In a time of economic contradiction and uncertainty, and market contradictions, mastering the art of navigating economic turbulence has become not just an advantage, but a necessity. At the helm of Northeast Private Client Group, Managing Partners Adam Schlossberg and Benjamin Bush bring a complementary dynamic to the table. Their ability to balance data-driven rigor with strategic adaptability is not only a cornerstone of their firm’s success, but a roadmap for how thoughtful investors might approach the uncertain terrain of 2025.
“You have to approach 2025 with what I call opportunistic caution,” says Schlossberg, President and Financial Advisor. “We’re seeing conflicting economic signals— strong consumer spending on one hand and inflation pressures on the other. Our role is to filter that noise, prioritize fundamentals, and stress-test assumptions.”
According to Northeast Private’s 2025 Outlook, the U.S. economy is walking a complex tightrope. While fiscal expansion and deregulation may provide some lift to GDP, certain policy shifts could introduce long-term inflationary pressures. The report notes that, should the Federal Reserve be forced to choose between curbing inflation and supporting a softening labor market, monetary policy alone may not be sufficient.
Schlossberg observes that markets appear to be pricing in continued earnings growth, though he cautions against assuming the same strategies that worked in the past will continue to be effective. “We’re seeing AI-driven productivity as one of the few tailwinds, but valuations in sectors like tech and discretionary may already be stretched.”
Meanwhile, Bush offers a broader lens on today’s economic environment. “Economic turbulence isn’t just numbers on a screen—it tests your clarity, discipline, and emotional intelligence,” says Bush, whose strategic thinking blends behavioral insight with long-term planning. “That’s why we encourage people to adopt not only tactical awareness but also what I call an ‘activity inventory’ mindset.”
The Activity Inventory is a personal leadership tool that Bush frequently references. It calls for taking stock of which activities truly energize and align with your strengths, then restructuring your time and decision-making accordingly. In Bush’s view, the same reflection can be helpful when it comes to managing resources: move toward conviction, away from distraction. It’s a method for cutting through the noise—not just in your calendar, but in your thinking.
This inside-out approach resonates strongly in a year like 2025. With shifting economic conditions and evolving monetary policy, many individuals may find that the biggest threats are not sudden shocks, but creeping drags on confidence and decision speed.
“The emotional drag is real,” Bush explains. “We’ve seen highly competent investors lose their footing not because of poor strategy, but because of fatigue and decision overload. That’s why clarity—both personal and financial—is more valuable than ever.”
To that end, Northeast Private’s Outlook points to quality as a theme. With the S&P 500 potentially reaching a price-only high of 6,300 by year-end, the firm emphasizes the importance of thoughtful planning. “This is a year to understand what you own and why you own it,” Bush says. “Factors like liquidity, tax-efficiency, and resilient allocation models are areas that people may want to explore more deeply—ideally in a conversation tailored to their individual goals.”
Their 2025 Outlook also highlights a tilt toward sectors like Industrials, Energy, and Financials in a bear steppener environment, while noting caution on long-duration bonds and speculative growth names. High-yield credit, short-duration Treasuries, and dividend aristocrats are referenced among potential considerations. However, Schlossberg emphasizes that no two investor situations are alike.
“Long-term investors who are already fully allocated may want to maintain their focus,” he says, “but those with near-term needs should evaluate where their assets are positioned. Each person’s timeline and goals are different—and that’s where individualized planning matters.”
He also notes that income-oriented individuals might explore opportunities to lock in yields, keeping in mind that principal volatility may rise as inflation expectations shift.
Both Schlossberg and Bush emphasize that leadership in times of turbulence is less about forecasting and more about fortifying. “Most recessions, when they happen, start slowly and then all at once,” Schlossberg says. “The goal is to have a strategy that won’t flinch—because emotional reactions can often be more damaging than economic ones.”
As the year unfolds and markets navigate evolving rate expectations, the narrative remains anything but predictable. For Bush, that’s why it’s essential to think holistically.
“There’s a myth that market success is all about spotting the next big opportunity,” Bush says. “But in reality, long-term outcomes come down to building systems—ones that help you stay grounded, focused, and ready to adapt.”
The systems Northeast Private supports aren’t just financial—they’re behavioral, strategic, and highly personalized. Schlossberg and Bush, along with CEO Mark B. Murphy, lead a team dedicated to helping clients evaluate the full picture.
“In a world where algorithms and models increasingly drive trades, what sets a good advisor apart is the ability to bring confidence and clarity to someone’s unique situation,” Schlossberg says.
Bush concludes with a reminder: “If your financial approach doesn’t reflect your priorities, it may be time to reassess. But that starts with a conversation—not a prescription.”
Everyone’s goals, needs, and timelines are different. For anyone seeking clarity in a complex environment, the best place to start is with a one-on-one conversation tailored to your circumstances.
In a year where outcomes are never guaranteed, mastering economic turbulence doesn’t require clairvoyance. It requires clarity—and the guidance to find it.
All investments involve risks, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This article is not intended to suggest a particular course of action, predict or represent the performance of any particular financial product or security.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial advice. Please consult a qualified financial professional to discuss your situation.
The opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Guardian or its subsidiaries.
Disclosure: Registered Representatives and Financial Advisors of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 200 Broadhollow Road, Suite 405, Melville, NY 11747, 631-589-5400. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representatives of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York,NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Northeast Private Client Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. ADAM SCHLOSSBERG, CA Insurance License Number – 0I10934, AR License Number – 16689231. BENJAMIN BUSH, CA Insurance License Number -0H30562, AR Insurance License Number – 8196746.
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Editor’s note: This article appeared in the August 2025 print edition of USA TODAY magazine. Dentists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. https://www.usatoday.com/story/special/contributor-content/2025/08/06/adam-schlossberg-and-benjamin-bush-on-mastering-the-art-of-navigating-economic-turbulence/85548965007/
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Mark B. Murphy, CEO of Northeast Private Client Group, is an accomplished author, speaker, and motivator who’s revolutionizing the financial planning and wealth management industry. He helps entrepreneurs achieve multigenerational wealth through personalized strategies, leveraging his strategic planning and financial engineering expertise. Forbes has ranked him as the number one financial security professional in New Jersey and number 15 nationwide. Additionally, his book, The Ultimate Investment, is a number one bestseller and new release on Amazon.
