Abacoa & Alton Neighbors - March 2026

M A R C H 2 0 2 6 | A B A C O A & A LT O N N E I G H B O R S 13 - By Jeremy L. Wilmes MBA, CFP,®ChFC®CLU,®CASL, RICP® - Economic Update FOR MARCH A s of early 2026, the U.S. economy continues to expand, though momentum has clearly moderated from the post-pandemic surge. After solid growth earlier in 2025, activity cooled in the second half of the year, and consensus forecasts now project real GDP growth near 2% in 2026. The Federal Reserve has shifted toward a more balanced policy stance following rate cuts in late 2025, emphasizing that future decisions will remain data dependent as officials weigh progress on inflation against a gradually softening labor market. Inflation continues to ease but remains above the Fed's 2% long-run target, with recent readings generally in the 2.7%-3.0% range, supporting a cautious approach to additional easing rather than an aggressive rate-cutting cycle. Labor market conditions have also cooled from historically tight levels, with slower job growth and the unemployment rate drifting into the mid-4% range, though signs of broad-based stress remain limited. Looking ahead, private-sector investment, particularly in technology and artificial intelligence, may help support growth, but policy uncertainty, global economic risks, and tighter financial conditions remain meaningful headwinds. Bottom line: The U.S. economy is still growing, but at a more measured pace. For investors, maintaining exposure to high-quality assets, strong balance sheets, ample liquidity, and companies with durable cash flows and pricing power remains a prudent strategy in an increasingly uncertain environment. To work with Vicki, reach her at 443- 255-1200 or vicki@liebowitzrealty.com. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth. EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR U.S. Economic Outlook: Resilience Amid SlowingMomentum