In a case of almost perfect irony, I have waited a long time to use this theme. However, with Google’s AI Overview informing me ”the play’s tone is absurdist and nihilistic,” it seemed appropriate at this point in the market and election cycle.

As we reach the midpoint of summer, the only thing rising faster than the thermometer has been the VIX, a widely followed measure of market volatility.

We are privileged to work with insightful people here at Formidable, and during a recent call one of our colleagues mentioned how the current market reminds him of Jenga. Accordingly, in the spirit of family vacation rainy day activities, we will use Jenga (and a few other games) as inspiration this quarter.

With the greater Cincinnati area in close proximity to the path of the solar eclipse, we look to the sky for inspiration for this quarter’s update and outlook.

“In case you haven’t noticed it, and judging by the attendance, you haven’t, the Indians have managed to win a few here and there, and are threatening to climb out of the cellar.” - Harry Doyle in Major League.

The weather has just now started to reach consistent levels of freezing temperatures, so hopefully soon we will introduce our children to the joys of skiing.