2025 in Review: Inflation, Growth, and the Year of AI

Strap in for a whirlwind tour through one of the most unpredictable years in recent economic history. From record-breaking government shutdowns and surprise bank failures to crypto hacks that rattled global markets, this episode dives deep into the headlines that mattered and the ones that were just noise. We’ll unpack the Genius Act and the first real steps toward crypto regulation, explore how North Korean hackers stole billions, and look at why two small bank failures sent ripples through the financial system. Inflation cooled dramatically, unemployment crept upward, and the Federal Reserve pulled off three rate cuts in the final quarter. But that is just the surface. 2025 was also the year AI truly arrived, reshaping productivity and rewriting the rules of work. What does that mean for hiring, wages, and the future of innovation? We’ll connect the dots between tariffs, rare earths, and John Templeton’s timeless wisdom to figure out where the markets stand and where they might be headed in 2026. Spoiler: optimism is in the air, but so is uncertainty. If you want sharp insights with a dash of humor, a clear-eyed look at what’s next, and a few surprises along the way, this is your must-listen episode. Understanding the chaos of last year might just be the key to thriving in the year ahead. This episode was recorded on January 2, 2026. If you would like to contact us, please send an email to us at [email protected]. We are happy to address any of your questions about Economics and Finance. If you are ready and would like to book an appointment either in office or over the phone, you can also send a message to us through the contact form on our website TPWC.com. ** The information provided in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. We are “The Personal Wealth Coach,” which is also the name of an SEC-registered investment advisory firm. However, being registered with the SEC does not authorize us to provide investment advice. Investment advice should be personalized, offered in a private setting, and be in the best interests of the individual as a fiduciary. If we make any fraudulent statements, you should report them to the SEC. The information presented in this educational episode has been obtained from sources that we deem to be reliable, but we make no warranty or guarantee as to the completeness or accuracy of said information.