jesus warned his followers in Luke 12: “Take care, and be on your guard against all...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise Modestly Over Short Trading Week_2024-06-24
Stocks edged higher over the four trading days last week, with the three major averages taking turns leading based on various economic and artificial intelligence (AI) news. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.45 percent–its best...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Market Enjoys Gains, Reacting to Major Reports_2024-06-17
Stocks notched a solid gain last week, driven by the Fed’s decision, May's inflation report, and Apple’s AI-related news. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index rose 1.58 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite picked up 3.24 percent. The Dow...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Solid Week Despite Mixed Reports_2024-06-10
Stocks rose last week despite conflicting stories from economic reports. The Dow Jones Industrial Average inched up 0.29 percent while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index powered ahead 1.31 percent. The Nasdaq Composite led, picking up 2...
Read MoreChristian Investors and Gay Pride Month_2024-06-04
The Christian investor community cannot shy away from engaging culture on such a vital topic. We must let our light shine. We must keep our salt salty.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Sag on Downbeat Economic Indicators_2024-06-03
Stocks edged lower in the final week of May as fresh news on economic growth and inflation failed to inspire investors. Stocks Slide Markets shrugged off news that the Q1 Gross Domestic Product was revised lower to 1.3 percent from...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: AI Rules Big Week for Tech Stocks_2024-05-27
Last week's stock performance was mixed, following investors' reaction to the Fed's May meeting minutes, while a handful of mega-cap tech companies created a buzz with their news. Market Splits Stocks began trading in a narrow band...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Anticipate Fed Rate Change_2024-05-20
Stocks notched a solid gain last week in a mega-cap, tech-led rally bolstered by positive inflation news. Dow 40,000 The week began quietly as market averages traded in a tight range, awaiting fresh inflation news. On Tuesday, markets...
Read MoreInspire Investing Named One of the Best Financial Advisory Firms by USA Today_2024-05-16
Inspire Investing was ranked by USA Today and Statista as a top Registered Investment Advisor for 2024 based on asset growth and recommendations by financial advisors, clients, and industry experts.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise, Anticipating Rate Cut_2024-05-13
Stocks notched a solid gain last week as rate-cut expectations paced the rally as the Q1 earnings season wound down. Stocks Climb Steadily Monday opened with stocks picking up where they left off the prior Friday. Stocks were still...
Read MoreMake Your Voice Heard_2024-05-09
Did you know that you, YES YOU, can file shareholder resolutions with the companies that you own stock in? Yes, you can make your voice and your values heard in boardrooms across America. Of course there are details. So, to be able to...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Volatility, Uncertainty Rule the Week for Markets_2024-05-06
Stocks notched a solid gain last week, rallying behind upbeat earnings, a dovish Fed, and mixed economic data. Stocks Pop, Drop, Then Rally Markets began the week with an upward bump as positive news from some mega-cap tech companies...
Read MoreInspire Investing Ranks #166 in Financial Times “Americas’ Fastest-Growing Companies 2024”_24-04-30
Inspire Investing, the world's largest provider of faith-based ETFs, is named to the Financial Times "Americas' Fastest-Growing Companies 2024" list.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Despite Turbulent Week, Stocks Stage Comeback_2024-04-29
Stocks staged a choppy comeback last week as investors cheered positive earnings, led by mega-cap tech stocks. The rally came to pass despite fresh data showing a slowing economy and increasing inflationary pressures. Stocks Bounce...
Read MoreHolding the Line Against Corporate LGBT Activism_2024-04-26
The pressure for businesses to cave into the demands for not just tolerance, nor even acceptance, but promotion and celebration of LGBT sexuality seems to build with each passing year.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed and Middle East Conflict Diminish Stocks_2024-04-22
Stocks fell for a third straight week, as Fed Chair Jerome Powell's mixed but upbeat message could not offset the anxiety caused by the Middle East conflict. Stocks Retreat Markets began the week rattled by further escalation in the...
Read MorePoliticizing Business is Costly_2024-04-19
Bowyer Research analyzes corporate performance data and concludes that corporate politicking on divisive social issues raises legitimate financial concerns.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Startled By Inflation, Conflict_2024-04-15
Stocks fell last week as investors sorted through conflicting inflation reports and assessed geopolitical tensions. Inflation Spooks Markets On Wednesday, the March Consumer Price Index (CPI) report rattled markets, revealing that...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Comments Stir the Pot for Stocks_2024-04-08
Stocks dropped last week as investors focused on “what's next” for interest rates after mixed comments from multiple Fed officials. Fed Officials Weigh In Stocks struggled out of the gate again last week, ending Monday and Tuesday in...
Read MoreInspire ETFs Launches New Low-Cost ETF
Exciting news to announce from Inspire ETFs with the launch of PTL, a large cap ETF which tracks an index of the 500 largest companies that pass the Inspire biblical values screens. As Robert Netzly, CEO of Inspire ETFs recently told...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Narrowly Higher_2024_04-01
Stocks were narrowly higher for the week as investors digested mixed economic news about consumer confidence. All three of the major averages posted gains for Q1 2024. Stocks Finish Strong Markets slipped for the first half of the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Fed Talk Boosts Stocks_2024-03-25
Stocks posted their best week of the year, sparked by news that the dovish Fed decided to keep rates steady and signaled three rate cuts were still possible this year. Stocks Bounce Back As widely expected, the Fed left rates...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Second Week of Stock Retreat_2024-03-18
Stocks fell for the second straight week on inflation concerns despite a report on consumer prices that was initially well received by investors. Stocks Slide Tuesday was the only bright spot during the week as stock prices rose after...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets Take a Breather After Mixed Week_2024-03-11
Stocks were down for the week as investors appeared to take some profits and traders parsed Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s Congressional testimony. Markets Wobble Stocks had a rough start to the week, with the Dow, S&P 500, and...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Tech and AI Lead Another Advancing Week_2024-03-04
Stocks extended their tech-led advance last week as signs of a resilient and still-enthusiastic consumer boosted momentum. Nasdaq Sets New High Stocks traded in a narrow band early in the week but ended the five-trading sessions with...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Hit New Highs on AI's Promise_2024-02-26
Stocks vaulted to new heights last week on the back of an artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor company, marking investors’ belief that AI has the potential to transform the U.S. economy. Stocks Rally to Record Highs Stocks...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Market Retreats on Inflation, Economic Reports._2024-02-19
Stocks fell last week as investors reacted to disappointing inflation updates and other economic reports that fell short of estimates. Stocks Snap Winning Streak Markets were quiet Monday but opened lower Tuesday in response to the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: S&P Hits Record High_2024-02-12
The stock market experienced solid gains last week, concluding the trading week on a positive note, thanks to robust corporate reports and favorable inflation news; this propelled the S&P 500 Index to achieve a new record high at the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Move Past Mixed Fed Message_2024-02-05
Stocks pushed higher last week as investors cheered mega-cap tech corporate reports and a better-than-expected employment report. Stocks at New Highs At the beginning of the week, stocks surged, anticipating fourth-quarter corporate...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Excitement Around Big Tech Continues_2024-01-29
Stocks continued their upward climb last week as excitement around big tech continued; positive economic reports stoked investors’ belief that the Federal Reserve has pulled off a soft landing. Stocks Power Ahead Big tech was...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Big Win For Big Tech_2024-01-22
Stocks finished higher last week, with big tech again leading amid lingering uncertainty over how continued economic strength would influence the Fed’s rate decision. Stocks Dip, Then Rally Stock prices dropped early in...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Begin to See the Light in Upbeat Week._2024-01-15
Stocks pushed higher last week, led by big tech names and boosted by December inflation reports that were mixed but positive enough to shore up investor confidence in Fed rate cuts this year. Stocks Rock and Roll It was a rocky week...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Enter 2024 in Doubtful Mood_2024-01-08
Stocks retreated in the first trading week of 2024, struggling a bit after a celebratory end to last year as investors second-guessed Fed signals and fretted over lingering inflation concerns. New Year Blues Stocks got off to a rough...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: S&P Ends 2023 Up 24%_2024-01-01
Stocks posted a slight gain last week amid a shortage of news and light holiday trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.49%. The Nasdaq Composite index advanced 0.32% for...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Investors Boost Stocks Ahead of Holiday Week_2023-12-25
Investor optimism and fears of missing out on future gains propelled stocks higher in the last full week of trading before year-end. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.22%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.75%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally on Fed, Inflation News_2023-12-18
Markets reacted positively last week to cooler inflation and the idea of potential rate cuts next year, adding to the gains of the market’s year-end rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.92%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Spark Late Week Rally_2023-12-11
A late-week, two-day rally left stocks higher, adding to November’s gains as the last month of trading for 2023 began. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was flat (+0.01%), while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.21%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise as Bond Yields Fall_2023-12-04
A Friday rally turned an otherwise mixed week for stocks into a solid performance. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 2.42%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.77%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose 0.38% for the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Short Week Strong for Stocks_2023-11-27
Investor enthusiasm for stocks remained strong last week, buoyed by declining bond yields in a holiday-abbreviated trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 1.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 1.00%. The...
Read More2022/2023 Inspire Corporate Engagement Report_2023-11-27
Inspire makes progress on freedom of speech and religion and holds Target and other companies accountable for promoting divisive, political agendas at shareholder expense.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: November Rally Continues_2023-11-20
Stocks extended their November rally last week as investors cheered lower-than-forecast inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.94%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.24%. The Nasdaq Composite index rose...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally Friday; Powell Cautious On Progress_2023-11-13
A powerful Friday rally left stocks higher last week, extending the market’s early November gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.65%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.31%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rise, Jobs Cool_2023-11-06
Stocks ripped higher last week on a dramatic retreat in bond yields triggered by easing inflation and a slowing labor market. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 5.07%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 surged 5.85%. The...
Read MoreWhat Lies Beneath Your Investments_2023-11-02
It is tempting to ignore what lies beneath the ticker symbols on our brokerage statements. But we cannot take the shot that numbs us to the real pain and suffering on the other end of our investment activities.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Retreat on Cautious Earnings Reports_2023-10-30
Amid a busy week of corporate earnings reports, stocks slumped on cautious earnings guidance, fears of higher interest rates, and growing anxiety over the increasing amount of Treasury bonds and notes coming to market. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Retreat Despite Solid Earnings _2023-10-23
Rising bond yields and uncertainty over whether this was the close of the Fed’s rate-hike cycle dragged markets lower last week despite solid corporate earnings results. The Dow Jones Industrial Average sank 1.61%, while the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets React to Turmoil in Middle East, Inflation Concerns._2023-10-16
Stocks ended mixed last week amid the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East and higher-than-expected inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.20%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 rose 0.45%. But the Nasdaq...
Read MoreFaith-Focused Investing Gathers Momentum_2023-10-16
Faith-focused investing keeps growing as Christian investors demand their faith values are reflected in their portfolios. In fact, Morningstar reported in a recent article that in late 2021, Christian-focused funds overtook Shariah...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Rally After Strong Jobs Report_2023-10-09
A Friday rally overcame a shaky week, sending stocks mostly higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.30% for the week. Meanwhile, the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 0.48%, and the Nasdaq Composite index added 1.60% for...
Read MoreGSE (God, Spirit, Ecosystem)>ESG(Environment, Social, Governance)_2023-10-06
Over the past decade, we have seen an explosion in so-called "ESG" mutual and exchange traded funds. These funds seek to only include investment in companies that are "clean" from a Environmental, Social, and Governance...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Bond Yields Rise; Government Shutdown Looms_2023-10-02
Rising bond yields and government shutdown fears left stocks in mostly negative territory for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.74%. The Nasdaq Composite index was...
Read MoreInspire Investing Ranked one of America’s Top RIAs for 2023 by FA Magazine_2023-09-27
Inspire Investing Ranked one of America’s Top RIAs for 2023 by FA Magazine This marks the 7th year in a row that biblically responsible investing firm, Inspire Investing, has ranked as a top RIA by FA Magazine.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks End Summer with Gloomy News_2023-09-25
Rising bond yields and fears of a government shutdown hammered stocks last week, with technology shares bearing the brunt of the retreat. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.89%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 2.93%...
Read MoreFinancial Advisor IQ: Faith-Based Advisors Seek Freedom at Work_2023-09-19
Inspire Advisors was recently highlighted by Financial Advisor IQ in the excellent article below. I'm so grateful to have joined Inspire Advisors as a Founding Advisor a few years ago so that I could better assist individuals and families!
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Stand Still, Awaiting Fed_2023-09-18
Stocks ended the week roughly where they began as investors digested a mixed set of new economic data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.12%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index fell...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Will the Fed Raise Interest Rates?_2023-09-11
Concerns that the Fed may raise interest rates soured investor sentiment, sending stocks lower in a holiday-shortened trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.75%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 declined 1.29%....
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: September Stocks Open In Positive Territory_2023-09-04
Falling bond yields–spurred by weak economic data–helped lift stocks to weekly gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.43%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 gained 2.50%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Retreat; Powell Talk Goes Hawk_2023-08-28
Stocks fluctuated last week, jostled by fitful bond yields and headline news, before ending strongly following Fed Chair Powell’s comments on the monetary outlook. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.45%, while the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Weather Summer Storm of News and Indicators_2023-08-21
Stocks extended their August declines last week as higher yields and weak economic data out of China soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 2.21%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 2.11%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Summertime Blues for the Markets_2023-08-14
Positive inflation data failed to lift stocks from their August doldrums last week as economic data and a ratings downgrade soured investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.62%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Raise White Flag to Bad News_2023-08-07
Stocks retreated last week as bond yields increased following the Treasury's announcement indicating “a larger-than-expected funding need” and a downgrade in the federal government’s debt rating. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Jump After Inflation Gauge Cools_2023-07-31
A Friday surge pushed stocks solidly into positive territory last week, ignited by cooling in an inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 0.66%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Advance and Retreat on Mixed News_2023-07-24
Stocks moved to the rhythm of earnings season last week, initially rising on positive earnings surprises and faltering later in the week on key earnings disappointments. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.08%, while the...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Bad News for Bears; Good News Buoys Markets_2023-07-17
Better-than-expected updates last week on consumer and wholesale price inflation buoyed investor sentiment, driving stocks higher and lower bond yields. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.29%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Stumble with CPI on Deck_2023-07-10
Rising concerns about further rate hikes sent stocks lower to kick off the second half of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 retreated 1.16%. The Nasdaq Composite index...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Take Summer Break, Month Remains Strong_2023_06-26
Stocks took a breather last week as investors digested the previous week’s surge and the month-to-date solid gains.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.67%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 1.39%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Stocks Climb After Fed Pause_2023-06-19
Stocks climbed last week as reassuring inflation data boosted investor hopes that the rate-hike cycle was nearing an end amid fresh economic data pointing to continued economic resilience.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.25%,...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Markets March into Positive Territory _2023-06-12Continues.
A late-week rally sent stocks into positive territory, with the S&P 500 index closing just shy of the 4,300 mark.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.34%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 0.39%. The Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreAvoiding Woke Investments
Eric Metaxas recently interviewed Inspire Advisors CEO, Robert Netzly about woke investments and how to avoid them in your investment portfolio. Watch the full interview below:
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Debt Deal Relieves Market Worries_2023_06_05
Stocks surged higher in the closing days of a holiday-shortened trading week, ignited by a political resolution on raising the debt ceiling and a strong employment report.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.02%, while the Standard...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Debt Talks Optimism Keeps Eyes on D.C._2023_05_29
Markets moved in sync last week with perceived movement in debt ceiling talks, weakening early in the week and then surging on news of progress. A solid quarterly report and guidance from a mega-cap technology company helped with...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Despite Stall, Debt Deal Optimism Cheers Markets_2023-05-22
Stocks rallied last week, propelled by growing optimism over reaching a deal on raising the debt ceiling and avoiding a technical debt default by the U.S.The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged 0.38% higher, while the Standard &...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Attention Turns to the Debt Ceiling
Stocks were mixed last week as good inflation news was offset by mounting debt ceiling concerns and rekindled regional banking fears.The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 1.11%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.29%. The...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Friday Rally Trims Losses; CPI Report Next Week_2023-05-10
A Friday rebound, triggered by a big tech company’s earnings beat and a strong jobs report, shaved much of the week’s accumulated losses.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.24%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Lower inflation lifts spirits in uneven week_2023-04-17
The combination of an improving inflation outlook resulted in a week of uneven, albeit positive, performance, in which cyclical and financial stocks rallied while technology, real estate, and utilities lagged. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Hiring Cools; Recession Fears Rise.
Stocks ended a shortened week of trading mixed amid revived recession fears on Wall Street triggered by weak economic data.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.63%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.10%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: New Year's Rally in Reply to Positive Economic News
A strong Friday rally triggered by fresh signs of moderating inflation pushed stocks into positive territory to begin the new year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.46%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 advanced 1.45%....
Read MoreInspire: Investors Renounce Wall Street "ESG" Investing
While in Idaho this week visiting Inspire's home office, we discussed our recent renouncement of woke "ESG" investing...Investors Renouncing "ESG" Investinghttps://www.inspireadvisors...
Read MoreInspire Investing Makes Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Company List Three Years In A Row
Boise, Idaho, August 29, 2022 — For the third year in a row now, Inspire Impact Group, parent company of faith-based investing industry leader, Inspire Investing, has made the Inc. 5000 list – the most prestigious...
Read MoreBloomberg: What Would Jesus Buy? Inspire Investing Charts Course for $2 Billion Faith-Driven Fund
Being an investment blog of current and recent news regarding Inspire or the faith driven, Biblically Responsible (BRI) movement.
Read MoreWeekly Market Insights: Unexpected Trading Rattles Market
Despite strong corporate earnings, stock prices closed lower after a volatile week of trading triggered by unprecedented activity in a handful of companies. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 3.27%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreDecember 7, 2020 - Is Stimulus Near?
The Week on Wall Street Stocks marched higher last week on an improving outlook for the passage of a fiscal stimulus package. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on 1.67%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreNovember 30, 2020 - Dow Hits 30,000
The Week on Wall Street Stocks surged last week, ignited by another COVID-19 vaccine announcement, encouraging economic data, and the easing of political uncertainty.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.21%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreNovember 23, 2020 - New Infections Increase Anxiety
The Week on Wall StreetDespite news of another COVID-19 vaccine candidate, stocks were mixed amid investor anxiety over an increase in new infections and economic lockdowns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.73%, while the...
Read MoreNovember 16, 2020 - Vaccine Triggers Rally
The Week on Wall Street News of a COVID-19 vaccine ignited a rally in economically sensitive stocks and a broad retreat in technology companies last week, though enthusiasm was tempered by reports of rising new infections and fresh...
Read MoreNovember 9, 2020 - Markets React to Election
The Week on Wall Street Stocks soared last week as investors anticipated that a split Congress would raise legislative hurdles to changing corporate taxes and adjusting regulatory oversight of big technology companies.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreNovember 2, 2020 - No Stimulus, Stocks Lag
The Week on Wall Street Stock prices dropped last week as hopes for a fiscal stimulus bill faded and investors focused on rising COVID-19 infections, here and abroad. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 6.47%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreOctober 26, 2020 - No Stimulus, Stocks Lower
The Week on Wall Street The failure to reach an agreement on a new fiscal stimulus bill soured investor sentiment and sent stocks modestly lower for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreOctober 19, 2020 - A Difficult Week for Stocks
The Week on Wall Street Stocks treaded water last week amid fading prospects for a stimulus bill, fears of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, and increasing political and regulatory pressures on Big Tech companies.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreOctober 12, 2020 - Stocks Rise, Stimulus Uncertain
The Week on Wall Street Stocks staged a powerful rally last week, riding a wave of optimism over the prospect of the passage of a new fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreOctober 5, 2020 - Special Update: Quarterly Report
The Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced last week, propelled by hopes that legislators may reach an agreement for a new fiscal stimulus package and optimism generated by a few corporate deal announcements and initial public offerings....
Read MoreSeptember 28, 2020 - Stocks Mixed Amid Uncertainty
The Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreSeptember 21, 2020 - Tech Sector Slip Continues
The Week on Wall Street Stocks slipped as the technology sector remained under pressure and a mid-week announcement by the Federal Reserve failed to inspire investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.03%, while the Standard...
Read MoreSeptember 14, 2020 - Stocks Continue Downward Slide
The Week on Wall Street Stocks traveled a volatile path last week as investors appeared concerned about the upcoming elections, an uncertain economy, and more delays with additional fiscal stimulus. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreSeptember 8, 2020 - Stocks Stall as Recovery Continues
The Week on Wall Street A late week sell-off sent stocks broadly lower as investors took some profits after stocks reached all-time highs earlier in the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.82%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreAugust 31, 2020 - Stocks Power Higher
The Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced relentlessly last week on positive COVID-19 developments, encouraging economic data, and a supportive policy shift in the Fed’s approach to its target inflation rate. The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreAugust 24, 2020 - Stocks Reach New Highs
The Week on Wall Street Stocks powered to another week of gains as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite set multiple new record highs along the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was essentially unchanged while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreAugust 17, 2020 - Stocks and Consumer Prices Rise
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices drifted higher in an otherwise quiet news week, as a slowdown in new COVID-19 cases outweighed a Congressional impasse on a new fiscal-spending measure. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.81%...
Read MoreAugust 10, 2020 - Earnings Season Winds Down
The Week on Wall StreetOverlooking stalled efforts by Congress to pass a new fiscal stimulus bill, stocks marched higher last week with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the way and the NASDAQ Composite setting multiple fresh record...
Read MoreAugust 3, 2020 - Stocks Have Mixed Reaction
The Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week amid a busy week of earnings, some troubling economic data, and seemingly little progress on a new fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the...
Read MoreJuly 20, 2020 - Stocks See a Mixed Week
The Week on Wall StreetStocks were mixed last week as investors reacted to positive economic data, progress on a COVID-19 vaccine, and the continued nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.29%,...
Read MoreJuly 13, 2020 - Stocks Gain After Volatile Week
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices notched solid gains last week, looking past an increase in COVID-19 cases and any potential economic concerns raised by the trend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.96%, while the...
Read MoreNew Monthly Economic & Market Commentary for July 2020
Monthly Educational Video Script for July 2020 We are pleased to publish our first Monthly Economic & Market Commentary video for July 2020 featuring Jay Richardson. Below is the video text. "Hello, folks! This is JAY RICHARDSON from...
Read MoreJuly 6, 2020 - Special Update: Quarterly Report
The Week on Wall StreetIn a holiday-shortened week, stock prices turned higher as encouraging economic data outweighed an increase in COVID-19 cases and a rollback in economic re-openings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.25%,...
Read MoreJune 29, 2020 - Rise in Cases Inspires Turbulence
The Week on Wall StreetA jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%,...
Read MoreJune 22, 2020 - U.S. Economy Gains Momentum
The Week on Wall StreetStocks moved higher last week on news of more Federal Reserve market support and diminished concerns that new COVID-19 cases might lead to another economic shutdown. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.04%,...
Read MoreJune 15, 2020 - Markets React to Fed Report
The Week on Wall StreetInvestor sentiment turned negative last week, amid an increasing number of COVID-19 cases in states where reopening has been underway as well as a subdued economic forecast from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreJune 8, 2020 - Recovery Optimism Builds
The Week on Wall StreetA positive jobs report sent stocks soaring last Friday, capping a solid week as evidence of a global economic recovery outweighed concerns over civil unrest and tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreJune 1, 2020 - Optimism for Re-Opening
The Week on Wall StreetThe shortened week, which began with a powerful two-day rally of trading, was enough to drive the markets into another week of solid gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.75%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreMay 26, 2020 - Markets React to Positive Outlook
The Week on Wall StreetUpbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while...
Read MoreMay 18, 2020 - Powell Somber on Recovery
The Week on Wall StreetStocks drifted lower last week, weighed down by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's unsettling comments on the economy and signs of renewed tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.65%,...
Read MoreMay 11, 2020 - Jobs Down, Stocks Up
The Week on Wall StreetDespite a historic downturn in employment, stocks managed to climb higher last week as investors were emboldened by the pace of economic re-openings, both here and abroad.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2...
Read MoreMay 4, 2020 - Economic Normalization Near?
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices ended the week slightly lower, despite news of positive results from a test trial of a COVID-19 drug treatment and several states easing their economic lockdowns. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreApril 27, 2020 - Markets React to Oil Prices
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices bounced around last week as investors reacted to wild swings in the price of oil and reports that called into question the efficacy of two potential virus treatments.The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreApril 20, 2020 - First Post-COVID-19 Data Arrives
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices pushed higher last week as news of a White House plan to reopen the economy and reports of a potential COVID-19 treatment helped the market overcome weak economic data and an ugly start to the...
Read MoreApril 13, 2020 - Markets Rally
The Week on Wall StreetThe stock market staged a broad rally this week, buoyed by the prospect that COVID-19's grip on the nation may be easing and news of another Federal Reserve program to help stabilize businesses.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreApril 6, 2020 - Special Update: Quarterly Report
The Week on Wall StreetModest declines in stock prices this week masked the volatile inter- and intraday price swings as investors digested poor economic data and a warning from the president that the worst days of the COVID-19...
Read MoreMarch 30, 2020 - Congress Approves Stimulus
An open-ended commitment by the Federal Reserve to support American businesses and capital markets along with the passage of a $2 trillion aid package improved investor sentiment and drove a strong rally in stock prices. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreMarch 23, 2020 - More Coronavirus Volatility
The Week on Wall StreetThe stock market suffered through another volatile week as it wrestled with the health and economic fallout of the domestic spread of the coronavirus. Swift and decisive actions by the Federal Reserve and policy...
Read MoreMarch 16, 2020 - Volatility Continues
The Week on Wall StreetMarkets remained exceptionally volatile, buffeted by the spreading impact of coronavirus, uncertain responses from federal policymakers, and the sudden drop in oil prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 10...
Read MoreMarch 9, 2020 - Rallies and Retreats
The Week on Wall StreetHeightened coronavirus fears, falling yields, and Super Tuesday primary results sent stocks on a rollercoaster ride of sharp price swings, leaving stocks marginally higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreMarch 2, 2020 - The Virus Becomes the Focus
The Week on Wall StreetStocks fell sharply last week as Wall Street considered how the coronavirus outbreak might influence global business activity and household spending.The selloff became a correction for the U.S. markets. The S&P...
Read MoreFebruary 18, 2020 - Weekly Gains for Big Benchmarks
The Week on Wall StreetDaily headlines about the coronavirus had little impact on stock market averages last week. Earnings and mergers had more influence. All three Wall Street benchmarks improved. The Nasdaq Composite rose 2.21%,...
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2020 - Stocks Bounce Back
The Week on Wall StreetStocks advanced four days out of five during the past market week, erasing the losses of the week before. The Nasdaq Composite surged 4.04%, the S&P 500 3.17%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average 3.00%. Foreign...
Read MoreFebruary 3, 2020 - Equities Slip on Virus Concerns
The Week on Wall StreetStock benchmarks declined for a second straight week as coronavirus news tempered risk appetite.The S&P 500 fell 2.14% on the week. The Nasdaq Composite dipped 1.76%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 2.55%....
Read MoreJanuary 27, 2020 - Stocks End the Week Lower
The Week on Wall StreetStock prices fell last week as investors considered the potential health and economic risks of the flu-like coronavirus.Foreign stock markets, as tracked by the broad MSCI EAFE index, fell 1.03% for the week....
Read MoreJanuary 21, 2020 - Fresh Record Highs
The Week on Wall StreetTraders were in an upbeat mood last week, reacting to news out of Washington: the signing of the phase-one trade deal between the U.S. and China as well as the Senate passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement...
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2020 - Further Gains for Stocks
The Week on Wall StreetThe market had a choppy five days, with traders reacting to geopolitical developments and weaker-than-expected jobs data. Even so, the three major U.S. equity indices posted weekly gains and continued their...
Read MoreJanuary 6, 2020 - Concerns About Oil
The Week on Wall Street Stocks descended from record highs Friday, as traders reacted to a U.S. drone strike that killed Iran's top military officer. Oil prices rose more than 3% following the breaking news.[1] Wall Street benchmarks...
Read MoreDecember 30, 2019 - The Year in Review
What Drove the Markets? Four factors influenced investment performance in 2019: a shift in U.S. monetary policy, the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China, earnings, and the economy. Stocks reached record highs in 2019. The...
Read MoreDecember 16, 2019 - Phase-One Trade Deal Reached
The Week on Wall Street The U.S. and China announced a limited trade agreement last week. That news lifted U.S. and foreign stocks, leading to weekly gains. Advancing 0.91% on the week, the Nasdaq Composite outperformed the S&P 500...
Read MoreDecember 9, 2019 - Stocks Ride Out a Choppy Week
The Week on Wall Street Key Wall Street benchmarks were up and down last week – or rather down and then up. A Tuesday retreat was offset by a Friday rally spurred by the Department of Labor’s November jobs report. While the S&P 500...
Read MoreDecember 2, 2019 - November Concludes With Gains
The Week on Wall Street As November wrapped up, U.S. equity benchmarks advanced. Stocks were again aided by a sense of optimism that a preliminary U.S.-China trade deal could be near. For the week, the Nasdaq Composite added 1.87%;...
Read MoreNovember 25, 2019 - Major Indices Move Lower
The Week on Wall Street Stocks declined last week as mixed signals emerged about the progress of U.S.-China trade negotiations. The three major Wall Street benchmarks all took weekly losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0...
Read MoreNovember 18, 2019 - A New Dow Milestone
The Week on Wall StreetStock benchmarks were little changed for much of last week, but a rally occurred Friday after news broke that the U.S. and China could be closing in on the first phase of a new trade pact. At Friday's close, the...
Read MoreNovember 11, 2019 - Dow, S&P 500 Extend Win Streaks
The Week on Wall Street Domestic and international stocks rose last week. Risk appetite outweighed concerns about the state of U.S.-China trade discussions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq Composite, S&P 500, and MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreNovember 4, 2019 - More Historic Highs
The Week on Wall Street A better-than-forecast jobs report prompted a stock market rally Friday, two days after traders witnessed another interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite ended the week...
Read MoreOctober 28, 2019 - S&P 500 Nearly Makes History
The Week on Wall Street The S&P 500 came within 0.1% of a record close Friday. Stocks were lifted last week by positive news on U.S.-China trade negotiations, plus earnings announcements. The Nasdaq Composite posted the largest weekly...
Read MoreOctober 21, 2019 - Nasdaq Composite, S&P 500 Rise
The Week on Wall Street Earnings helped give the Nasdaq Composite and S&P 500 a slight lift last week, offsetting investor disappointment over the small scope of the preliminary U.S.-China trade deal reached on October 11. Blue chips...
Read MoreOctober 14, 2019 - Trade Winds Move the Market
The Week on Wall Street Stock prices pushed higher last week, as investors remained hyper-focused on any new developments with the U.S. trade negotiations with China. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.91%, while the...
Read MoreOctober 7, 2019 - Special Update: Quarterly Report
The Week on Wall Street The fourth quarter started with a mixed week for equities. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.92% for the week; the S&P 500, 0.33%. In contrast, the Nasdaq Composite improved 0.54%. Overseas stocks pulled...
Read MoreSeptember 30, 2019 - Benchmarks End Week Lower
The Week on Wall Street Stocks retreated last week. Traders worried that the formal impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump might distract White House officials from their pursuit of a trade deal with China, and shift the focus...
Read MoreSeptember 23, 2019 - Stocks Stage a Modest Retreat
The Week on Wall Street Investors reacted to two major news items last week, one far more of a surprise than the other. The Federal Reserve did indeed make a rate cut, matching Wall Street expectations. Drone strikes on two of the...
Read MoreSeptember 16, 2019 - Dow Logs 8-Day Win Streak
The Week on Wall Street Stocks edged toward all-time peaks during a relatively calm week marked by easing trade tensions. Friday marked the eighth straight daily advance for the Dow Jones Industrial Average.[1] Small-cap shares, as...
Read MoreSeptember 9, 2019 - Dow, Nasdaq, S&P 500 Advance
The Week on Wall Street Stocks rose last week, with help from two developments: the announcement of further U.S.-China trade talks as well as August hiring and manufacturing numbers that seemed to bolster the argument for a rate cut...
Read MoreSeptember 3, 2019 - Stocks Rally as August Ends
The Week on Wall Street Fears of an impasse in the U.S.-China trade dispute lessened last week. While additional U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports were scheduled to take effect on September 1, China's government communicated that it...
Read MoreAugust 26, 2019 - China Announces More Tariffs
The Week on Wall Street Traders assumed that the week's biggest news event would be Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's speech at the annual Jackson Hole banking conference. Instead, China seized the headlines by announcing new...
Read MoreAugust 19, 2019 - Equities Face Some Volatility
The Week on Wall Street U.S. stock indices saw significant ups and downs last week, with traders looking for economic cues from Treasury yields and also developments in the tariff fight between the U.S. and China. The S&P 500 lost 1...
Read More