Insights

January 18, 2026 STEADY INFLATION: The inflation rate (CPI) for December rose by 0.3% from a month earlier and held steady at a 2.7% annual rate according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is the same rate as a month earlier. (For 2024, the CPI was 2.9%.) Food at home has decreased to a 2.4% annual rate. Electricity is up 6.7% while gasoline is down -3.4%. "Core" inflation, which strips out food and energy due to their short-term volatility, rose 2.6% in 202

Giving has always been an act of faith. In today's global and often volatile environment, charitable giving may also feel more complex. Economic uncertainty, rising needs, and increasing scrutiny around how nonprofits operate may all make giving feel like a weighty decision.

The start of a new year often brings a sense of renewal, a fresh opportunity to set goals, break bad habits, and “get things in order.” However, how often do January resolutions lead to lasting transformation? Instead of focusing on resolutions that fade, we believe it may be more fruitful to establish sustainable rhythms, patterns of behavior that align with your values and carry you through the year, not just the first month. Why Resolutions Often Fade Most resolutions are

The pursuit of “more” is everywhere. More money, more growth, more success, but for people of faith, the question is not simply how much wealth to accumulate. It’s how to define “enough” in light of our values, purpose, and calling.

Even the most disciplined investors may face moments of uncertainty. The news cycle may feel overwhelming. Market swings may stir anxiety. Predictions and projections may shift without warning.

January 11, 2026 MEDIOCRE JOBS REPORT: The U.S. economy added 50,000 net new jobs in December. The average monthly increase for all of 2025 was 49,000 jobs. The monthly average for private sector jobs was 61,000 as government sector jobs declined. Federal government jobs decreased by 268,000 in 2025. The unemployment rate declined to 4.4%. NEW HIGHS TO BEGIN THE YEAR: In the first full week of stock trading for 2026, the S&P 500 hit a new high. The jobs report was m

In a culture that prizes speed, hustle, and instant gratification, patience is often mistaken for weakness. But from a biblical perspective, patience is wisdom in action. It reflects trust, not hesitation. When it comes to building wealth, patience may not only be a virtue, it may be one of the most powerful tools available to faithful investors. The Pace of Peace At Stonecrop, we believe that financial peace is rarely found in the fast lane. Shortcuts and get-rich-quick stra

Financial headlines are loudest at the start of a new year. Analysts release their market predictions. News outlets speculate about the economy. Social media feeds fill with bold forecasts and “don’t-miss” investment strategies. At Stonecrop, we believe that wisdom often means turning down the volume. While we value data and research, we also believe that long-term success begins with faith, not forecasts. The most effective financial decisions are not always reactive. They a

Each new year brings its own questions. What matters most in this season of life? Where is God leading me? Am I stewarding what I’ve been given in a way that reflects my values?