Investment Insights

Our 2026 Outlook — It's an AI World — explores the impact of the AI supercycle on the U.S. economy and markets.

While the Federal Reserve cut the Federal Funds rate 0.25% at its October 29th meeting, future rate cuts are “not a foregone conclusion” according to Chairman Powell’s statement.  Marta and Vanessa discuss how low rates can go in 2026.  

The Consumer Price Index rose at an annual rate of 3% through September, giving the Federal Reserve leeway to cut rates at its next meeting on October 29.  Marta and Vanessa discuss the details and implications of this latest inflation signal.

Marta Norton and Vanessa Welch discuss the financial market reaction to the prolonged government shutdown. While the markets have generally overlooked the shutdown, Marta Norton voices caution, citing several risks including historically high equity market valuations. 

Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton looks back on the key themes that influenced the economy and investment markets in 2025.  Many of these themes will remain influential for 2026.  

Is the labor market normalizing from excessive post-pandemic levels? Or is it crashing due to a weakening economy?  In this month's edition, Marta Norton deciphers what recent labor market data is telling us about the strength and sustainability of the economy.

Portfolio Strategist Tom Nun, CFA explains why an independent central bank is so important for our modern economy.

Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton and Vanessa Welch, Vice President of Financial Insights discuss the strength of the economy, inflation, the path for interest rates and the outlook for equity markets.  Spoiler: Prepare for a bumpy ride ahead.

Empower Chief Investment Strategist, Marta Norton breaks down key trends influencing the economy and financial markets.

The Federal Reserve cut interest rates 0.25%, the first cut since December 2024. While the Fed acknowledged the weakness of the labor market, they believe economic growth remains strong.  Marta and Vanessa break down what drove the Fed’s decision and what Fed policy may look like for the rest of this year and 2026.

A September rate cut?  According to the markets, it's already a done deal.  Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton discusses what the broader rate cutting campaign look like.  

The August price report showed a 2.9% annual rate of inflation, the highest rate since January but likely not high enough to prevent the Federal Reserve from cutting rates at its next FOMC meeting.