Robert Graham, Senior Wealth Manager, RICP

08/24/2026

Back-to-school season is bringing higher costs for many families.

A new analysis found that a typical basket of school items, including notebooks, lunch boxes, and index cards, is up nearly 8% compared with last year.

School lunches are also more expensive, with the cost of a typical packed lunch up 11%.

The analysis estimates families may spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, including about $175 on school items and $3,800 on packed lunches.

Some items have seen especially sharp increases. Lunch boxes are up 27%, one-subject notebooks are up 23%, and index cards are up 22%.

Higher tariffs, imported school supplies, food prices, and energy costs are all contributing to the increase.

For families, back-to-school shopping is a reminder that seasonal expenses can add up quickly, especially when everyday costs are already stretching household budgets.


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U.S. households will spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, a new analysis found.

01/29/2026

As the U.S. enters 2026, economists are watching several key factors that may influence the economic landscape in the year ahead. While growth held up better than expected in 2025, many households continue to feel pressure from elevated costs.

Among the biggest questions are whether inflation will continue to cool, how the Federal Reserve may respond to changes in employment, and whether housing affordability will improve gradually over time. Experts are also monitoring how the adoption of artificial intelligence could affect job growth and productivity, as well as whether stock market gains can be broadened beyond a small group of leading companies.

Taken together, these factors suggest a year shaped less by dramatic shifts and more by gradual adjustment, as businesses and consumers respond to evolving economic conditions.



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From stubbornly high living costs to a softer labor market, economists say these are the forces that will shape the year ahead.

04/03/2025

This Quarterly Recap summarizes market performance, major events and news from Q1 2025. Read more here:

The S&P 500 posted its largest quarterly loss in nearly three years, whipsawed by President Trump’s fast-evolving rollout of newly imposed trade tariffs with additional foreign-made auto import levies and broadbased “reciprocal tariffs” expected to be announced on April 2. Reciprocal tariffs r...

02/07/2025

Your child may need 3 types of insurance when heading off to college. Learn more at Forbes:

You may not think that your college student needs insurance, but there are risks that you should cover when sending your child off to college.

02/05/2025

🏘️ Mortgage rates have climbed above 7%, even as the Fed cuts interest rates. For some perspective, a $300,000 mortgage at 7% vs. 5% means about $400 more in monthly payments. While some may hope rates drop to 4% or home prices fall 20%, experts suggest neither scenario is likely in the near term.

👀 Looking ahead, rates aren't expected to dip below 6% until 2026. Why? Treasury yields, which influence mortgage rates more than Fed decisions, respond to broader economic factors. The current mortgage premium sits at 2.4 percentage points above Treasury yields - notably higher than the 1990-2019 average of 1.7 points.

Whether you're considering a home purchase or evaluating your current situation, it's worth understanding how these market dynamics affect property decisions. 🔍


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Mortgage rates have more than doubled from recent lows in 2021. They're not poised to fall much any time soon, economists said.

02/03/2025

Budgeting doesn't have to be daunting! 🌟 Discover how you can start mastering your finances with these simple yet effective budgeting strategies.

Here's what you need to know:

Get Started: Learn the basics of setting up a budget that works for you and your lifestyle.
Smart Spending: Identify areas where you can cut back and save more without sacrificing your quality of life.
Financial Goals: Set achievable goals and track your progress to stay motivated and on course.

Take the first step towards financial freedom and make 2025 your year of financial success! 💪


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Money is emotional – but avoiding a budget is often more of a headache than making one

01/31/2025

The IRS has announced an increase in retirement contribution limits for 2025, offering new opportunities for savers. 💼

- Increased Limits: Higher contribution limits allow individuals to boost their retirement savings and take advantage of tax benefits.
- Financial Planning: This change presents an opportunity to reassess and enhance your retirement savings strategy.
- Tax Advantages: Maximizing contributions can provide significant tax savings and improve long-term financial security.

Curious about what this may mean for you? We are here to talk about how these new contribution limits may impact your savings strategy.


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The IRS has announced the cost‑of‑living adjustments for pension plans and other retirement-related items for tax year 2025.

01/28/2025

The December 2024 CPI report reveals crucial insights into inflation trends, offering a snapshot of the economic landscape as we head into 2025.

Some key takeaways:

Inflation Trends: The report highlights a moderate increase in consumer prices, reflecting ongoing economic adjustments.
Economic Impact: These changes can influence everything from interest rates to consumer purchasing power, affecting financial planning strategies.
Policy Considerations: As policymakers analyze these trends, potential adjustments could shape economic policies in the coming months.

Stay informed on how these developments may influence your financial decisions and economic outlook.


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The consumer price index was expected to rise 0.3% in December and show an annual inflation rate of 2.9%.

01/14/2025

Have you ever heard of the 50/30/20 rule? It's a simple way to budget after-tax income: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and investments. Start taking steps toward the future you want.

01/11/2025

Did you know short-term capital gains are subject to higher tax rates? By holding onto investments for over a year, you could benefit from lower long-term capital gains tax rates. Sometimes, patience can pay off.