The third quarter of 2025 was marked by steady gains across equity markets as optimism about easing inflation and expectations for eventual Federal Reserve policy shifts outweighed lingering trade and geopolitical uncertainties. After the volatile rebound of Q2, investor sentiment remained resilient through the summer months.

The second quarter of 2025 was defined by a sharp, and at times uneasy, market rebound, after the dramatic selloff at the end of Q1. The quarter began with markets still digesting the impact of the Trump Administration’s April 2nd tariff announcements, which implemented significantly higher and broader tariffs than the market was originally expecting.  However, within a week, all tariffs were reduced to 10% on all countries except China, while “90 day” negotiations commenced.

The first quarter of 2025 was marked by significant volatility, largely driven by escalating trade tensions under the new U.S. administration and fluctuating expectations for Federal Reserve policy. The original tariffs levied on Canada, Mexico, and China compounded these challenges, as investors grappled with evolving dynamics and fragile market sentiment.

Troy Davidson has joined the firm as a Wealth Advisor, with a focus on serving high- and ultra-high-net-worth clients. He will work closely with clients to provide for their holistic financial needs, including complex estate planning, tax minimization, and wealth management as viewed through a multi-generational prism.

More investment options, more complexity. The expanding universe of alternative investments demands specialized knowledge and smart technology to help identify and access the right opportunities for each client.

When it comes to filing taxes, ensuring you’re well-prepared can mean the difference between significant savings and costly mistakes. Whether you’re filing as an individual or through your business entity, here are 10 tax tips to keep in mind whether you are filing taxes for this year, or the years ahead. 

During heightened economic uncertainty, rising inflation, and market volatility, alternative asset classes provide a compelling case for inclusion in a well-diversified portfolio. By allocating capital to private equity, venture capital, real estate, and private credit, investors can access higher returns, lower market correlation, and enhanced income opportunities.

Market volatility is something that all investors need to deal with. While every financial situation is different, at Ballast Rock Private Wealth we believe that guidance around mindset and approach will help many investors better deal with the inescapable ups and downs that investing in public markets brings.  

In 2025, diversification will continue to be the key to a healthy portfolio. As we look ahead to 2025, navigating global market complexities requires a disciplined and proactive approach to portfolio management.

While stocks were unable to sustain their post-election highs, all major indices managed to close the quarter with modest gains. The Federal Reserve’s December decision to cut the Fed Funds rate by 25 bps—the second cut of the quarter—highlighted its ongoing commitment to supporting economic growth amid a challenging macroeconomic environment. 

Year End Letter from Ballast Rock Private Wealth CEO Andrew Mescon discussing growth of the team and growth of the BRPW business.

Wealth Management Executive Jamie Carroll, Joins Ballast Rock Private Wealth as a Wealth Advisor. Jamie, who will be based in Monroe, LA, joins us from Merrill Lynch, where she was a Financial Advisor.