By Tim Russell, President & Wealth Manager at Life Financial Group
Originally shared on the Life in the Markets podcast — 9/22/2025
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September 22, 2025 – Fed Cuts Rates & Charlie Kirk: Christ or Chaos
Market Recap
The stock markets closed higher last week.
- S&P 500: +0.87%
- Nasdaq: +1.85%
- Russell 2000: +0.36%
- Bonds: –0.37% (pressured by the 10-year Treasury yield rising from 4.04% to 4.14%)
- Oil: –1.5%
- Gold: +1.6% (Silver +1.95%)
- Bitcoin: Flat
It’s worth remembering the inverse relationship between bond prices and yields. As yields on new bonds rise, the relative value of older bonds decreases.
The headline story this week was the Fed’s decision to cut the Federal Funds rate by 0.25%. While markets initially dipped, they quickly recovered as traders recognized the move as supportive of growth. In fact, the S&P 500 went on to set new all-time highs.
Looking ahead, markets expect the Fed to lower rates by another 0.50% before year-end. Typically, falling interest rates benefit mid-sized and smaller companies. However, despite the cut, the 10-year Treasury yield climbed higher. Mortgage rates followed suit:
“The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35% on Friday, up from 6.13% the day before the Fed cut rates.” – Yahoo Finance / Mortgage News Daily
A Shift in Focus: Kirk’s Memorial Service
Yesterday, the nation witnessed something extraordinary: a four-and-a-half-hour memorial and worship service for Charlie Kirk, broadcast widely across major news outlets.
The Gospel was proclaimed. Millions heard the message of grace, forgiveness, and the hope of eternity in Christ. Leaders from across the country pointed to Jesus and called the nation to repentance.
Yes, some theology could be critiqued—but the Good News was front and center. For that, we say: Praise God!
You may be asking: Why discuss a memorial service on a market commentary channel? The answer lies in Pastor Rob McCoy’s words:
“Charlie looked at politics as an on-ramp to Jesus. He knew that if he could get all of you rowing in the streams of liberty, you would eventually come to its source. And that’s the Lord.”
Christ or Chaos
For true economic flourishing, our nation must be grounded in ultimate truth. Financial markets themselves rest on an ethical and moral framework—one that collapses if we abandon the God of the Bible.
There are only two choices: Christ or Chaos.
Yesterday’s service put both on display. The hope of the Gospel shone brightly, while the emptiness of a godless society was also evident.
I rejoice that many leaders publicly acknowledged the Lordship of Christ. Yet, I also urge them—and all of us—not merely to speak His name but to bow the knee and follow Him in every sphere: homes, workplaces, churches, and public life. Only then can just and fair markets truly thrive.
Two Responses to Tragedy
How does a godless world respond to tragedy? Too often with rioting, looting, violence, and despair. While real suffering underlies these reactions, without Christ, chaos is the only logic left.
How do Christians respond to tragedy? We grieve, yes—but with hope. Death is an enemy, yet one already defeated. Jesus Christ has overcome the grave. Because of His resurrection, we can face grief with confidence in eternal life.
Our response is not violence but love, forgiveness, and grace. Even forgiveness for the gunman who took Charlie Kirk’s life.
May the message of Christ proclaimed in that memorial service not fade away. May our nation turn back to the God of the Bible—the only foundation for life, liberty, and flourishing markets.
May Jesus Christ be praised!
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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.
