Wisdom for Your
Financial Journey

Written by Josh Hall, Sr. Financial Planner in Blue Trust's Charlotte, North Carolina Office. Wedding planning is filled with meaningful decisions—from where you'll celebrate to who will stand beside you. But one of the most important steps toward a strong marriage often happens quietly, away from the guest list and décor choices. Before the vows, photos, and celebrations, it's wise to set aside time for honest conversations about money.

Today, we pause to observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a time set aside not only for remembrance, but for reflection and service. Since Congress designated the third Monday of January as a national day of service in 1994 through the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday and Service Act, many choose to mark this day by serving others.

During 2025, despite geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and a historic government shutdown, the S&P 500 rose 18%, demonstrating market resilience. This economic review examines key 2026 challenges including potential government shutdowns, tariff policy uncertainty, shifting Federal Reserve strategy, and evolving trade dynamics with China.

By Russ Crosson, Chief Mission Officer As we enter 2026, Blue Trust is preparing to welcome team members from across the country to our annual Legacy Summit for a time of inspiration, encouragement, and fellowship. This year's theme is A Bigger Story, which was inspired by Proverbs 11:24a: “The world of the generous gets larger and larger” (MSG).

“And to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:19   There is a beautiful paradox in this verse: how can we know something that surpasses knowledge? Paul's prayer for the believers in Ephesus was not that they would understand God's love in theory, but that they would experience it so deeply that it fills every part of their lives.

By Troy Madlom, CFA, Sr. Investment Analyst For the first time since childhood, I'm putting together a Christmas wish list. But instead of wishing for toys and games, I'm outlining some economic hopes for 2026—grounded in the realities of today's environment and the opportunities ahead. And much like the lists I made as a kid, this one includes a mix of practical hopes and aspirational long shots.

Some stories can only be explained by the hand of God—stories woven so intricately, timed so precisely, and filled with so many unexpected turns that the only possible conclusion is that a sovereign God was leading every step. Dianne and Jeff's adoption journey is one of those stories. They will tell you they “still can't believe it's their story,” but that is precisely what makes it so beautiful.

Blue Trust's winter newsletter addresses critical year-end financial decisions that can impact long-term wealth. The publication guides readers through tax planning strategies, charitable giving opportunities with upcoming legislative changes, retirement contribution deadlines, required minimum distributions, and expiring tax credits.

Written by Dr. Ken Boa, President of Reflections Ministries The book of Proverbs is filled with timeless wisdom about life, and one of its recurring themes is money. Proverbs offers guidance on both the value and the limitations of wealth, revealing that money is a powerful tool but also a dangerous idol if it takes God's place in our hearts.

Executive Summary The rapid expansion of the $1.7 trillion private credit market has prompted heightened scrutiny from the media, with recent defaults fueling speculation about systemic risk. However, a closer examination of the data and underlying structures reveals a more measured reality. Default rates remain modest, averaging below 3% across private credit and leveraged loans.

Key Takeaways: We experience countless miracles daily, from the innumerable biochemical reactions in our bodies to the intricate ecosystems all around us. There are three essential truths about God: He's bigger than we think, closer than we realize, and better than we imagine. God's original intent was blessing, not judgment. Understanding this changes how we relate to Him.

Key Takeaways: Roughly 70% of adults over age 65 will need some form of long-term care, and traditional health insurance or Medicare often covers very little of the cost. Long-term care insurance can help protect retirement savings, preserve independence, and reduce the caregiving burden on family members. The best time to consider purchasing coverage is in your 50s or early 60s, when premiums are more affordable and you're more likely to qualify.