Be Real with Nicolet Bank

Hosted by Nicolet National Bank

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Oct 2025

Language

EN-US

About the show

Join us for a conversation with local business professionals and leaders. Episodes are available every other week! Nicolet Bank is a growing, full-service, community bank providing services ranging from commercial and consumer banking to wealth management and retirement plan services. Founded in Green Bay in 2000, Nicolet National Bank operates branches in Northeast and Central Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan. More information can be found at www.nicoletbank.com.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 10, 2025Episode 718 min

Stock Market Rally Extended in Q3

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Market & Economic Update Returns Continue to Broaden into Small-cap Government Shutdown Federal Reserve Cuts Interest Rates Jobs Reports Earnings Season PreviewShow Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

September 5, 2025Episode 622 min

Small-caps Throw Their Hat in the Ring

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Market and Economic OverviewWhat has been happening in the IPO MarketJobs & consumer spendingFOMC/Jackson Hole/Fed Funds RateEarnings Season ResultsSmall-cap OutperformanceShow Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

August 1, 2025Episode 524 min

Technology Bracing Earnings (Again)

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Earnings SeasonDollar AppreciationRates and Municipal BondsConcentration in Market RecoveryTariff-Led InflationMassive Spending from Technology Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

July 2, 2025Episode 426 min

Market Melt-Up

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Market & Economic Review of the past month.Jobs resilience Oil Market volatility Stock Market RecoveryDollar Continued Weakness/interest ratesHousingShow Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

May 2, 2025Episode 322 min

Navigating Tariff Uncertainty

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Q1 2025 GDP #sOutperformance of Gold in 2025Job Data on FridaySoft data vs hard dataVolatility in interest ratesFederal Reserve target Rate PathMid-cap > Large-capGeographically Diversified PortfolioShow Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

March 7, 2025Episode 218 min

Market’s Response to Tariffs

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Adam Longlais and Erik Zurek discuss:Dividend Yield Stocks YTD – Discussion of rates and why dividend yield stocks are performing so well International Stock outperformance to begin the yearMLPs – commodities/data centers and energy consumption and if you want reason for some of the recent weaknessInflation reaccelerating/ balance of higher uncertainty and inflation Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Erik ZurekAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

January 10, 2025Episode 127 min

Navigating Financial Trends and Predictions for 2025

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. We start the episode off saying goodby to Mike Steppe. Mike Steppe and Adam Longlais discuss: How have the financial markets performed over the past couple of weeks?What is the likely impact of the recent employment report? As we enter mid-January, the next round of earnings numbers are released. What is the expectation for earnings in the fourth quarter? Are the results likely to track better or worse than expectations? The returns in the energy sector significantly lagged (S&P 500 Energy Sector up 5.72%) the broader market in 2024. Do you expect better performance in 2025?What is your outlook on the performance of European stocks? Are the relatively attractive valuation levels sufficient to offset the weak regional economies and the potential impact from tariffs in 2025? After a substantial rally in September and early October, Chinese equities have performed relatively poorly over the past three months. Are Chinese equities likely to remain volatile in 2025? Is the Fed likely to continue lowering overnight interest rates in 2025? Will the Fed react to political pressure in setting monetary policy under the new Administration in Washington DC. After a strong performance in 2024 (up 8.19%), what is the outlook for high yield bonds in 2025? Be sure to subscribe so you never miss the latest updates on investment management, the economy and much more in this podcast hosted by Anthony Wilhelms of Nicolet Wealth Management.Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms & Adam LonglaisAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

December 13, 2024Episode 1920 min

Market Update and a Continued Look into 2025

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Mike Steppe and Adam Longlais discuss:How have the financial markets performed over the past couple of weeks?A number of the MAG 7 stocks have outperformed the S&P 500 index over the past three (3) months. Do you expect the MAG 7 stocks to perform well in 2025?Cyber Monday spending was up 7.3% in 2024 versus 2023. Do you expect consumer spending in the US to remain strong as we enter 2025?Is the Fed likely to continue cutting overnight interest rates? What rate on overnight interest rates should we expect by June 30, 2025? Why does this rate matter to businesses and individuals?The recent National Federation of Independent Businesses survey showed a surge in optimism. Are we likely to see small businesses do well in 2025?What type of performance should investors expect from emerging market equities in 2025?Why has the yield advantage on corporate bonds been so tight in comparison to comparable maturity US Treasury yields? What does these tight yield spreads mean for the high yield bond market?Do you expect the US Treasury yield curve to steepen over the next year?Be sure to subscribe so you never miss the latest updates on investment management, the economy and much more in this podcast hosted by Anthony Wilhelms of Nicolet Wealth Management.Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Mike SteppeAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

November 29, 2024Episode 1820 min

Market Update and Look into 2025

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Mike Steppe and Adam Longlais discuss:How have the financial markets performed over the past couple of weeks?What are earnings per share projected to be for S&P 500 Index companies in the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the full year 2025?Are you expecting the positive trend in consumer spending to hold up through the Christmas season?As we look into 2025, what are the key challenges facing the US housing market?Are investors starting to anticipate higher corporate earnings from lower corporate taxes in 2025?Despite the stronger than expected global economy in 2024, why are oil prices trading at levels similar to prices at the beginning of the year? Do you anticipate higher oil prices over the next several years?Are potential tariffs increasing the price of some US goods?Do you expect the Fed to cut overnight interest rates by 25 bps at the next FOMC meeting (12-18-24)? Are additional cuts expected in 2025?Be sure to subscribe so you never miss the latest updates on investment management, the economy and much more in this podcast hosted by Anthony Wilhelms of Nicolet Wealth Management.Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Mike SteppeAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.

November 7, 2024Episode 1717 min

Post Election Market Update

Welcome to the Nicolet Wealth Management Investment Podcast. In this episode Mike Steppe and Erik Zurek discuss:With the republican election, will the expected tax cuts provide a boost to US GDP growth in 2025?Why is the US dollar strengthening after the election? Do you think the new administration will use tariffs as part of their trade policy? How does this likely impact global growth rates?In the post-election financial markets, the US equity markets have performed strongly. Do you expect this positive trend to continue?In the equity markets, what jumps out at you in terms of election implications with regard to the technology, financials, health care and energy sectors?With the Trump win, will the financial markets expect a higher level of inflation? How will inflation expectations impact the US Treasury yield curve?Will the Fed likely continue to cut overnight interest rates at the upcoming FOMC meetings in 2024? Be sure to subscribe so you never miss the latest updates on investment management, the economy and much more in this podcast hosted by Anthony Wilhelms of Nicolet Wealth Management.Show Notes:Looking for more information about Nicolet National Bank? Check out https://www.nicoletbank.com/Looking for access to our prior podcasts and webinars? Check out The Vault Blog - Nicolet National Bank (nicoletbank.com)Contact information for Anthony Wilhelms, Adam Longlais, and Mike SteppeAlthough we believe it to be reliable as of the publication date and have sought to take reasonable care in its preparation, all information provided is for informational purposes only and we make no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy, reliability, or completeness and assume no duty to make any updates in the event of future changes. Past performance may not be indicative of future market results. Any examples used (including specific securities) are generic and meant for illustration purposes only and are not, and should not be interpreted as, offers to buy or sell such securities. To the extent indices are referenced, please note that you are not able to invest directly in an index. Nicolet Wealth Management is a brand name that refers to Nicolet National Bank and certain of its departments and affiliates that provide investment advisory, trust, retirement plan level services, and insurance services. Investment advisory services offered through Nicolet Advisory Services, LLC (dba Nicolet Wealth Management), a registered investment advisor. Securities offered through Private Client Services, LLC (“PCS”), member FINRA/SIPC. PCS is not affiliated with Nicolet National Bank or Nicolet Wealth Management. Neither Nicolet Advisory Services nor its affiliates offer tax or legal advice. Investors should consult with their legal and tax professionals before making investment decisions. All investments are subject to risks, including possible loss of principal, and are: NOT FDIC INSURED; NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY; AND NEITHER DEPOSITS OR OTHER OBLIGATIONS OF, NOR GUARANTEED BY, Nicolet National Bank or affiliates.