Market and Economic Insights

The COUNTRY Trust Bank investment team reflects on 250 years of American history while reviewing the second quarter and providing updated market commentary.

Markets have remained resilient despite geopolitical tensions, higher oil prices, and evolving interest rate expectations. In this update, COUNTRY Trust Bank’s investment team reviews recent market and economic developments and explains why we continue to remain constructive on stocks.

As we head into 2026, we remain constructive on both the economy and the stock market. Explore what drove markets in 2025 and what we see on the horizon in 2026.

Strong consumer and AI-driven growth support markets, but rising risks reinforce COUNTRY Trust Bank’s neutral stance and focus on diversification and quality.

COUNTRY Trust Bank’s outlook has improved, favoring stocks over bonds due to economic stability, though caution remains regarding valuations.

Amid ongoing economic and market uncertainty, maintaining a diversified asset allocation can help mitigate risks and enhance portfolio stability.

The period of rising interest rates came to a close. How did this affect markets, how are we thinking about 2025, and what can bonds do for you?

Learn about retirement income strategies such as the 4% rule, dividend income, total return, guaranteed income, bucket approach and four box strategy.

The COUNTRY Trust Bank investment team remains cautious, closely observing economic indicators and the Federal Reserve’s actions to identify future opportunities.

Permanent life insurance provides lifetime coverage that builds cash value. Learn more about types, predictability, and security of permanent life insurance.

COUNTRY Trust Bank discusses the impact of AI technology on stock markets, and the challenges of strategizing portfolio positions given various economic factors.

Investing your hard earned money in the market can cause many people to wonder if they’re doing the right thing. Remaining invested though market cycles can be even more challenging.