Over the past several weeks, one topic has understandably dominated conversations: the escalating conflict with Iran and what it means for markets. Taylor and I spent some time discussing this on our recent CYF podcast, and the conclusion we kept coming back to was simple: it matters—but not always in the way headlines suggest.
At a high level, the economic impact of this conflict is flowing through one primary channel: energy. With tensions affecting key shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices have risen, pushing gasoline higher and reintroducing inflation concerns. We’ve seen this before—not in exact form, but in pattern. And while markets often adapt, the longer disruptions persist—or if negotiations fail to produce a durable outcome—the more meaningful and lasting the impact can become, particularly through energy and a growing perception of policy uncertainty or inconsistency.
Geopolitical shocks tend to create short-term volatility, narrative-driven decision-making, and a sense that “this time is different.” Sometimes it is. But more often, markets adjust faster than expected—and investors who react emotionally tend to do more harm than good.
Road to Independence Song Rec: "Move on Up" by Curtis Mayfield
by Krescent Williams
“Move On Up” by Curtis Mayfield is one of those rare songs that feels both timeless and forward-moving at the same time. That's why it's one of my favorite songs AND this month's Road to Independence song recommendation. With its driving rhythm, soaring horns, and steady momentum, the track captures a sense of optimism that isn’t naïve, it’s earned. There’s a certain kind of optimism that doesn’t ignore reality; it pushes through it. This classic song has that optimism—it doesn’t promise that the path will be easy, but it does suggest that progress is always within reach for those willing to keep going.
At its core, “Move On Up” is about perseverance and upward mobility. Mayfield’s lyrics encourage listeners to keep pushing forward despite setbacks, emphasizing discipline, patience, and belief in a better future. It reflects a deeply American idea: that through effort and resilience, individuals can improve their circumstances and build something meaningful over time. In most worthwhile success, there’s no sudden breakthrough or overnight transformation. There’s no shortcut promised; only the steady reward of continued movement. Curtis’ lyrics cut straight to that reality, with firmness and understanding: "Bite your lip, and take the trip, though there may be a wet road ahead, and you cannot slip, just move on up."
What makes the song especially powerful is how it pairs that message with energy and hope. It doesn’t just tell you to keep going, it makes you feel like you can. That momentum is not perfection or arrival, it's the lasting energy of consistency and the ability to forge your own path. And in the context of independence, “Move On Up” represents the lived experience of freedom: the ability to strive, to grow, and to pursue a life that is continually moving forward. That same forward-driving energy mirrors the path to financial freedom. It's steady, disciplined progress that compounds over time into financial independence.
Bonus tip: Check out the extended version — all 8 minutes and 49 seconds of good energy.
250 Years Later: When Responsibility Became Real
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, I’m reflecting each month on the enduring spirit of liberty that drove real people to risk everything—not the slogans or stagecraft we often see today, but as a lived commitment to self-determination, dignity, and financial freedom. That same spirit continues to shape our values and the work we do at ALTIUS.
As we continue our journey toward America’s 250th anniversary, May of 1776 marks a turning point that is often overlooked. On May 15, the Second Continental Congress took a decisive step—recommending that the colonies begin forming their own governments. This was not yet a formal declaration of independence, but it was something just as significant.
It was the moment Americans were told, in effect: you must now govern yourselves.
Up to this point, much of the colonial effort had been focused on resistance—petitions, protests, and attempts at reconciliation. But this resolution acknowledged a deeper reality: independence would not simply be granted. It would require new institutions, new responsibilities, and a willingness to replace what was being left behind.
In that sense, May 1776 represents a shift from aspiration to action.
The same is true of financial independence. It’s one thing to want it. It’s another to build the structure required to sustain it—through discipline, planning, and consistent decision-making over time. Freedom, whether political or financial, is not just declared. It is constructed. And it is earned.
Freedom begins with ownership—of your choices, your money, and your future.
Michael Williams, CFP
ALTIUS Financial, Inc.
michael@altiusfinancial.com
303-584-9271
* The views expressed represent the opinion of ALTIUS Financial, Inc. The views are subject to change and are not intended as a forecast or guarantee of future results. This material is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice and is not intended as an endorsement of any specific investment. Stated information is derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources that have not been independently verified for accuracy or completeness. While ALTIUS Financial, Inc. believes the information to be accurate and reliable, we do not claim or have responsibility for its completeness, accuracy, or reliability. Statements of future expectations, estimates, projections, and other forward-looking statements are based on available information and ALTIUS Financial, Inc.'s view as of the time of these statements. Accordingly, such statements are inherently speculative as they are based on assumptions that may involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Past performance is not indicative of future results.