George Hosfield, CFA, discusses Ferguson Wellman's quarterly strategy titled, "Inflation's Flame Flickers," which addresses the narrow market leadership, the impact of higher interest rates on inflation and how assets are priced at this stage of the economic cycle.
George Hosfield, CFA, discusses the firm's quarterly strategy titled "Stalemate," which highlights the Fed's ongoing battle to tame inflation along with our views on the health of the banking industry and capital market expectations for the balance of the year.
Director and Chief Investment Officer George Hosfield, CFA, discusses the Fed raising interest rates, peaking inflation and our view on equities and volatility across all asset classes in our Investment Strategy titled, “Balancing Act.”
Opening a Washington office had long been a goal for Ferguson Wellman. In 2021, as businesses globally grappled with remote work transitions, we established our first office in the state.
Even the best estate plan will go sideways without the right fiduciaries ready to step in and manage your affairs when you are no longer able to do so, whether by reason of death or incapacity during lifetime. It can be difficult to make these selections, considering family dynamics, time burden, availability, cost and the skills required. Thoughtful consideration in advance will be a gift to your loved ones when they may be called to enact your wishes.
It is easy to put off creating or updating an estate plan. Afterall, most of us believe we have at least a bit more time before it will be necessary and the excuses are obvious and plentiful. Herein, we will outline common impediments and corresponding benefits of a relevant plan with the intent of encouraging us all to take on the challenge.
When we think of estate planning, we often think of legal documents, trusts and tax strategies. Often, the most challenging aspect of creating a successful plan is the human element: your family’s unique dynamics. The good news is that many common conflicts are predictable and can be reduced with planning and clear communication.
Software stocks have experienced a selloff of over 30% since October 2025, largely driven by uncertainty around the competitive risks of artificial intelligence (AI). While AI will have a significant impact on software companies, the more relevant question for investors is understanding if it is an opportunity or a risk for individual businesses.
In the first quarter, several market-disrupting events took place: the Supreme Court struck down International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs, war began in the Middle East, oil prices rose over 70%, expectations for two Federal Reserve rate cuts evaporated and AI substitution fears triggered a 20% selloff in software stocks, the S&P 500’s second-largest industry. While none of these are positive developments for the capital markets, the fact that the S&P 500 is only down 4% year-to-date suggests the economic fallout may be much less than the current headlines suggest (as of March 31, 2026).
This week, capital markets’ behavior continued its recent adoption of a “Tortoise and the Hare”-style dynamic, with fast-moving geopolitical headlines driving short-term volatility, while underlying economic trends evolve more gradually.
Rising oil prices, driven by the war in Iran, have reintroduced a familiar dynamic into financial markets. While the sharp increase in gas prices may be the most visible impact for most Americans, additional adjustments across currencies and interest rates have also been notable. The signal from oil has been clear, but the downstream effects remain much less so.
Overshadowed by the ongoing selloff in perceived AI-disrupted industries, the legal landscape of U.S. trade policy changed significantly last Friday. In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the administration cannot use the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to unilaterally impose tariffs.
Investors returned from the long weekend to something more jarring than the usual post-holiday lull: a burst of geopolitical theater that triggered the sharpest pullback in the S&P 500 since last October.
This week, investors and capital markets received a dose of holiday cheer as major U.S. stock indices recorded back-to-back highs in the two days before Christmas market closures. Stronger-than-expected economic growth during the summer helped drive the momentum, offsetting fresh evidence that consumers are growing more uncertain about their economic futures.
The holiday season is in full swing, and there’s a certain energy in the air that feels unmistakable. Calendars fill with gatherings, homes glow a little brighter and routines soften as people pause to reflect on the year behind them. The gift lists and travel plans often involve higher spending and reveal deeper feelings among consumers.
As November begins, markets find themselves navigating unprecedented territory. The government shutdown has now stretched to 38 days, the longest in U.S. history. While Washington remains gridlocked over healthcare subsidies and spending priorities, the Federal Reserve is operating in the dark at a moment when clarity is paramount.
This week, the Congressional Budget Office released its estimate of the federal government’s fiscal year 2025 budget deficit. Nine months ago, there were high expectations that policymakers would move to reduce the deficit spending we’ve seen over the last 25 years.
As we approach the close of 2025, we’re reminded of a significant milestone—welcoming our first Octavia Group client five years ago. During a recent strategy meeting, our team reflected on the evolution of our family office, sharing insights into our growth, expanding services, and future plans—all with the aim of consistently exceeding our clients’ expectations.
