Wisdom for Your
Financial Journey

During this season of political, economic, and social uncertainty, it's not surprising that many people are wrestling with fears about the future. In its most recent annual study on financial resolutions released at the end of 2024, Fidelity found that more than half of Americans feel overwhelmed by their personal finances, and nearly 30% describe their relationship with money as ‘stressful.'

Whether you're the CEO of a company or the CEO of your home, you have an opportunity to lead with mission and purpose. Author Becca Spradlin recently spoke with Blue Trust about her newest book, Lead on Mission. In the book, Becca explains how even the strongest faith-driven businesses and enterprises can suffer unintentional neglect and drift away from their original higher purposes and values.

Martin Luther King, Jr.'s early experiences shaped his life's work to eradicate racial and economic injustice. “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.” -Proverbs 22:1 His name was originally Michael — Michael Luther King, Jr. The name was passed down from his namesake father and mother, Alberta, at birth in January 1929.

U.S. equities rallied strongly in late 2024 driven by AI optimism, economic resilience, and expectations for pro-growth policies under the incoming Trump administration. The outlook for 2025 remains positive with strong GDP growth and moderating inflation, though uncertainty persists around tariff implementation, tax policy execution, and the Federal Reserve's rate-cutting path.

Written by Pete Kantor, Chief Operating Officer of Blue Trust I write this message having recently surpassed the 100-day mark as Blue Trust's new chief operating officer.

“… The old has gone, the new is here!” II Corinthians 5:15  It's a new year, making it the perfect opportunity to tackle your finances with a fresh perspective. But where do you start? And how can you plan when you do not know what the next 365 days will hold? Fortunately, we've made planning a bit easier for you by breaking it down into four steps.

Investors are making their voices heard like never before. The perhaps well-intentioned environmental, social, and governance (ESG) movement has received unanticipated backlash and awakened troves of investors to the possibility that their portfolio can be used for or against their convictions. Tired of remaining silent or surrendering their voice to proxy voting services misaligned with their values, investors are in search of managers and investment tools that align their portfolio with their convictions.

Written by Brian Shepler, CEO of Blue Trust As I share this first end-of-year holiday message as CEO, my thoughts are immediately drawn to a place of gratitude, as a genuine reflection of Paul's charge in 1 Thessalonians, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV).

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” – Hebrews 12:1-2 Young families are often scarce on both money and time, struggling with their career and childrearing responsibilities. Their parents can be valuable resources for wisdom, strength, and support – yet families must be intentional about establishing healthy dynamics.

Written by Russ Crosson, Chief Mission Officer and Sr. Partner of Blue Trust Imagine this: You're at home settling in to watch your favorite Olympic gold medal game, match, or race, and you find yourself strangely calm. No anxiety, nervousness, sweaty palms, or stress. You are a huge fan of the U.S. athletes you're watching compete, so why are you so at ease?

In a surprisingly decisive victory, Trump has reclaimed the White House. Republicans also clinched the Senate and will likely retain their majority in the House. If they complete the sweep, Trump will face little resistance to enacting his ambitious agenda.

This fall 2024 newsletter explores biblical principles on giving financial assistance to others, addressing the tension between generosity and personal responsibility. Readers discover practical guidance on evaluating requests for help, key scriptural foundations for wise giving, and considerations for specific situations like weddings and major purchases.