Insights

Trusts, both revocable and irrevocable, can be a great planning tool for all sorts of circumstances, particularly now with the ability to create very flexible trusts. One type of irrevocable trust is called a grantor trust - sometimes referred to as an intentionally defective grantor trust (IDGT) – and it offers potential tax-savings opportunities under the right circumstances.

We believe that a growing team enhances our ability to deliver the service our clients deserve. It is with great pleasure that we introduce the newest members who have joined us in recent months.

An executive order signed by President Trump will require all payments to and from the IRS to be made electronically beginning on September 30, 2025. The purpose of this change is to improve efficiency, increase security, reduce delays and the risk of fraud. According to the order, all payments to the IRS, including tax payments, penalties, and fees, must be made electronically. Similarly, any refunds from the IRS will be issued electronically. This mandate applies to all individuals, trusts, businesses, and tax-exempt organizations.

The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates by 25 basis points at the September meeting, which marked the first rate cut of 2025. If we look back earlier in the year, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell elected to take a “wait and see” approach, keeping the policy rate steady for the first eight months of the year. Based on the rate cut and post-meeting press conference, Powell has now seen enough, citing signals of a slowing labor market as the primary reason for taking action.

Equity markets continued their multi-year march higher in the third quarter, with the S&P 500 finishing in positive territory for the seventh time in the past eight quarters (and ten of the past twelve). Market performance was driven by a mix of factors, but perhaps none more so than continued enthusiasm for artificial intelligence (AI) and infrastructure related to its buildout.

The U.S. economy continued its cautious expansion through the quarter, despite mixed signals from key indicators. GDP grew at an annualized rate of 3.8% during the second quarter, reflecting the fastest growth rate in nearly two years.

Have you made a plan for your money this year and beyond? At any stage of life, you can establish financial goals to suit your particular situation. Taking the time now to evaluate your personal finances and set tangible, measurable goals for your money is a strong way to prepare for a secure financial future—whether that is 3 years from now or 30 years from now.

When it comes to investing, innovation and disruption are nothing new. Every so often, something shakes up traditional markets in unexpected ways. Enter meme stocks: a phenomenon that has captivated both seasoned investors and newcomers alike. But what exactly are meme stocks, and why have they gained such popularity?

At Howland Capital, we believe in making a difference in our community. Recently, our team had the privilege of volunteering at St. Francis House. From meal preparation to serving food, sorting clothing donations, and contributing to special events, our employees worked in small groups to help bring St. Francis House’s mission to life. These volunteer shifts offered our team the chance to contribute directly to the work of this vital organization, connecting with both staff and guests along the way