February 2025
Jesse Brown, CFP®
Christian Hutchins, CFP®, AIF®
http://rollinghillsadvisors.com
Rolling Hills Advisors
Welcome to The Rolling Report, your monthly guide to the dynamic world of investing and the latest updates from our firm. Each edition brings you a concise overview of the stock market, highlighting key trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the financial landscape. In addition, we’ll keep you informed about important developments within our firm, including strategic initiatives, new offerings, and insights from our team. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting your financial journey, The Rolling Report is here to keep you informed and empowered. Let’s roll forward together toward informed decision-making and financial success!
Quick Market Review
Despite all the fireworks, the S&P 500 ended January with a solid 2.7% gain, with 72% of its stocks finishing the month in positive territory. Constellation Energy (CEG) led the index, surging 34% as it continued its strong momentum from 2024. Meta Platforms (META) also performed well, rising 18% after delivering what MoffettNathanson Research described as an "incredibly strong" fourth-quarter earnings report.
On the losing side, Nvidia (NVDA) fell 11%, impacted by developments surrounding DeepSeek. Meanwhile, Edison International (EIX) suffered the biggest decline, plunging 32% as California wildfires disrupted its electric utility operations in the state.
The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure, the personal consumption expenditures price index, rose 0.3% in December, as expected. At the January meeting, the Federal Open Market Committee kept its policy rate between 4.25% and 4.50%. However, it adjusted its statement, noting that inflation is still high and removing mention of any progress.
Additionally, President Trump's issuance of multiple executive orders and threat of potential tariffs introduced elements of uncertainty, contributing to market volatility as investors weighed the potential impacts of new policies.
Overall, January 2025 was marked by sectoral divergences, significant technological developments, and policy-driven market responses, underscoring the complex dynamics influencing the current investment landscape.
To read more on some of the best and worst preforming stocks in the month of January click here.
Aspire Program
Your financial journey is unlike anyone else’s, and with Aspire by Rolling Hills, we’re here to help you take charge of it. Whether you’re saving for your first home, starting to invest, or working toward financial independence, Aspire is designed to guide young investors in building a secure and purpose-driven future.
This program is perfect for those just starting their financial journey, with affordable and accessible guidance to help turn dreams into reality. If you’re an experienced client with children or grandchildren who are beginning to think about their financial futures, Aspire is a wonderful way to equip them with the tools, education, and personalized strategies they need to succeed.
With no minimum balance to get started and pricing designed to fit different stages of the journey, Aspire makes it easy for anyone to begin building their wealth confidently and with professional support.
Ready to learn more? Visit Aspire by Rolling Hills or reach out to Kaleb at kfontenot@rollinghillsadvisors.com. Don’t hesitate to take this step for yourself—or share it with someone you care about.
Let’s get started. Your future is waiting.
California Wildfires
The devastating wildfires sweeping across California have left lasting economic scars, from destroyed homes and businesses to disrupted supply chains and increased insurance costs. Beyond the immediate financial toll, entire communities are grappling with the long-term impact of rebuilding lives and livelihoods in an already challenging economic climate. These disasters highlight not only the vulnerability of our cities but also the resilience of those who call them home.
Christian Hutchins, a partner and wealth advisor here at Rolling Hills Advisors, explores this resilience in his latest article, taking a deep dive into what truly defines Los Angeles beyond its sprawling cityscape. From the rich cultural tapestry that makes up LA’s neighborhoods to the incredible unity shown in the face of disaster, his piece captures the soul of a city that, even in its darkest moments, stands together. Read the full article to discover how the wildfires have reshaped Los Angeles and the inspiring ways its residents are coming together to rebuild.
To read Christian’s full article, click here.
For more information on the economic impact of the California wildfires, click here.
Firm Updates
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Sources:
1. https://apnews.com/article/ee1ca7bb3a925edb29db1854c1645d54
3. https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20241107a.htm
4. https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/election-market-impact
5. https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/trading-investing/stock-market-outlook
6. https://media.bespokepremium.com/uploads/2024/12/TBR-Annual-Outlook-2025-Pros-and-Cons.pdf
The S&P 500 is a stock index considered to be representative of the U.S. stock market in general. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged composite index of over 2,500 common equities listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted index that tracks 30 large, publicly traded American companies.
All index returns exclude reinvested dividends and interest. Indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly.
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