https://preservewm.com
We've been keeping up with the latest headlines...
here are two of our favorites worth sharing.
** Your Money
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In the fourth quarter of 2025, global financial markets proved notably resilient. Major equity indices reached new all-time highs despite persistent inflation, a U.S. government shutdown, and a softening labor market. This broad “everything rally” produced positive returns across all major asset classes for the year. U.S. equities continued to be driven largely by optimism and capital investment in artificial intelligence, which contributed disproportionately to GDP growth and earnings, even as valuations became increasingly stretched.
International markets outperformed U.S. equities for the year, particularly emerging markets, which benefited from a weaker U.S. dollar and more attractive relative valuations. Fixed income delivered solid returns as yields remained compelling and the Federal Reserve began signaling a shift toward rate cuts, while municipal bonds offered some of the highest yields seen in decades. Commodities were led by a surge in precious metals, with gold and silver benefiting from safe-haven demand, central-bank buying, and increased industrial usage.
* Broad Market (S&P 500): +2.7% 4Q | +17.9% last 12 months
* Small Companies (Russell 2000): +2.2% 4Q | +12.8% last 12 months
* International Stocks (EAFE): +4.9% 4Q | +31.9% last 12 months
* Emerging Markets (MSCI EM): +4.8% 4Q | +34.3% last 12 months
* Bonds (Barclays Agg): +1.1% 4Q | +7.3% last 12 months
Personal video statements will begin going out this week.
Q4 2025: Markets continue to climb a wall of worry (https://advisors.vanguard.com/insights/article/q4-2025-markets-continue-to-climb-a-wall-of-worry#:~:text=It's%20often%20said%20that%20bull,above%20the%20long%2Dterm%20average.)
by Francis M. Kinniry Jr., CFA
** Your Life
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As we head into 2026, food trends are being shaped less by novelty and more by practicality. Expect to see more products highlighting protein and fiber, driven in part by the growing use of GLP-1 medications and broader health awareness. Comfort foods and at-home cooking are also making a comeback as households look to stretch meals and simplify routines. At the same time, consumers are pushing back on fear-based food messaging, questionable nutrition apps, and the overuse of supplements. The through-line is clear: fewer extremes, more balance, and a renewed focus on eating real food consistently rather than chasing the next wellness craze.
Food trends to expect (and ones to reject) in 2026 (https://www.citizen-times.com/story/sponsor-story/ingles-markets/2025/12/31/food-trends-to-expect-and-ones-to-reject-in-2026/87958427007/)
by Leah McGrath, RD, LDN
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danheth/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosalynn-harvey-heth-mpa-ceps-3a3aa3191/
** Complexity Simplified
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Most “best by” dates are about quality, not safety. They signal when taste or texture may decline, not when food suddenly becomes unsafe. “Use by” dates matter more for highly perishable items. A simple rule helps: store food properly, freeze it before the date if you will not use it, and trust obvious spoilage signs like mold, strong odors, or slimy texture. When in doubt, throw it out, but do not treat every printed date as an automatic reason to waste food.
Food Waste FAQs (https://www.usda.gov/about-food/food-safety/food-loss-and-waste/food-waste-faqs)
source: USDA
** Trivia
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Last week's answer: Magnifying glass
This week's question: What is the only food that never spoils when stored properly?
https://youtu.be/o8ByJ1C0iR4?si=1lJSDrWiCwaYtgCA
** Back in 1968, this song reached #1
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