October 2025 Blog Newsletter
Captain’s Log
Staying Calm During the Government Shutdown
As I write this, the government has been shut down for nine days and counting. The Kalshi betting markets currently estimate it could last around 25 days. The fact that people can bet on things like this is a bit wild—but then again, maybe they should find better things to do with their time!
Historically, government shutdowns have lasted an average of eight days, with the longest lasting 34 days. Importantly, only about 27% of the government is affected this time since this is a budget shutdown, not a debt ceiling shutdown. (A debt ceiling shutdown would mean the government can’t borrow more money, which has broader implications.)
Programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and the U.S. Postal Service remain fully operational. However, about 750,000 of the government’s roughly 2.6 million workers are currently furloughed. Critical services—including the military, law enforcement, air traffic controllers, TSA, and border security—continue to operate, though some are doing so temporarily without pay.
While the market impact of a budget-related shutdown tends to be smaller than that of a debt ceiling standoff, it still affects many individuals and services. The estimated effect on GDP is roughly -0.01% per week—minor but not invisible.
While the market impact of a budget-related shutdown tends to be smaller than that of a debt ceiling standoff, it still affects many individuals and services. The estimated effect on GDP is roughly -0.01% per week—minor but not invisible.
Since 1976, there have been 20 government shutdowns. The Carter administration alone experienced six, each lasting an average of 12 days. More recently, both the Clinton and Trump administrations went through two shutdowns each.
What This Means for Investors
If market volatility arises and the shutdown continues for several more days, view this as an opportunity—not a crisis. Periods like this are often brief, and markets historically recover quickly once the uncertainty passes.
If you have excess cash above your emergency fund, consider investing it strategically. This could be a good time to fill up your Roth IRA or contribute to your retirement plans while prices are temporarily lower.
At Anchor Wealth, our goal is to help you stay calm and focused on the long-term plan. Political and economic headlines come and go, but your financial plan is built to withstand short-term disruptions like this one.
Staying Focused on What You Can Control
While uncertainty often grabs headlines, your success as an investor is determined by discipline, patience, and a clear plan—not by reacting to short-term noise. We’ve seen time and again that markets reward long-term thinkers who stay the course.
If you have questions or want to discuss how this temporary event fits into your overall strategy, reach out to your advisor at Anchor Wealth. We’re here to help you navigate moments like this with clarity and confidence, keeping you anchored to what matters most—your purpose, your goals, and your peace of mind.
Adam Ludwig, CEO/ Wealth Advisor
A Sincere THANK YOU for your generosity
On behalf of our entire team, we want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who donated to our Operation Christmas Child drive this year.
Because of your support, we were able to fill 55 shoeboxes, exceeding our goal!! It’s inspiring to see our clients partner with us not only in business but also in giving back to the global community.
These gifts will deliver joy, love, and hope to children who may not have ever received a gift before. Your contribution truly makes a tangible difference in a child’s life.
Thank you again for your incredible kindness and for being a valued part of the Anchor Wealth Management family.
Three Tips to Mastering the Art of Debt-Free Living
Picture this: you’ve just been paid, and before the weekend is over, your paycheck feels like it’s already gone. Credit card bills, car payments, subscriptions, eating out — it can feel like you’re working just to stay afloat. For many, this is where the journey toward debt-free living begins: with the realization that something has to change.
The good news? It can change. Debt-free living isn’t about being perfect, it’s about making intentional decisions and building habits that put you back in control of your money.
As financial expert Dave Ramsey famously says, “Personal finance is 80% behavior and only 20% head knowledge.”
The key is turning good intentions into action and building habits that stick. Here are three practical tips to help you get started:
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