Good morning.

I don’t expect a lot of readers today … especially here in the Northeast … as the weather is the best it has been in a while, and many are probably sneaking away to get an early start to the holiday weekend.

I went over some numbers last night and am really grateful for those who do read my notes … as the stats show the percent of people opening my daily scribble is on the high range of expectations for similar “blogs” (if that is what this is considered).  What brought this to mind was an article I included below that has to do with showing gratitude … as people tend to receive a compliment and typically shrug it off … acting as if it is immaterial … and don’t take the time to express appreciation. I am not in that camp.  I do appreciate each one of you.

Okay, enough of that.

Investors today applauded a jobs report that came in stronger than expected but it did have an effect some might not like … for it seems (according to RSM Chief Economist, Joe Brusuelas), that this result takes a Fed cut in July “off the table” … even as the President states Chairman Jay Powell “… should resign immediately” … because he has not cut rates.

Of course, one of the President’s arguments surrounding the importance of a rate cut has to do with the interest being paid on the national debt … which now takes up more funds than defense at over $1 Trillion on the interest we pay alone!  According to US Debt Clock, the annual debt is now at 123% of GDP … which many claim is simply not sustainable … but so far, the piper has not shown up to be paid.

Wanting to go outside and enjoy the day I’ll end today’s short note here … but will share one bit of exciting news.

I have a guest from the UK at the house, and she is quite excited about the evening.  No, we are not seeing fireworks displays or anything of the kind but, instead, are going to a what is billed as the largest buffet in the U.S. … at Shady Maple Smorgasbord (in the middle of Amish country) … and crazy as the Brits are, this will be her 4th visit there since her arrival.

It is the small things … and friends … that make this weekend so enjoyable.

You among them.

Have a great holiday,

Joseph G. Witthohn, CFA

Have any questions? Please contact info@teamemerald.com

A Look At The News | July 3, 2025 As of 11:24 AM today: While yesterday’s private payroll number was below expectations, today’s “jobs report” was quite the opposite … and, as a result, the unemployment rate came down a tick (CNBC) https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/03/jobs-report-june-2025.html   Want to raise happier kids?  It might sound counterintuitive, but give them chores as they will have feelings of accomplishment … paving the way toward future success (Inc) https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/harvard-research-says-your-kids-will-be-more-successful-and-happier-if-you-give-them-more-chores/91209426   If you receive a compliment, do you shrug it off?  Don’t. Being gracious that something you do is recognized not only helps you … but is good for the other person as well (CNBC) https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/03/the-right-way-to-respond-to-a-compliment.html   If looking to save some money accomplishing something worthwhile, consider going overseas for an advanced degree. Tuition costs in some places can offset room, board and travel (CNBC) https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/02/american-belgium-masters-degree.html   As you get older, it is not only important to focus on you physical well-being … but your mental health as well. Taking charge of your life is an important step (BestLifeOnline) https://bestlifeonline.com/well-being-memory/   … even so, seen as one of the biggest problems in the elderly is loneliness.  If only many had someone to talk to.  Here is where AI can come to the rescue (Mashable) https://mashable.com/article/intouch-seniors-calls The statements above are supplied for educational purposes only. The statements depict the viewpoints and opinion of the author and are not necessarily the views of Emerald Asset Management or its affiliates. The information described herein is taken from sources which are believed to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of such information is not guaranteed by us. Emerald Asset Management PA, LLC | 717-556-8900 | 3175 Oregon Pike, Leola, PA 17540 Want to change how you receive these emails? You can unsubscribe from this list. ———————————————————————————- The statements above are supplied for educational purposes only. The statements depict the viewpoints and opinion of the author and are not necessarily the views of Emerald Asset Management or its affiliates. The information described herein is taken from sources which are believed to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of such information is not guaranteed by us.