The AI Economy: Growth Engine or Single Point of Failure
Artificial intelligence has moved from a Wall Street narrative to the primary engine of American economic growth. In the first quarter of 2026, real GDP grew at roughly a 2 percent annualized rate, and investment in AI-related software, equipment, and data centers accounted for an estimated two-thirds to three-quarters of that growth. By some measures, […]
Federal Reserve Leaves Rates Unchanged
Last week, the Federal Reserve voted to leave the federal funds rate unchanged at 3.75%, where it has remained throughout 2026. While the broader trend since early 2024 has been toward lower interest rates, recent inflation data has led many members of the Federal Open Market Committee to take a more cautious approach before implementing […]
WATCH: Q1 Market and Economic Update with Brian Burton and John Boardman
In this quarter’s update, Ballast, Inc. CIO Brian Burton sits down to answer the questions we’ve been hearing most from clients over the last two months. What’s kept markets strong? What’s happening with Bitcoin and gold? Is AI still a real story or just a really expensive one? And why is everyone suddenly talking […]
WATCH: Personal Budgeting for Business Owners
Tax-Efficient Charitable Giving Strategies: 3 Ways to Maximize Your Donations
Charitable giving doesn’t have to mean paying more in taxes. With strategic planning, you can maximize your philanthropic impact while reducing your tax burden. Whether you no longer itemize deductions, hold appreciated stock, or are in retirement, these three tax-efficient charitable giving strategies can help you donate more effectively while optimizing your tax situation. _____ […]
Should I Consider a Trust?
Trusts can be powerful tools for families across the financial spectrum to protect and manage assets, care for loved ones, and potentially realize generational tax savings. They can also provide privacy by avoiding public probate, and customized asset distribution, such as for health, education, maintenance, and support. For those with minor children, a trust can […]
WATCH: Fall 2025 Market Update (October)
Ballast Magazine – Issue 1
Introducing Ballast Magazine A new way to explore wealth, purpose, and planning from the Ballast advisory team. We’re proud to share the first issue of Ballast Magazine—a curated collection of insights, strategies, and real-world stories for individuals and families committed to building a meaningful financial legacy. And the best part? Every article was thoughtfully written […]
Financial IQ
How Smart Is Your Money? Put your financial knowledge to the test with our quick Financial IQ quiz! Whether you’re a savvy planner or just starting your wealth-building journey, this quiz will help you discover how well you’re navigating key money matters. Find out if you’re on track with your personal finance goals and get […]
Market Update | Q1 2024
Cameron Hamilton, John Boardman, and Andy Reynolds discuss the market environment, trends, and more in this beginning-of-the-year update.