Beyond the Headlines: Unpacking 2025’s Economy & 2026 Outlook (Ep. 7)

Periods of economic uncertainty often lead people to question their financial choices, yet most long-term outcomes are shaped by steady decisions rather than day-to-day noise.

Why do we feel worried even when the data looks stable? How do rising prices, interest rates, and shifting job conditions influence real-life planning?

In this episode, Jamie Hopkins and Kate Duffy talk with Andrew Davis, CFA, SVP, Head of Macroeconomic Research at Bryn Mawr Trust, about inflation trends, labor market shifts, and what the past year reveals about consumer behavior. 

They walk through the Fed’s direction, the impact of housing constraints, and how portfolios may evolve as rate cuts move closer. In addition, Andrew explains what investors should watch in 2026 and why staying focused on long-term planning matters more than reacting to news cycles.

Key takeaways:

00:00 – Welcome and episode overview
00:20 – Introducing Andrew Davis
00:54 – Andrew’s role and macro focus
01:15 – Biggest themes of 2025
02:59 – Inflation and Consumer Sentiment 
10:38 – Labor Market Adjustments 
15:18 – Interest Rates and Housing 
21:31 – Market Performance and Portfolio Considerations 
25:25 – Staying Committed to a Plan
25:57 – What Andrew is watching in 2026
28:36 – Closing remarks and next steps

About Our Guest:

Andrew Davis is an investment strategist with more than a decade of experience applying macro insights and portfolio construction principles to help clients make informed decisions in changing conditions. He blends real-time market perspective with a long-term approach, offering guidance that is both thoughtful and actionable.

In his role as Head of Macro Research, he shapes asset allocation views, contributes to the firm’s wide investment strategy, and supports advisor teams with clear, data-focused commentary. His weekly video series, Two the Point, highlights key economic themes for an audience of investors looking for clarity amid constant noise. He has appeared as a guest commentator on CNBC’s Fast Money and has been recognized by the American Bankers Association’s 40 Under 40 in Wealth Management and WealthManagement.com’s Rising Star Award for leadership and innovation.

Andrew earned his MBA with honors from The Wharton School and holds a Master’s in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University, along with the CFA designation. His work is grounded in data, shaped by purpose, and focused on insights that build confidence and long-term value.