AI’s Impact, Middle East Conflict & Market Volatility

AI’s Impact, Middle East Conflict & Market Volatility

February may have been the shortest month of the year, but it delivered no shortage of market-moving events. Bob Weisse joins Sammy Azzouz to break down what’s driving today’s financial markets—and what it could mean for investors.   * A pessimistic report from Cetrini Research, 2028 Global Intelligence Crisis, raised concerns about artificial intelligence’s economic impact, sparking stock market sell-offs, sector rotations, and widespread debate. Sammy and Bob share their perspective on the findings and the broader implications of technological disruption. * Escalating conflict in the Middle East prompted swift reactions in both stock and bond markets. We discuss what long-term investors should consider amid heightened volatility and uncertainty. * Bond yields have risen while bond prices have declined. We explain what’s driving this unusual dynamic in fixed income markets.   Visit us at www.heritagefinancial.net

Investing in Transition: Fed Leadership, Cycles & Tech Disruption

In this month’s Market Update, CIO Bob Weisse joins Sammy Azzouz to unpack what’s driving today’s financial markets—and what it could mean for investors going forward. Tune in as they discuss: * President Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh as Fed Chairman * If the economy appears strong, why are rate cuts still on the table? * Where we are in the current market cycle—and how much longer markets could run * Uncharted territory: how sweeping technological change could reshape companies, economies, and investment opportunities * Why U.S. value stocks are leading the market (up ~5% YTD) * A practical primer on foreign fixed income: what it is and when it may make sense in a portfolio Send your questions to wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net [wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net]

2025 Reflections and 2026 Forecasts

In this first episode of the new year, Heritage Financial’s CIO, Bob Weisse, joins CEO Sammy Azzouz to reflect on 2025 market performance and share insights for the year ahead.   2025 was a strong year for investors. U.S. equities delivered a third consecutive year of double-digit returns, international equities finally outperformed the U.S., and fixed income produced solid positive returns.   So, what’s in store for 2026? Bob examines emerging trends and outlines Heritage’s 2026 Capital Market Assumptions—our long-term return forecasts—and explains how to evaluate the data, balance risk and return expectations, and use these assumptions to inform portfolio allocation decisions.   Plus, with gold shining brightly in 2025, Bob shares his perspective on investing in gold, including potential risks and returns, when it may add value, and when it may fall short. Send your questions to wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net [wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net] Visit us at www.heritagefinancial.net [https://publish.blubrry.com/s-1463108/episodes/e-150878571/edit/www.heritagefinancial.net]

Inside Private Markets, Data Trends, and AI

Bob Weisse, Chief Investment Officer at Heritage Financial, joins President & CEO Sammy Azzouz for a timely conversation on private markets. Together, they break down private credit and private equity, explore emerging risks across these asset classes, and share expectations for what lies ahead. The discussion then turns to our 2025 market outlook—what was forecasted, what actually unfolded, and how current market and economic conditions are shaping future expectations. Bob offers his perspective on: * What’s driving weakness in today’s labor market * Whether tariff concerns and Fed fears were overblown * Whether we’re in an AI bubble * What the data suggests for the future of international equities—and more Send your questions to wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net [wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net] Visit us at www.heritagefinancial.net [www.heritagefinancial.net]

All the Presidents' Money

We often think of U.S. presidents as financially savvy and immune to money worries—but the truth is, they’re a lot like us: each striving in their own way to achieve the elusive “American Dream.” Some built wealth through discipline and strategy, while others struggled to manage it. In this episode, Megan Gorman, founding partner of Chequers Financial Management and author of All the Presidents’ Money: How the Men Who Governed America Governed Their Money [https://www.amazon.com/All-Presidents-Money-Governed-America/dp/B0D3628TH4], shares insights from her deep dive into the personal finances of more than 30 U.S. presidents. From frugal founders to big spenders, Megan reveals which presidents built fortunes, who faltered, and how some first couples balanced each other’s financial strengths and weaknesses. Tune in for a fascinating look at how America’s leaders handled their money—perfect for history buffs and personal finance fans alike. Send your questions to wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net [wealthybehavior@heritagefinancial.net] And, don’t miss our free ebook and video course, How To Build Your Next Million [https://go.heritagefinancial.net/how-to-build-your-next-million-ebook-video-course-0]—packed with expert insights on saving, investing, and protecting your wealth.