As we enter the final stretch of summer, the markets are moving through a familiar season of mixed signals and shifting narratives. Inflation has cooled from its post-pandemic peaks, but it remains sticky enough to keep policymakers cautious. The Federal Reserve continues to walk a fine line—signaling patience on rate cuts while emphasizing data dependency. Meanwhile, earnings season has revealed a tale of two markets: strength in tech and healthcare, softness in cyclicals and small caps.

Despite the conflicting signals, markets have held up remarkably well. Year-to-date performance for the major U.S. indices remains positive, though beneath the surface, volatility and dispersion persist. In times like these, investors may feel tempted to adjust course—to act in response to headlines, forecasts, or short-term moves.

But at Mercer Partners, we take a different approach—one that’s disciplined by design.

A Framework Built on Purpose

 

Our investment philosophy is rooted in the idea that wealth is not created by reacting to markets, but by aligning your portfolio with your goals—and staying aligned through all seasons of the market cycle.

Your plan isn’t built on guesswork or gut feelings. It’s built on:

  • A clear understanding of your most important life goals
  • A carefully constructed financial plan to pursue those goals
  • A broadly diversified portfolio designed to drive that plan forward

This is the discipline we bring to every client relationship. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t change with the headlines. But over time, it works.

Volatility is Normal.  Planning is Exceptional.

Periods of market chop—like what we’ve experienced in recent months—are not a sign that something’s broken.  In fact, they’re a normal and necessary part of long-term investing.  But they can still test our resolve.

That’s why your portfolio was designed with intention: to weather short-term uncertainty while capturing the long-term power of the markets.  Whether it’s inflation data, interest rate speculation, or geopolitical headlines, these events are noise relative to the lasting impact of sound planning.

 

Being disciplined doesn’t mean sitting on your hands. It means doing the right things, consistently, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Diversification: Your Built-In Shock Absorber

 

Another key component of disciplined portfolio design is broad, global diversification.  While some parts of the market may lag in a given year, others will lead—and no one can consistently predict which is which.

This year has demonstrated that truth clearly: U.S. large-cap growth names have driven much of the performance, while other sectors and geographies have lagged.  But history shows us that leadership rotates—often without warning.  A well-diversified portfolio is your best defense against that uncertainty, and your best offense for long-term growth.

Disciplined by Design: What It Means for You

 

This month’s theme—Disciplined by Design—is more than a catchphrase. It’s a promise.

It means that every decision we make together is thoughtful, intentional, and aligned with what matters most to you.  It means we don’t chase the market—we build plans to outlast it.  And it means we stay focused on your goals, even when the world feels uncertain.

Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways

 

  • Markets remain resilient despite conflicting economic signals, with volatility and dispersion likely to persist in the near term.
  • The Fed remains cautious, holding interest rates steady as inflation data continues to evolve.
  • Your portfolio is built to endure, not react—and that’s by design.
  • Broad diversification continues to be your best defense against uncertainty and your best tool for long-term compounding.
  • We remain committed to your plan, which reflects your unique goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk—not Wall Street’s latest headlines.

Thank you for the continued trust you place in our team. If you have any questions about your plan, your portfolio, or what’s happening in the markets, we’re always here for you.

Best,

Nick

The financial professionals of Mercer Partners Wealth Management are registered representatives with, and securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Mariner Independent Advisors Network, a registered investment advisor. mercer Partners Wealth Management and Mariner Independent Advisors Network are separate entities from LPL Financial.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk

No strategy assures success or protects against loss