Economic perspective and community connection were the focus of Thursday’s Rooster Booster breakfast, which featured remarks from Baird Investment Strategist Ross Mayfield.
Mayfield urged attendees not to be swayed by negative headlines or dire economic predictions.
“Today is as good a time as ever to be an investor,” Mayfield said. “The biggest risk to most investors is themselves; making the wrong decision at the wrong time because of fear or uncertainty.”
Mayfield, a Louisville native and CFA charterholder, emphasized America’s long-standing tradition of innovation and entrepreneurialism, citing it as the primary driver of stock market success. He pointed to recent trends showing a surge in new business applications and the rise of groundbreaking companies such as Nvidia.
“Despite global challenges — inflation, interest rates, a pandemic — entrepreneurialism in the U.S. is thriving,” he said. “We invest in innovation, and the data shows that over time, the stock market overwhelmingly moves upward.”
Mayfield also critiqued the media’s increasing negativity, citing research showing headlines have become more pessimistic over the past several decades.
“Negativity gets clicks. But investors who react emotionally and pull out of the market often miss the rebound,” he said. “History shows that staying the course usually pays off.”
Chamber President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake said the program couldn’t have been more timely.
“We appreciate Baird for bringing this level of expertise to our community,” Brake said. “We’re also proud to welcome our interns and encourage young people to stay engaged in events like this. We even had some fun surprises for them today.”
Shannon Raines, associate branch manager and financial advisor for Baird’s Owensboro office, also addressed the crowd, highlighting the company’s local impact and culture.
“We’re not just building portfolios, we’re helping people build lives,” Raines said. “Whether it’s planning for grandkids, college, or giving back, we sit down with our clients to talk about their dreams.”
Raines said Baird manages $2.4 billion in assets locally, serving more than 4,000 clients with a team of 30 associates, including 18 financial advisors and two summer interns who are heading back to school this week. She added that Baird plans to move into a new location next spring as the firm continues to grow.
The firm’s legacy in Owensboro dates back 80 years to its days as Hilliard Lyons, which merged with Baird in 2019. Raines said what sets them apart is a culture rooted in integrity and long-term commitment.
“We are employee-owned. We celebrate wins together. And we’re all paddling in the same direction,” she said. “We are not your average advisors. We’re exceptional, and we’re just getting started.”
By John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times