By Tim Russell, President & Wealth Manager at Life Financial Group
Originally shared on the Life in the Markets podcast — 07/28/2025

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Welcome to Life in the Markets! My name is Tim Russell, and today is Monday, July 28, 2025. We’re in the second major week of earnings season, and there’s a lot to unpack. From record market highs to new trade deals on the horizon, let’s dive into what’s happening—and what it means for you.

Markets at All-Time Highs

Last week, the S&P 500 climbed another 1.5%, continuing a powerful rally. What’s remarkable is that it’s only been 74 trading days since we hit the midyear low back in April. In just 108 calendar days, the market has surged 32%. That’s a significant recovery.

But a word of caution: just because the market has rebounded quickly this time doesn’t mean it always will. We’ve seen this kind of snapback before—most notably during the COVID-19 downturn and other news-driven pullbacks—but it’s not something investors should assume is the norm.

News-Driven Markets vs. Fundamental Shifts

Many of the recent concerns—like tariffs—are examples of news-driven market events. These tend to resolve quickly and the market often reverts to its prior trend within months. What really moves the market in the long term is fundamental economic data:

  • Consumer strength
  • Business profitability
  • Labor force health
  • Interest rates and debt delinquencies
  • Housing prices and equity

When the news headlines change but the fundamentals remain strong, you don’t need to panic. It’s noise, not a signal.

A Look at This Week’s Earnings

We’re in the thick of earnings season, and last week’s reports were generally positive. Companies have been able to manage costs, maintain pricing power, and stay profitable—despite concerns over tariffs and global uncertainty.

This week, we’re watching some heavy hitters:

  • Microsoft
  • Apple
  • Amazon
  • Meta (Facebook)
  • Visa & Mastercard – especially important for understanding consumer behavior
  • Exxon & Chevron – key indicators for the energy sector

I’m particularly interested in what Visa and Mastercard show about the health of the American borrower. If consumers are spending and repaying debt, that’s a good sign for continued economic growth.

Trade Deal Developments: A Big Week Ahead

We’re also approaching a self-imposed trade deadline from former President Trump: August 1. A flurry of trade activity is happening, and recent developments are encouraging:

  • Japan and the Philippines have finalized trade deals
  • A framework with the UK is in place
  • The EU has agreed to reduce tariffs from 30% to 15%, along with a $750 billion energy deal with the U.S.
  • Japan is investing heavily in American industrial infrastructure
  • These deals could have significant, long-term benefits for U.S. manufacturing, energy exports, and job creation.

Still to come: deals with Canada, Mexico, and China. Negotiations with China are especially important. As of today, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is meeting with China’s Vice Premier to move those discussions forward. Watch the headlines—positive or negative updates could move markets quickly.

Jobs Report Coming Friday

This Friday brings a key data point: the monthly jobs report. This number helps gauge the strength of the American labor force. Are businesses hiring? Are layoffs rising? The answers give us insights into where the economy may be heading next.

Faith & Stewardship: Closing Encouragement

As we reflect on all this economic data, I want to leave you with a reminder from 2 Corinthians 9:6–8:

“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously… for God loves a cheerful giver.”

If God has blessed you—and many of us have been blessed far more than we imagined—remember: you’re not just blessed for you. You’re blessed to be a conduit of God’s generosity.

Don’t give out of obligation. Give because you trust God more than your money. Giving says, “God, you are my provider—not my paycheck.” That’s the kind of heart God blesses.

Stay Connected

Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover in a future episode? Email us at contact@thelifegroup.org with “Life in the Markets” in the subject line.

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Disclaimer: The topics discussed here are for informational purposes only and do not constitute specific investment advice. Investing involves risks, including potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Securities and advisory services offered through Genios Wealth Management, member FINRA/SIPC.