On Money & More – October 2025

ONE OF THE JOYS of living in Jacksonville is the sense of steadiness you feel walking down California Street. The historic buildings, the brick sidewalks, the same courthouse tower that’s stood for more than a century—time moves a little slower here. For many residents, that’s part of our town’s magic.

But outside Jacksonville’s quiet charm, the world feels anything but steady. Markets swing on news from Washington or Wall Street. Interest rates remain higher than we’ve grown accustomed to. Prices for groceries and utilities haven’t quite fallen back to pre-pandemic levels. Add in election-year uncertainty, and it’s no surprise many people feel uneasy about their finances.

So how do you find stability in an uncertain economic landscape? Jacksonville’s own history offers a few clues.

Lesson 1: Preserve What You’ve Built—When the gold rush dwindled, many fortune-seekers left town, but people like Peter Britt chose to stay and invest in Jacksonville’s future. Known for his photography and pioneering vineyards, Britt built a life rooted in long-term vision rather than quick gains. Retirees can take a page from his book: the key to financial security isn’t chasing the next “strike,” but building on stable foundations. Investors often ask, do I need dividend stocks in my portfolio? While these might not be as exciting as the hottest AI stocks of the day, like Britt’s vineyards and photographs, they play a role in a portfolio and can provide enduring value that stands the test of time.

Lesson 2: Diversify for Resilience—Jacksonville reinvented itself over time—from a mining camp to a banking hub, then to a cultural and tourism destination. Each reinvention created resilience. For investors, diversification is the modern equivalent. A portfolio spread across stocks, bonds, and real assets helps weather the ups and downs of any one sector or market cycle.

Lesson 3: Keep Cash Handy—In the 19th century, Jacksonville’s businesses thrived because merchants kept reserves of goods and cash on hand to handle lean seasons. Retirees can take the same approach by maintaining an emergency fund or setting aside two to three years of living expenses in conservative investments such as bonds. This reduces the need to sell volatile investments during market downturns.

Lesson 4: Think Generationally—Our town itself is proof of legacy planning. The preservation of historic homes and landmarks didn’t happen by accident; it was the result of careful stewardship. Retirees should view their finances the same way—through estate planning, trusts, and charitable giving that ensure their wealth benefits children, grandchildren, and the community.

Jacksonville has weathered booms and busts for more than 170 years. Through gold rushes, recessions, and reinvention, it has remained a place of beauty and stability. Retirees can follow the same path: protect what you’ve built, stay diversified, keep reserves, and plan with future generations in mind.

Headlines will continue to move markets. But in Jacksonville, we’re reminded daily about another approach. That thoughtful planning is what endures.

All opinions and data included in this commentary are as of September 12, 2025 and are subject to change without notice. The opinions and views expressed herein are of Cutler Investment Counsel, LLC and are not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or individual investment advice including the asset allocation provided. Nothing herein should be construed as tax advice. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation or solicitation to purchase or sell securities. This information should not be used as the sole basis to make any investment decision. The statistics have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of this information cannot be guaranteed. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principle. Neither Cutler Investment Counsel, LLC nor its information providers are responsible for any damages or losses arising from any use of this information.