Geopolitical volatility is reshaping the global economic landscape, influencing everything from energy markets and trade flows to technological innovation and security strategies. As events in Iran, Ukraine and China drive profound shifts across markets, investors are challenged to adapt to a world where resilience and strategic foresight are more critical than ever. Heightened defense spending, evolving supply chains, and new approaches to international cooperation are redefining opportunities and risks, demanding a sophisticated understanding of the forces at play. In this episode, Gabriela Santos, Chief Market Strategist for the Americas at JPMorgan Asset Management, is joined by Derek Chollet, Head of the JPMorganChase Center for Geopolitics, to share his perspectives on the geopolitical forces shaping today’s markets and tomorrow’s investment decisions.

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College costs have soared well beyond inflation, making education planning a critical challenge for families and advisors. With public and private tuition rising faster than household incomes, the conversation has shifted from simply saving to strategically investing for education. Choosing the right vehicle—like a 529 plan—can make a meaningful difference, offering tax-deferred growth, tax-free withdrawals, and state-level benefits. This episode examines common misconceptions, the impact of procrastination and the realities of scholarships to provide a practical lens for advisors and parents seeking clarity in a changing environment.

In this episode, join Gabriela Santos, Chief Market Strategist for the Americas, and Tricia Scarlata, Head of Education Savings at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, as they share actionable perspectives and personal experiences on building smarter education savings plans.

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Subscribe to the Notes on the Week Ahead podcast for more insights from Dr. David Kelly: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Last year, JPMorganChase announced the launch of the Security and Resiliency Initiative, a 10-year, $1.5 trillion plan to facilitate, finance and invest in industries critical to national security. With an initial $10 billion in direct equity investments, the initiative aims to help select companies accelerate growth, drive innovation and strengthen strategic manufacturing.

As Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorganChase, put it, “It has become painfully clear that the United States has allowed itself to become too reliant on unreliable sources of critical minerals, products and manufacturing – all of which are essential for our national security.” In this episode, Aaron Mulvihill is joined by Jay Horine, Global Head of the Security and Resiliency Initiative, to discuss the priority areas that the initiative will be focusing on and the role that private companies play in making innovation happen.

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Resources:

• For more resources on Alternatives, visit our Guide to Alternatives and Principles of Alternatives Investing
• Listen to the audio version of the Alternative Realities podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify