Topel Forman Wealth Management

Stocks are at record highs. Bond yields are near multi-decade highs. That's not a contradiction — it reflects an economy where both earnings growth and interest income are supporting portfolios. Here's how to think about balance in this environment.

https://www.topelwm.com/blog/whats-driving-stocks-bonds-and-all-time-highs

Our weekly market commentary highlights the key developments shaping markets right now. Read the full outlook here: https://www.topelwm.com/weekly-market-commentary

As September begins, investors are navigating a market shaped by strong corporate profits, debates about the promise of artificial intelligence (AI), evolving monetary policy expectations, and ongoing geopolitical conflicts. While volatility has increased at times, the backdrop for investors remains fundamentally well supported. While higher interest rates, ongoing geopolitical conflicts, and midterm election-related policy uncertainty may create short-term market swings, maintaining a disciplined, diversified investment approach remains the most effective way to navigate a dynamic market environment. https://www.topelwm.com/blog/key-factors-influencing-markets-september

Rising deficits and a $40 trillion national debt are dominating headlines. Since 1970, the federal government has run a deficit in all but five years — and portfolios have still grown. Some context on separating fiscal concerns from investment decisions.

https://www.topelwm.com/blog/tariff-refunds-and-the-national-debt-what-they-mean-for-investors

Midterm election years have historically been positive on average for markets — spanning Republican, Democrat, and divided governments alike. The bigger driver of long-term returns isn't who controls Congress, it's the business cycle and interest rates. Full breakdown in our latest post

https://www.topelwm.com/blog/the-midterm-election-and-long-term-investing

The second half of 2026 began with no shortage of uncertainty for investors - the Iran conflict, higher oil prices, and ongoing questions about whether massive artificial intelligence (AI) investment will pay off. Yet, the S&P 500 entered August near all-time highs.

Our latest market update looks at what's holding stocks up: earnings growth beyond the "Magnificent Seven", an AI investment cycle shifting from promise to ex*****on, and an inflation picture that's muddled but poised to improve.

Read more on our blog: https://www.topelwm.com/blog/key-factors-influencing-markets-august

What does a strong financial plan look like today? On August 20, Topel Forman and Topel Forman Wealth Management come together with “A Conversation on Financial Planning for the Future,” part of our 2026 Webinar Series — a practical discussion on goals, investments, and preparing for what's ahead. Register: https://bit.ly/4wqSAYM