Here’s what we’re thinking about

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.

Federal Reserve Chair Offers Guidance on Inflation

Fed chairman Jerome Powell has frequently spoken publicly about inflation in recent weeks. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on the Fed's efforts in this article originally posted 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.

Hiring is Poised to Weaken

While new job creation has seen a slight bump, evidence suggests hiring is poised to weaken. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores.

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.

Declining M&A Activity Speaks Volumes

A decline in M&A activity has spread to every market, a signal of things to come. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the roles interest rates, inflation, currency fluctuations, and uncertainty play in business decision-making, and what to expect in the future.

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.

More To Worry About In Financial Markets

As the Fed drives up interest rates and recession looms, there's more to worry about in financial markets. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores.

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.

Inflation: No Relief Today, Nor Any In Sight

September numbers confirm--inflation's not going anywhere anytime soon. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati investigates inflation numbers from the month and what we can expect in the near future. Originally published by Forbes.

East And West Rates Going In Different Directions

Western central banks have been fighting inflation by raising interest rates, but China has taken a different approach. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores in this article originally published by Forbes.

Federal Financial Mess

Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the current federal financial mess we find ourselves in and offers his insights on how we got here in this article originally pushed in The Epoch Times.

Halloween Spending 2022: Eye of Newt at Record Prices

While some may say it’s just a bunch of hocus pocus, there’s something darkly magical about spooky season. Halloween is the most fun when it’s all about the scares, and this year promises something truly terrifying: irrational consumers. Despite record inflation, a record number of adults (69%) are planning to celebrate Halloween in 2022. Dive into the ghoulish details in this blog to learn more.

A Guide to the Student Debt Debate

President Biden has ordered the Education Department to pursue a plan of massive debt relief for former and existing college students. But every public policy has its winners and losers. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores the potential economic impacts in this guide to the student debt debate.

Interest Rates Will Go Higher

Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has indicated that more rate increases are coming. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores implications for recession and the economy at large, in this article originally published in The Epoch Times.

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 Federal Reserve Has A Long Way To Go

The Fed shows no signs of slowing down interest rate hikes, and markets have responded accordingly. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores implications and looks to the past to provide future guidance in this article originally published by Forbes.

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.

Whither Real Estate: Impact of Inflation

Rising mortgage rates aren't going anywhere in the near future. But these aren't the only factors impacting the housing market. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores market pressures and how some are coming to see real estate as a safe haven for wealth in this article originally published in Forbes.

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.

Inflation Numbers Sink Wall Street

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX In Depth to discuss the latest on inflation and the economy.

New Business Formation Offers Good Economic News

Is the economy in a recession? Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in, looking at the rate of new business formation as a key indicator.

Banking in the Face of Rising Rates, Recession and Inflation

After second quarter bank profits fell from a year ago, Chief Economist Milton Ezrati examines the impact of rising rates, recession and inflation on bank earnings.

Back-to-School Loans?: Inflation Impacts BTS Spending

As the summer winds down, back-to-school shopping is in full gear. With inflation at a 40-year high, families are feeling the impact, but that hasn't slowed down spending.

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.

Is the Fed Up to the Job?

The Fed has started taking action to ease inflation, but do they have the mettle to stay the course? Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores whether the Fed is up to the job in this article originally published in Forbes.

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.

Real Estate: One Way to Hide from Inflation

Facing the prospect of long-term inflation, investors are looking to protect their wealth. Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores how real estate might be the best bet to hide from inflationary pressures.

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.

The Biden-Harris Inflation Plan: Rhetoric or Real?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on the Biden-Harris plan to tackle inflation in this article originally published on Forbes.

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.

Interest Rate Hike Looks to Fight Off Inflation

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins the KNX In Depth team to discuss the impact of the Fed's interest rate moves on inflation.

Can the Fed Counter Inflation?

The Fed faces an especially tough battle against inflation in the months to come. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on how we got here and what to expect next.

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.

Can Biden Help Affordable Housing?

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati shares his thoughts on President Biden's 5-point affordable housing program and how market limitations could affect outcomes.

Weakening Household Finances

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores how budget constraints will slow consumer spending growth for The Epoch Times.

Roots of America's Labor Shortage

There are many theories as to why the nation is facing a labor shortage. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores various explanations and attempts to get to the root of the problem.

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.

However Bright Stuff Looks, there is Always Trouble

The digital revolution is well underway, but it's important to consider the environmental impact of new technologies. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati discusses tech-related energy use and implications for the future.

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.

Inaction in Europe Makes the Fed's Anti-inflation Fight Tougher

Inflation will persist as a problem on both sides of the Atlantic as the ECB weighs its options. Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati offers insights on what the coming months might hold.

April Showers Bring Q2 Revenue Boosts

Dive into springtime with a look into the home and garden sector and how it's changed over the last few years.

Milton Ezrati on TD Ameritrade Network: Recession Is Coming, Inflation Is The Villain

Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joined TD Ameritrade Network's "Market on Close" to discuss how the Fed's fight against inflation, rising interest rates, and restrained credit could bring on a recession.

The Revealing Economics of the Metaverse

Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati takes a look at the economics of the metaverse, and how they parallel the "real" world.

You Can’t Put a Price on a Mother’s Love, But You Can Try

Mother's Day 2022 will see record spending in the U.S. How does it stack up to previous years?

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.

Inflation-fighting Policy Failure Seems Unavoidable

Vested's Chief Economist looks at the Fed and ECB responses to fighting inflation.

Housing: Poised for Trouble

Residential real estate may be due for a correction. Vested's Chief Economist paints a picture of what the future could hold.

Recession on the Horizon

Vested's Chief Economist explores how today’s inflation is laying the groundwork for a significant and fundamental recession further out on the horizon.

Investing in the Metaverse

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

US Economy: Slowing Growth and Inflation

Vested's Chief Economist Milton Ezrati explores economic indicators that paint a picture of slowing post-pandemic recovery amid ongoing inflation.

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.

Milton Ezrati on TD Ameritrade Network: "Required Rate Increases Could Cause a Recession"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati on the TD Ameritrade Network show "Morning Trade Live" discussing inflation and the risk of a possible recession.

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".

War and the Price at the Pump

Vested's Chief Economist, Milton Ezrati weighs in on the impacts of the war in Ukraine on the prices we're paying at the pump.

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.

The Fed Does As Expected, Giving Reason for Both Relief and Disappointment

Milton Ezrati gives his analysis of the Fed's recent interest rate increase.

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.

From the Frontlines of Ukraine: A Follow Up with Yuriy Matsarsky

Qwoted's Editor In Chief, Lou Carlozo conducts a follow-up interview on March 18 with Yuriy Matsarsky, the Ukrainian journalist-turned-soldier to get an update on the conditions in the war zone.

Sanctions Will Weigh Heavily

Milton Ezrati speculates on the effects current global sanctions will have on the economy of Russia.

Milton Ezrati Discusses the War in Ukraine and Possible Recession on KNX News "In Depth"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati weighs in on how the war in Ukraine will affect the American economy.

Banks and Fintech May Miss the Expected 2022 Lending Surge

Vested's Chief Economist, Milton Ezrati, warns that the projected lending surge, may not be as promising as it appears.

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.

Women Are Not Returning to the Workforce After the Pandemic

Many women who worked before the pandemic remain at home.

FinTech and the Regulators

Regulation is coming for the global FinTech industry, but how smoothly it goes over still remains to be seen.

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.

Milton Ezrati Discusses Inflation on KNX News "In Depth"

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins KNX News "In Depth" to discuss inflation and if there is any end in sight.

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.

Capital Spending Points to Growth, At Least for the Time Being

Milton Ezrati hints that an increase in capital spending may be an indication that economic recovery is coming.

Milton Ezrati Discusses Consumer Confidence on Yahoo Finance

Vested Chief Economist Milton Ezrati joins Yahoo Finance Live to discuss consumer confidence, inflation and real estate.

Doing Well, but Feeling Worried Nonetheless

Americans know more about inflation and the economy than the media gives them credit for, but the real indication of how they feel about the current state of affairs is in their spending habits.

What Happened Last Time is Not Encouraging

Milton Ezrati warns that Washington's aggressive spending could lead to inflation rates similar to the 1970's.

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.

Milton Ezrati Previews December Jobs Report on Cheddar News

Milton Ezrati speaks to Cheddar News about what to expect in the December jobs report

Inflation: Not as “Transitory” as the Authorities Say

Celebrating International Credit Union Day!

Here We Go Again --- Maybe

Surveying the Economic Horizon

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

The Shape and Timing of New York City’s Recovery

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

Next Up on the Legislative Front: Infrastructure

What Mischiefs Hath the Fed Wrought?

What Ails the Bond Market?

10 Black-Owned Fintech Companies Narrowing the Wealth Gap

The Confused Fed

Biden's Tax Plan: Looking Ahead

Biden's Policy Outlook

State of the Economy

Big Tech Under the Gun

A Universal Basic Income?

Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Has Begun a Business Revolution

Negative Interest Rates?

Getting Back to Work

Combatting the COVID-19 Recession

Economic Predictions of Coronavirus Covid-19

Regulators and the Fintech-Banker Wedding

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?

Ex-Fed President Advises The Fed To Self-Destruct

Robots: Love them or loathe them?

China Retreats Globally