Sixteen years ago, Mark Haines of CNBC identified a market low when the S&P 500 reaches 666. Although Monday’s trading did not replicate this result, there are indications of a potential short-term bottom.
U.S. equity markets are continuing their significant decline from last week. At the market close on March 10, 2025, the S&P 500 was down nearly 9% from February highs, while the NASDAQ 100, which focuses on technology, declined 12%.
Since our last market commentary on February 27, 2025, we have continued to reduce overall equity exposure, increasing our hedge position, and adding bonds to clients’ portfolios. Additionally, a second hedge against the NASDAQ 100 has been implemented. A hedge moves in the opposite direction of a major index.
The recent market sell-off can be attributed primarily to new policies introduced by the Trump Administration. Reductions in Federal spending have created uncertainty, lowering consumer sentiment and expected consumer expenditure. Given that consumer spending accounts for 68% of GDP, the likelihood of an economic downturn is increasing. Additionally, tariffs are expected to decelerate economic growth and increase inflation. Restrictive immigration orders add to inflationary pressures due to the aging population. These factors have led to a sell-off among leading companies in the stock market, possibly due to profit-taking activities.
In recent months, we have significantly reduced equity exposure in portfolios and increased cash and fixed income holdings. Currently, equity exposure across all client portfolios is at its lowest level in AHIA’s history. We continually monitor market conditions with objectivity and have made numerous adjustments to our clients’ portfolios. Further changes will be guided by market trends, economic data, and policy developments.
Market declines can present opportunities, but a key risk is investing prematurely.
OUR TEAM

Andrew “Andy”
D. W. Hill, CFA
President and
Co-Founder

Jennifer R.
Figurelli, CTFA
Managing Director
and Co-Founder

Elicha D.
Moore
Client Concierge
Representative

Sean
O'Brien
Associate
Portfolio Manager