Stocks fell but Oak Partners stands tall with economist guest speaker for post election worry

The S&P 500 may have been seeing red, but the wealth management team at Oak Partners proved that cooler heads prevail. When uncertainty and volatility leave clients wondering about their next move, data can speak volumes.

On Thursday, November 5, the Crown Point-based firm invited clients to Lighthouse Restaurant for an invigorating presentation, dinner, and Q&A session with industry strategist Andrew Opdyke, CFA, senior economist and market researcher at First Trust Advisors.

The goal was simple: give clients a calm, data-driven look at the economy. Though lower stock prices can signal danger, Opdyke’s research paints a different, more conclusive picture with information grounded in global research that sought to cut through the noise of the closing bell.

Crystal DeHaven, director of client experience at Oak Partners, opened the night by thanking clients for spending their evening with the firm and for their continued trust in the company. The Oak Partners team is mighty in numbers, from partners Marc and Mario Ruiz, sons of the late founder Fred Ruiz, to Will Ruiz, Mario’s son and the third generation of the family in the business, and the many others helping to carry on the family tradition.

DeHaven pointed to the three things the firm prides itself on: communication, education, and service.
The evening proved that while the firm prides itself on professionalism, it is also committed to making wealth management fun and community-driven.

Behind every advisor, DeHaven added, is a full team of staff dedicated to serving clients.

“Not every financial advisor has that,” she said.

Marc Ruiz then took the mic to introduce Opdyke, “the most charismatic economist that we know.” He travels the world bringing timely, honest economic data to clients.

Opdyke offered reassurance through data following the midterm elections, reminding the room that markets have grown under every combination of political leadership.

“Roughly half the country’s going to be happy. Roughly half the country’s going to be upset. Then, everybody’s going to go back to work,” Opdyke said. “What the people do, what businesses do, matters far more than what the politicians do.”

He walked clients through the forces he watches most closely, including corporate earnings, consumer spending, and the massive buildout behind artificial intelligence (AI). To put that AI investment in perspective, he compared it to building a brand-new NFL stadium every single day.

Opdyke closed on a note of gratitude, tying today’s progress to the generations who built it.

“This nation changes the world,” he said.

As Opdyke wrapped up, dinner was served, and the floor opened for questions. Clients raised their hands to ask about the markets, the election results, and what comes next.

For clients and their advisors alike, Thursday’s event was a chance to build stronger relationships outside the office. For Steve Kavois, partner and wealth advisor, nights like this are exactly what set Oak Partners apart. He has been with the firm for 21 of its 33 years in operation.

“Our willingness to engage with our clients regularly makes us unique,” Kavois said. “People have tons of questions, so we bring in a very well-renowned economist to come in to talk to all the clients and calm their nerves.”

With nerves settled and questions answered, Kavois hoped clients went home knowing their money was being put to work with the right firm.

“As a firm that’s been around for 33 years, we’ve managed money in all the political climates, and clients have come out okay every time,” he said. “It’s all about time. It doesn’t matter what you start with. It’s just getting started. Even little, tiny amounts – you’d be amazed how well that pays off.”

Looking ahead, Kavois said volatility around midterm elections is normal, and history shows markets often rally once the results bring certainty. Like many investors, he is watching AI closely, both for its market impact and for how it will change daily life.

His message for anyone tempted to react to the headlines: “Don’t fight it. Just stick with that.”

Oak Partners continues to study the numbers and keep moving forward more informed and more prepared. Whether you’re planning for retirement or just getting started, the team at Oak Partners is ready to help you build a plan that holds steady through every market and every election cycle.

To schedule a conversation with an advisor, visitoakpartners.com.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.