What Strong Corporate Earnings Mean for Your Wealth in 2025
If you’re a law firm owner, you already know that managing your practice is just one part of the bigger picture. You’re also trying to build personal wealth, plan for retirement, and make smart decisions with your money. That’s where understanding what’s happening in the markets can actually make a big difference.
The first quarter of 2025 just wrapped up, and despite all the headlines about tariffs and economic uncertainty, corporate America had a strong showing. And as your financial advisor or certified financial planner, I want to break down what that means for you—and how you can use it to your advantage.
Historical S&P 500 Year-Over-Year Earnings Growth
Earnings Are Up—Way Up
Let’s start with the big picture: S&P 500 earnings were up 13% compared to this time last year. That’s a big deal. It means companies across the board—especially in tech, industrials, financials, and health care—are making more money than expected.
Even better? Every sector in the S&P 500 beat Wall Street’s forecasts. That’s rare.
The tech sector, driven by companies building out artificial intelligence, led the charge. But the strength wasn’t limited to Silicon Valley—there was solid performance across the board. And when companies do well, the market tends to follow.
If you’ve been investing consistently (whether through your SEP IRA, Solo 401(k), or personal brokerage), there’s a good chance you’ve benefited from this momentum.
Earnings Growth Comparison (Q1 2025 v. Q1 2024)
Why This Matters to You as a Law Firm Owner
You may not live and breathe the stock market—but your financial future is still tied to it.
As a law firm owner, your wealth is often tied up in your business. But your long-term goals—like stepping back from the day-to-day, enjoying more freedom, or passing something down—depend on building assets outside the firm too. That’s where asset management and smart wealth management come in.
Here’s what this strong earnings season means for your strategy:
Now’s a great time to review your investment plan. Are you taking advantage of what’s working in the market right now?
Diversification still matters. Technology is booming, but don’t overlook other strong sectors like health care and industrials.
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, consider getting back in. The market doesn’t wait for the perfect moment—and strong earnings like this can create real opportunities.
But Let’s Not Get Too Comfortable
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. In April, new tariffs were announced, and we haven’t yet seen how they’ll affect company profits in Q2 and beyond. Rising costs could start to squeeze margins, and companies are already sounding more cautious about what’s ahead.
That’s why it’s important to stay flexible. We don’t have to overhaul your entire plan every quarter—but we should keep an eye on the big trends, so you’re not caught off guard. That’s what thoughtful wealth management is all about.
Final Thoughts
Running a law firm is demanding. You don’t always have time to follow earnings reports or dig into economic forecasts—and that’s okay. That’s my job.
My role as your Certified Financial Planner isn’t just to help you invest. It’s to help you turn the money your firm generates into a meaningful, lasting legacy. Whether that means saving for retirement, scaling back your hours, or investing in new ventures—you need a financial strategy that aligns with your life and your practice.
Q1 showed us that opportunity is still out there. If you're ready to make the most of it, let’s talk.
Want help building a financial plan that fits your goals as a law firm owner?
Schedule a call today and let’s start putting the pieces together.