May 2026 KWP Newsletter

There was a time when capturing a moment meant waiting—watching as a photograph slowly revealed itself in your hands, a tiny miracle you could hold. For many, this instant magic felt like it might last forever, a tangible way to freeze memories in time.

That feeling came to life with the debut of the Polaroid camera in 1948, which let people snap a picture and see it develop within minutes. It became a staple of daily life, cherished for its immediacy and charm. But as technology races forward, even beloved staples can quickly become distant memories. Digital cameras, smartphones, and social media now let us share life across the globe in seconds, turning yesterday’s wonders into today’s routine.

Even as today’s cutting-edge technology may one day be a memory, we can celebrate innovation as it unfolds, embrace change, and adapt to the accelerating pace of our world.

https://dp.la/exhibitions/evolution-personal-camera/polaroid-era

Equities Overview

During the early 2026 market drawdown, concerns focused on geopolitical tensions that may hurt corporate profits, dampen investment, and influence consumer behavior. Yet first quarter earnings reports painted a picture of resilience.

By the third week in April, about 25% of S&P 500 companies reported quarterly results, and roughly 83% exceeded Wall Street earnings expectations—well above the five-year average of 78%. Revenue growth is also impressively strong, with 77% of companies beating revenue estimates, compared to a five-year average of 70%.

These results suggest that the recent rally to all-time highs is underpinned by solid fundamentals, not just market optimism. If the rest of earnings season follows suit, it would mark six consecutive quarters of double-digit earnings growth, the longest streak since the recovery following the 2008 financial crisis.

https://www.blackrock.com/us/financial-professionals/insights/dynamic-patience 

https://www.schroders.com/en-us/us/intermediary/insights/monthly-markets-review---april-2026/ 

Investor Takeaways April and May underscored the importance of diversification and long-term positioning. While equities clawed back with solid gains, sensitivity to inflation, central bank policy, and geopolitical developments were pronounced. Different industries respond differently to global events—energy, defense, technology, and healthcare may each react in unique ways. Managing risk by spreading investments across multiple sectors helps smooth volatility, and positions your portfolio to capture opportunities even when uncertainty dominates the headlines

2026 Tax Updates

2026 brings a few key tax updates that could affect retirement income, Social Security, and Medicare planning. From new income thresholds to adjusted retirement account limits, staying informed can help you make the most of your strategy. Kotys Wealth Professionals is ready to review these updates with you and ensure your plan is positioned for the year ahead.

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-releases-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2026-including-amendments-from-the-one-big-beautiful-bill