FEBRUARY IS A SPECIAL MONTH
Happy Valentine’s Day to all our friends! The holiday has a complicated history, with several origin stories, but the ancient Romans may be responsible for the name of our modern day of love. Emperor Claudius II executed two men—both named Valentine—on Feb. 14 of different years in the third century. Their martyrdom was honored by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day.
As for the month itself, its name comes from an old Roman cleaning festival called Februalia, where people would wash themselves as a way to start fresh. So, the name February reminds us it’s a time for getting rid of the old to welcome spring.
And did you know February is the least common birth month in the U.S.? That’s partly because it’s the shortest month of the year. In fact, the rarest birthday occurs on February 29, which has a 1 in 1,460 chance of occurring.
AXIOM NEWS
Looking Ahead at the Economy
Starting off 2025, we want to share some thoughts on America’s current fiscal policy, geopolitical elements and other factors that may help shape this year’s financial landscape. The transition period offers both challenges and opportunities for investors—and we’re here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or just want to chat about what else 2025 may hold.
Fiscal Policy
Many provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act were set to expire in 2025, but it’s possible some of those provisions may get extended due to the election’s outcome. So remain proactive, especially with estate strategies, but expect some updates as 2025 progresses. Reducing the corporate tax rate appears most likely among the discussed tax reforms. Whether these measures will successfully pass through Congress remains to be seen. 1
Monetary Policy
When discussing monetary policy, all eyes shift to the Fed and what it will do with interest rates. At its December meeting, the Fed cut rates but indicated it may make fewer adjustments in 2025. The anticipated changes under the new administration will most likely leave the current trajectory of economic and monetary policy unchanged over the next few years. 2
Geopolitical Factors
The global landscape remains fraught with uncertainty due to continuing conflicts, governance transitions and economic debates. These factors keep the global stage unpredictable, underscoring the importance of vigilance in considerting how they might impact both international and domestic investments. 3
Bitcoin
In December 2024, Bitcoin catapulted above $100,000 for the first time, a milestone hailed even by skeptics as a coming-of-age for digital assets. There’s little doubt that cryptocurrency is here to stay and will continue to evolve, given its ability to facilitate decentralized transactions in an increasingly digital world. However, while its potential for future widespread adoption presents exciting opportunities, it’s important to be mindful of its inherent volatility and the risks it carries. 4
1. Russellinvestments.com, December 4, 2024. “An investor’s guide to potential U.S. policy changes in 2025.”
2. Goldmansachs.com, 2024. “The US economy is poised to beat expectations in 2025.”
3. Invesco.com, December 17, 2024. “Fiscal conservatism and other global economic themes for 2025.”
4. Reuters.com, December 5, 2024. “Bitcoin storms above $100,000 as Trump 2.0 fuels crypto euphoria.”
News You Can Use
Tackling Climate Change Through Construction
The entire country has been rocked recently by the devastating wildfires in California. In the aftermath, we’ll read many articles about rebuilding, climate change and new ways to withstand such a level of destruction. An interesting side to this is that the construction industry itself is “by far” the largest emitter of greenhouse gasses of any sector, making up 37% of global emissions, according to a U.N. report.1 Builders are now working to tackle climate change with new products and methods. From giant Lego-style blocks to artificial reefs, the possibilities are interesting. Find out more by clicking here.
Benefits to Working in Retirement
Many in the work force dream of the day they won’t have to get up early, meet deadlines or manage a department. But as the Baby Boomer generation reaches retirement age, more and more people are thinking about how to stay sharp and active in their later years. Often the answer is to keep working in some form. Click here to read about five major benefits to working in retirement.
FEBRUARY FUN
Play The Price is Right
“Come on Down” to The Price is Right Live™ and experience the interactive, (non-televised) stage version of the legendary TV game show. Randomly selected contestants play audience favorites like Plinko™, Cliffhangers™, The Big Wheel™ and even the fabulous Showcase. The family-friendly event features an array of fantastic prizes, from appliances and electronics to dream vacations and even a brand-new car. Feb. 6 at 7:30 pm. The Louisville Palace. For tickets, go here.
Moulin Rouge!
Enter a world of splendor and romance, glitz, grandeur and glory! It’s a world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new mashup extravaganza. The musical was the winner of 10 Tony Awards®. Feb. 18 to March 2 at the Kentucky Center. Go here for tickets.
Dr. Neil DeGrasse Tyson
The renowned astrophysicist and science communicator, Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, will be presenting his talk “Search for Life in the Universe“. Known for his engaging and insightful discussions, Dr. Tyson will explore the ongoing efforts to find habitable planets, liquid water and life beyond Earth. This event promises to be an enlightening and thought-provoking evening, perfect for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. The Louisville Palace, February 25 at 7:30 pm. Get tickets here.
Be sure to stay in touch with Axiom regularly by visiting us on your favorite social media platform.
https://www.facebook.com/axiomfsg