~5 minute read

By Tim Russell (President & Wealth Manager) at Life Financial Group
Originally shared on the Life in the Markets podcast — 5/11/2026

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Market Update for May 11, 2026

There was a good amount of positive economic news over the past week, though some of the data continues to send mixed signals.

Employment

The labor market remained surprisingly strong. Between monthly jobs reports, there are two major indicators that help us evaluate the health of employment.

First, weekly payroll data showed that payrolls increased by 115,000 jobs, well above the estimated gain of 65,000. Second, first-time unemployment claims came in at just 200,000 — about 5,000 lower than expected.

Overall, fears that AI would quickly lead to widespread layoffs have yet to materialize. While some companies are reducing staff because of AI-related efficiencies, the impact has not been nearly as broad as many feared.

Credit

We also heard from many lenders this week through earnings reports. Overall, consumers are not showing significant signs of financial distress or an inability to repay loans.

Consumer Spending

Consumers also continue to spend on experiences and entertainment. Many are still willing to spend hundreds of dollars on concerts, vacations, and amusement parks.

For example, The Walt Disney Company reported stronger-than-expected demand at its parks: Admissions were stronger. Food and beverage, merch, really everything came in a little bit stronger than expected… Right now, we’re not seeing any macro weakness to point to, including at the international parks. (Disney Financial Reports)

At the same time, other companies are reporting slower consumer spending and weakening demand. This is where the economic picture becomes more complicated.

Consumer Confidence

The University of Michigan Consumer Confidence Survey showed weakening confidence among consumers, largely driven by fears surrounding inflation and potential job losses.

What’s interesting is how contradictory this all seems. On one hand, consumers say they feel less confident. On the other hand, many continue spending freely.

One possible explanation is that confidence is often shaped by macro-level concerns — inflation headlines, recession fears, social media, and news coverage. But spending decisions are usually driven by micro-level realities: personal income, savings, debt levels, and day-to-day financial stability.

There are certainly many individuals and families struggling financially right now. But there are also many who remain financially healthy and are still willing to spend on the things they value.

The Stewardship Takeaway

The Good Steward does not make financial decisions based primarily on headlines, social media, or fear-driven narratives. Instead, he “pays careful attention to his flocks and herds” and evaluates his own financial situation honestly and wisely.

Wise stewardship means making spending decisions based on personal financial reality and long-term goals — not emotional reactions to the news cycle.

Verse of the Week — Proverbs 21:5

“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance,
but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”

This passage reminds us that the wise steward is a planner, not a reactor. Diligence and intentionality lead to abundance, while impulsive, emotion-driven decisions often lead to financial hardship.

The Good Steward spends with awareness, discipline, and a clear understanding of his overall financial picture. The foolish steward follows feelings and reacts hastily. Scripture shows us where those two paths ultimately lead.

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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 Geneos Wealth Management, member FINRA/SIPC.