Here’s what we’re thinking about

Running the Numbers on Your Summer Kick-Off

Where consumers can expect higher prices or some sweet sales this Memorial Day Weekend.

Sorry Prospects for the Once-Unbeatable German Economy

Germany’s economy is struggling under the weight of high energy costs, declining industrial output, shifting global trade dynamics, and looming tariffs, posing serious challenges for the country and the broader EU.

Has the Stock Market Slide Signaled Recession?

Analyzing recent stock market declines and economic indicators, Ezrati explores the likelihood of a recession, historical patterns, and the potential impact of policy decisions.

The Tide Is Turning: What to Know about the Trump Administration’s Digital Assets Priorities

The Trump Administration is pushing forward on digital assets, with new regulations, a strategic Bitcoin reserve, and a focus on tokenization.

The Regulatory Horizon for Finance

The Trump administration is reshaping financial regulation, from shutting down the CFPB to easing merger restrictions and navigating Supreme Court rulings

Romance & Receipts: Valentine's Day Spending 2025

Valentine’s Day spending is set to hit a record $27.5 billion, with more consumers celebrating and splurging on gifts, dining, and experiences.

Protectionism, Tariffs and Investment Flows

Protectionism is on the rise in Washington, with escalating tariffs and blocked foreign investments shaping U.S. trade policy.

Elections Across the World Carry Distinct Economic Messages

Diving into the economic ripple effects of 2024's global elections, as voters prioritize living costs, growth, and national interests.

The Fed’s High Wire Act

Explore the Federal Reserve's delicate balancing act between inflation control and economic growth, as recent rate cuts raise questions about policy direction and market expectations for 2025.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A Costly and Troubled Scheme that Beijing Will Support Nonetheless

Explore China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, examining the economic burdens it places on Beijing and the strategic influence it secures in Africa.

From Trump, Biden or Harris, Sovereign Wealth Funds Can Be Dangerous

Sovereign wealth funds proposed by Trump and Biden could reshape the U.S. economy, but carry risks like stifling innovation and undermining government accountability.

I’m an Economist: 3 Reasons I Believe Harris’ Opportunity Economy Could Help Retirees

Discover how Kamala Harris' "opportunity economy" could impact retirees.

The Harris-Walz Campaign Reveals Its Tax Plans

Explore the Harris-Walz campaign's tax proposals, which build on Biden-era plans with significant changes for corporations and high-income individuals.

Santa, The Easter Bunny, and the “Soft Landing”

Delve into the historical trade-offs between inflation control and economic downturns, plus the complexities of current monetary policy amid evolving pressures.

Trump Wants A Say In Framing Monetary Policy

Former President Trump’s call to overhaul the Federal Reserve's independence echoes historical patterns of presidential influence.

What China Policy Will Emerge After The Election?

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, despite their differing policy visions, are likely to maintain or intensify an adversarial stance towards China, with shared hostility toward Beijing’s trade practices.

Sustainable Snapshot: 2024 Paris Olympics

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

How Disruptive is AI Economically?

Explore the economic impact of AI and understand how past patterns of technological change inform our expectations for AI's effects on the workforce and economic disparities.

Facts and Figures of the 2024 Summer Olympics

A look at the numbers surrounding the Paris Summer Olympics.

How Biden Stepping Down as the Democratic Nominee Could Impact Your Wallet

As election news continues, learn about potential changes in taxes and inflation that could affect your financial future based on the next presidential candidate.

I’m an Economist: Here Is What I Would Predict for Inflation If Kamala Harris Were To Replace Biden

Explore the potential economic impact of a Kamala Harris presidency on inflation.

All the Regulation in the World Won’t Stop the Next Crash

Balancing prudent banking practices with regulatory frameworks is crucial for economic stability and growth.

Stars, Stripes, and Savings: 4th of July Spending Trends for American Consumers

Let's reflect on how American spending habits are shaping up for this year's 4th of July celebrations.

How Reliable Is Jerome Powell at This Crucial Time?

With high inflation and an upcoming election, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell faces a difficult balancing act.

Vested Banking Breakfast with Chief Economist Milton Ezrati and US CEO Amber Roberts

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joined US CEO Amber Roberts to discuss the key challenges facing the banking sector.

China’s Prospects Are Far from Bright: Most of Its Wounds Are Self Inflicted

China’s economic future is dimmer than its shining past. Most of its problems originated in the Forbidden City.

Fitch Takes A Dim View Of China’s Financial Outlook

Fitch, the credit rating agency, has announced that it harbors doubts about the future of Chinese finance.

April is National Financial Literacy Month

We're breaking down financial literacy and why it matters, plus sharing the stats that will change the way you think about it.

Danger in the Puzzling Jobs Picture

With employment figures showing nearly 700,000 new jobs in December and January, Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the factors that contribute to the full employment picture.

Sustainable Snapshot: Valentine's Day 2024

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Valentine’s Day Spending 2024: The (Spending) Power of Love

The National Retail Federation projects total spending will approach $25.8 billion on Valentine’s Day in 2024.

Bitcoin Again: This Time Bigger and Better

In light of the SEC's approval of Bitcoin ETFs, Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores Bitcoin's volatility and investment value.

Sustainable Snapshot: Green Asset Ratio

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

The Great Rate-Cut Debate

When can we expect to see the much-anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate cuts? Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores all of the possible scenarios.

Whither the Private Debt Boom

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the history of private lenders and how they've come to control some $1.5 trillion of debt.

Stemming the Flow of Red Ink

As the Federal Reserve’s counter-inflationary efforts have raised interest rates, deficits and debt concerns have risen on the national agenda. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati breaks down the proposals presently emerging from policy discussions on how to combat the increase.

Sustainable Snapshot: New Board Diversity Trends

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

China’s Self-Inflicted Wounds

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati breaks down China's severe economic troubles.

Sustainable Snapshot: Conference Season & Carbon Offset Programs

Tune into Sustainable Snapshot, the video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Whither ESG Investing

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati shares the history of ESG investing in the United States and where the data shows us we're headed.

Introducing Sustainable Snapshot

Introducing the Sustainable Snapshot, the new video series with Vested Director Marian Daniells and AssetTV.

Office Space: More Trouble For The Foreseeable Future

The real-estate impact of COVID lockdowns is empty office space and a lack of desire to return to in-person work full time. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the fallout and the longterm effects in this article originally published by Forbes.

China Is Dumping Its U.S. Treasury Bonds

China has begun to sell its vast holdings of U.S. Treasury bonds. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores what this means for financial markets, Washington's finances, and the economy at large.

Is the UK a Hostile Environment for Bigwigs Who Forget the Basics?

Are there lessons to be learned from the recent NatWest fallout? Vested Associate Director Henry Adams examines the current environment in which the story is unfolding and and the implications for business leaders moving forward.

The Future of Crypto

Recent SEC action against two of the world’s largest crypto exchanges have called into question the future of crypto. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores.

Another Housing Crisis?

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati talks about the ongoing housing crisis, and what we can learn from the collapse of 08-09.

Is the Fed Done?: Interest Rate Predictions

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks at recent actions by the Fed to predict what's next for interest rates. Spoiler alert: there are likely more hikes to come.

How Does the Inflationary Environment Impact How We Communicate?

The UK may be on track to dodge a recession this year, but inflation concerns remain high. Account Director Amelia Graham explores what this means for both consumers and businesses and how brands can communicate clearly to support their customers during these volatile times.

Is the digital dollar likely?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the implications, roadblocks, and advantages of the digital dollar after a resurgence of interest, in this article originally published by Forbes.

Whoa, Mama: 2023 Mother's Day Spending Up $4 Billion

Despite a looming recession, data from NRF indicate that 2023 Mother’s Day spending could increase to as much as $35.7 billion - the highest year on record.

Is America Recapturing Manufacturing?

After decades of decline, American manufacturing is making something of a comeback. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati dives into the investment spending in new facilities and how a surge could impact employment.

On Embracing AI

With artificial intelligence dominating in the business news cycle, there's a lot of talk about innovation and the future. There's also a lot of talk about the drawbacks or dangers of the emerging technology. In this article originally published by Forbes, Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati helps readers move past their fears and focus on embracing AI.

The Budget Deficit Continues

The budget deficit continues to widen, but what exactly does that mean for the US? And what exactly could be done about it? Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati breaks down the issues in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Firms Dial Up Advertising to Draw Market-Shy Investors

Continued market turbulence may mean wealth management firms are allocating more advertising resources to investors looking for advice. Vested CEO Binna Kim weighs in on why firms need to simplify their messages to break through to consumers.

What Is the Outlook for Challenger Banks Following the Collapse of SVB?

In the wake of the SVB collapse, challenger banks have the opportunity to pick up customers who have lost their faith in traditional banking brands by positioning themselves as the alternative.

Inflation Woes Continue

The inflation issue has been tough to crack, with numbers creeping back up after a brief period of hope that we may be through the worst. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by Forbes.

College or Career?: The Jobs-College Split

For decades now, a college degree has been considered the only means to a good job, a “ticket to the middle class,” as many in media and in politics say.  But in today's environment, that may no longer be the case. Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the jobs-college split.

How Will Recent Bank Failures Impact the Economy?

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX Radio to discuss whether the American banking system is really safe and if the economy will be impacted.

Silicon Valley Bank, Rising Interest Rates and Banks

Silicon Valley Bank has failed. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati analyzes how we get here, the Fed's action, and what it means for banks moving forward.

Commercial Real Estate Outlook, February 2023

The post-COVID recovery has been a mixed bag for most industries. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks at the numbers to help understand the commercial real estate outlook for 2023.

Vested in the News: Milton Ezrati on the 1980s Recession

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati was quoted in "Why the 1980s recession haunts the Fed," published online by The Hill on February 6th, 2023.

Technology and the Future - Part 2

In part 2 of this series originally published by The Epoch Times, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the economic impact that technology will have on the future, with an eye toward ESG and the aging retiree population.

Technology and the Future - Part 1

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the future impact that technology will have on the economy through the lens of data, communication, fintech, and healthcare, in part 1 of this 2-part series, originally published by The Epoch Times.

Inflation impacts consumer spending

With inflation far outpacing recent wage gains, consumer spending in key categories is down. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the far-reaching impacts in this article originally published by Forbes.

Are Bonds Back? Well, Yes, Sort Of.

The Fed's efforts to ease inflation have given investors reason to include bonds in their portfolios for the first time in a decade. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati examines what the renewed interest in bonds means for investors as the world’s central banks raise interest rates higher still.

Housing Depression Will Continue

After a volatile 2022, the housing market continues to make waves in the new year. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Does hiring signal strength?

In early January 2023, hiring remained strong. But does hiring signal strength for the rest of the economy? Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Consumer cutbacks in 2023

Between inflation and rising interest rates, consumers have been cutting back on spending, increasing the looming threat of recession. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Jobs Strength Won't Last

Jobs strength has continued to grow in face of an increasingly volatile economy. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati puts it all into context in this article originally published by Forbes.

Progress Against Inflation

In recent weeks, the Fed has made significant progress against inflation. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati reviews impacts so far and what we can expect next in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

Song of Sam

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on the FTX collapse, Sam Bankman-Fried, and how we got here in the first place.

A Look Back at 2022, a Look Forward to 2023

‘Tis the season for articles that look back at the past year and forward to the next. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks back at the wild ride that was 2022 to give us a clearer view of 2023 in this article originally published by The Epoch Times.

The Best of Vested: 2022 in Review, Q4

The final article of our 4-part series explores the top Qwoted content of Q4 2022.

The Best of Vested: 2022 in Review, Q3

This is part 3 of our 4-part series on 2022 in Review. As we prepare for 2023, we look back on a year of Vested content. This article looks at our top content from Q3 2022.

The Flap Over ESG

ESG investing has been in the headlines frequently as of late. In this article, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati breaks through the noise to define the major players and their interests regarding ESG regulation.

Inflation Impacts Holiday Spending, Gaudy Yard Decorations

If you noticed that Black Friday somehow became Black November this year, you’re not alone. With inflation ravaging budgets, retailers decided to meet consumers where they were at, with one of the earliest, longest holiday shopping seasons on record. Explore how inflation impacts holiday spending with Vested.

Credit-risk Transfers: A Financial Vulnerability

Looking back to the 2008-2009 financial crisis for guidance, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores what may be one of today's greatest vulnerabilities in the face of a potential recession: credit-risk transfers.

Gobbling Up a Little Less: Inflation and Thanksgiving 2022

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, US Americans are preparing for stuffing—the side dish and themselves. But with inflation ravaging the economy and threat of recession on the horizon, many are tightening the elastic on their stretchy pants.

UK SMEs: Optimism in the face of challenge

The Vested UK office recently hosted a Breakfast and Brainfood event and welcomed back Shiona Davies, author of the BVA BDRC SME Finance Monitor to update us all on today’s SME landscape.

The US Economy is Sick

As we stand on the precipice of a recession, one thing is clear - the economy is under the weather. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati looks at earnings, inflation, and GDP to offer insights about our current situation.

The CHIPS for America Act: A Strange Mix

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati takes a deep look at the CHIPS for America Act - a new bill devised to spur semiconductor manufacturing in the US.

The UK’s not so ‘mini-budget’ could have a major impact

Since mid-summer, debates surrounding what the new conservative leader and Prime Minister would do to tackle the cost of living crisis have been widespread. Now that we know it is Liz Truss, the country’s attention is very much fixed on her to deliver a plan.

How Founders Get More Sales in Their Startups

Vested Ventures CEO Eric Hazard joins Making Billions with Ryan Miller to discuss the right messaging when raising capital and the benefits of the PESO model.

Investing in Fintech with an Impact

Vested Ventures CEO Eric Hazard joins The Compassionate Capitalist podcast to discuss the nuances within fintech and how its uniquely qualified to address issues with financial access.

Cost of Living Crisis: How Does It Impact How We Communicate?

As the cost of living crisis continues to take its toll and inflation is expected to peak above 10% later this year, Account Director Amelia Graham explores what it means for both borrowers and savers in real terms and ultimately how brands communicate with their customers.

A Break in Inflation?

July brought a measure of relief on the inflation front, but one month does not make a trend. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati digs into details from the latest CPI report and offers insights about the ongoing economic situation in this article originally published in Forbes.

Will The Fed's Latest Move Be Enough to Combat Inflation?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins Yahoo! Finance Live to discuss whether the latest move by the Fed will be enough to combat inflation.

Plain Speaking Needed To Make Sense of E, S and G

Vested Associate Director Henry Adams examines the complexities of ESG and how leaders and businesses can be more specific about their agendas.

Give Me Liberty or Give Me Debt: Exploding Cost of Fireworks

With the 4th of July approaching, many are getting ready for travel, cookouts, and the All-American Fireworks Spectacular. But with supply chain issues and inflation ravaging the economy, the cost of Independence Day celebrations is higher than ever, and many fireworks displays across the country are being canceled as a result.

The Economic Impacts of an Abortion Ban

The Supreme Court's landmark decision to overturn Roe v. Wade impacts not only women, but the financial sector as a whole. Senior Account Executive Samantha Clark examines how the ruling may influence economic opportunity.

Father's Day Spending Index 2022

For many, Dad taught us our earliest financial lessons. Turn off the lights. Don’t touch the thermostat. You don’t need new shoes until your white New Balance sneakers are completely green from mowing the lawn 1,000 times. You know, the basics. With Father’s Day a few days away, most of us will be looking for a way to repay the man who raised us for all the insights, encouragement, and lessons in frugality.

Inflation Will Lead Inexorably to Recession

With inflationary pressure confronting the economy, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati believes recession is on the horizon. Here, he shares his thoughts on timing and outcomes with Forbes.

Eric Hazard Talks Financial Literacy and How to Manage Its Complexities

Vested managing director and CEO of Vested Ventures Eric Hazard joins NBC News Radio to discuss financial literacy and how people can get started on the path toward a more informed financial future.

How Inflation will Impact the Cost of Your Memorial Day Picnic

Inflation is driving up the price of just about everything these days. That means your Memorial Day picnic is going to be a bit pricier this year.

Milton Ezrati on the Economy, Housing Market and the Possibility of an Upcoming Recession

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins managing director Jacqueline Gogel to discuss the current housing market and whether the economy is positioned for recession.

May the 4th Be with You: The Economics of Nostalgia

On the holiest of holidays in Geekdom, we look at the value of original Star Wars memorabilia on today's market and see how the toys stack up against the S&P 500 over the years.

Investing in the Metaverse

Investing in the metaverse may not be as revolutionary as some believe.

Vested Ventures Makes Strategic Investment in Fintech Startup, Qoins

Qoins is a financial planning app that helps users pay down debt and achieve financial goals through automation.

Buy Me Some Peanuts and Cracker Jacks, I am Never Going to Financially Recover from This

As baseball fans return to the stands, concession costs creep higher.

A Universal Basic Income?

Milton Ezrati gives his thoughts on the idea of a Universal Basic Income and thinks "the idea to give a free cash stipend to everyone is wrongheaded".

Modern Comms is More Substance than Style - a Reminder from EVRi

Earlier this month, EVRi (formerly Hermes), one of the UK’s best known delivery companies announced a complete corporate rebrand in a likely bid to remove itself from its toxic brand identity.

Five Facts About Women and Finance: Supporting Financial Literacy for Women

During Women’s History Month, we want to emphasize the importance of women increasing their wealth through education. Here are five facts about women and finance that should encourage you to prioritize financial literacy.

What's the Deal with the Digital Dollar?

With cryptocurrencies gaining in popularity, is the digital dollar far behind?

Building Financial Resilience With America Saves Week

America Saves Week is happening now! And this year’s theme is all about building financial resilience. Here are America Save’s top five tips for boosting your financial resilience this week.

Valentine's Day Spending: How Much Do People Spend In The Name Of Love?

Valentine’s Day spending is expected to hit $23.9 billion in 2022, with the average person doling out around $175.41 on their significant other. Here’s a closer look.

In defence of EastEnders - how pop culture shapes finance

Self-professed financial services geeks shouldn’t care about who killed whom on EastEnders, right? Corporate business strategies bear no relation to Keeping Up With The Kardashians… Well… not quite. Celebrity and pop culture has always influenced the status quo, which in turn impacts how consumers interact with financial services firms. As well as the social reforms that came about thanks to his writing, Charles Dickens is widely accredited to have given us the cultural blueprint for the ‘traditional’ Christmas we know today.

Robinhood's 2021 PR Crisis

Vested's Eric Hazard comments on Robinhood's 2021 PR crisis in PRovoke Media's roundup of the top 20 PR Crises of 2021.

2021: The year we all moved the dial on the treadmill a little...or a lot

2021 has been a year of recalibration, but also one of optimism. After the seismic global shift which emerged out of nowhere in 2020, we picked ourselves up, dusted ourselves off and moved forward with purpose.

What Does the IPO Surge Say?

What the IPO flood reveals is that a large and diverse group of presumably savvy business people see a bright economic future and a market that might be pricing itself for something even brighter than the reality they see. It is a view that investors need to consider and one to which the flood of IPOs has called attention.

Do "Buy Now, Pay Later" Services Like Klarna Trick You Into Debt?

Are you thinking about using a “buy now, pay later” service like Klarna or Afterpay this holiday season? If so, here’s what you need to watch out for.

4 Common Types of Financial Fraud & How to Avoid Them

In honor of International Fraud Awareness Week, we’re uncovering four common types of financial fraud and how to avoid them. Click the link to learn more.

Celebrating International Credit Union Day!

Here We Go Again --- Maybe

Understanding Robinhood: 7 Facts You Should Know About This Popular Investing App

How to Research Stock (step-by-step)

The meaning of being customer-led

A wiser way to go public

JPMorgan Chase Adds Nutmeg to its U.K. Launch Plans

Reaching B2B Audiences in a B2H Way

Celebrate National Insurance Day With These 7 Fun And Surprising Facts About The History Of Insurance In The US

The Battle For British Capitalism

Today in History: Tulsa Race Massacre & Its Impact on Black Wall Street

10 Black-Owned Fintech Companies Narrowing the Wealth Gap

The Confused Fed

Today In History: 9 Surprising Facts About The California Gold Rush

Biden's Tax Plan: Looking Ahead

The story behind the Wall Street bull

Mid-Atlantic Bank Branch Closures Represent an Opportunity to Evolve

A Universal Basic Income?

Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Has Begun a Business Revolution

What About These New Financial Ventures From Google and Facebook?

A Digital Yuan?

Why economists need English majors

Big Banks Have Acquired A Passionate Interest in Fintech

Challenger banks: The end of an era?

Thomas Cook’s reputation in turbulence: what can we learn from it?

London: The next fintech hub?

Robots: Love them or loathe them?