Investors Reassess Financial Routines Amid Economic Changes

A survey of 1,000 U.S. adults found that many investors are reassessing their financial routines due to recent shifts in the economy. Fewer than half feel prepared to manage changing conditions, and two-thirds express concern about achieving long-term financial goals. In response, 50% plan to cut back on discretionary spending, and 50% plan to increase savings or reassess their investment mix. Those with a financial advisor feel more prepared and are more likely to adjust their portfolios.

Recent economic shifts have prompted many U.S. investors to re-evaluate their financial routines. According to a survey of 1,000 adults, fewer than half (42%) feel prepared to manage changing financial conditions, while two-thirds (66%) are concerned about achieving long-term financial goals [1]. In response to these uncertainties, 50% of respondents plan to cut back on discretionary spending, and another 50% intend to increase savings or reassess their investment mix. Among those working with a financial advisor, 54% plan to adjust their portfolios compared to 36% of those without one [1].

The presence of professional advice seems to influence investor confidence and behavior. Nearly 60% of those with a financial advisor reported feeling prepared for current conditions, compared to only 30% of those without one. Furthermore, 80% of respondents with an advisor turn to them first for financial guidance, highlighting the value of professional advice [1]. Those without advisors most often consult family and friends (57%), followed by financial media (32%) and social platforms (25%) [1].

The survey also revealed a preference for financial products that offer some level of protection. Among respondents invested in the stock market, nearly two-thirds said they would be willing to trade some upside potential for downside protection [1]. This indicates a shift towards more cautious investing strategies, reflecting the broader economic uncertainty.

Separately, Dell Technologies is poised to benefit from the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in enterprises and sovereign initiatives. Bank of America (BofA) predicts that Dell's earnings per share (EPS) could nearly double by 2030, driven by the growth of enterprise and sovereign AI initiatives [2]. BofA Securities recently raised its price target on Dell to $165.00 from $155.00, maintaining a Buy rating on the stock [2]. The research firm projects Dell to grow its topline by approximately 12% over the next five years, compared to just 2% growth over the previous five-year period [2].

Kinder Morgan recently announced a 2% dividend increase and reported strong financial performance in the second quarter of 2025, with sales and net income rising significantly compared to the previous year [3]. The company's stock price moved up 3% over the last quarter, aligning with broader market trends driven by investor focus on positive earnings reports [3]. Kinder Morgan's strong financial results and dividend increase likely added weight to this upward trend, while the flat market over the last week suggests stability in share valuations amid broader economic conditions [3].

In conclusion, the survey indicates that investors are actively managing their finances in response to recent economic shifts. They are seeking clarity, taking action where possible, and rebalancing plans to align with a financial landscape that continues to evolve. Meanwhile, companies like Dell Technologies and Kinder Morgan are poised to benefit from trends such as AI adoption and strong financial performance, respectively.

References:
[1] https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/07/46510275/why-more-investors-are-thinking-about-risk
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/dell-eps-forecast-double-2030-due-ai-adoption-bofa-2507/
[3] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/kinder-morgan-kmi-increases-dividend-173551361.html