Checking In with Ara- June 2023

I’ve thought of a new way to keep in touch – monthly update videos. I realize we’re all leading busy lives, and we may not get to converse as frequently as we’d like. So, through these videos, I can share personal updates and my perspective on world events. My hope is that we can continue to stay connected, despite our packed schedules.

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to attend a wedding in Japan. The groom was my childhood best friend, someone I’ve known since the age of five. His wife is Japanese, and they decided to celebrate their union in her native country. It was a joyous occasion, and I had the honor of being the best man.

Japan, in itself, was a breathtaking experience. The cuisine was exceptional, the people welcoming, and the rich culture and history added depth to my visit. I cannot recommend visiting it enough; it should definitely be on your bucket list. Despite my lack of fluency in Japanese, I managed to navigate through the country relatively unscathed.

Interestingly, my trip reminded me of some parallels between the economic circumstances we’re facing today and Japan’s economic situation in the late 1980s. Similar to our current inflation concerns, Japan experienced a rapid economic growth that led their government to raise interest rates. This topic has emerged frequently in client meetings, with queries about the impact of inflation. Rest assured, we have strategic measures to mitigate these concerns both within and beyond our portfolio.

Just wanted to ensure everyone is doing well. Remember, you can always reach out to me through my staff, email, or phone call. I’m here for you and hope you’re doing well. Take care and see you soon!