Ferguson Wellman Capital Management

Over the last two decades, private credit has rapidly gained popularity as a source of financing for small and middle market companies. Our colleague, Brad Houle, CFA, discusses why current stresses in private credit appear to reflect a more selective lending environment rather than a broader systemic risk. Click the link in the comments to read more.

We are pleased to share that our colleague, Joe Herrle, CFA, has been offered, and has accepted, an increased ownership stake in the firm. Joe (pictured second from the left) joined us in 2021, and leads the firm's alternative assets strategy, among other responsibilities.

Congratulations, Joe, on this milestone and the dedication and hard work it took to get here. We look forward to many more years of continued success at Ferguson Wellman.

Click the link in the comments to learn more about Joe.

Members of our Ferguson Wellman team attended Community Foundation for Southwest Washington's 2026 Annual Luncheon, celebrating philanthropy, civic engagement and community impact. This year’s discussion featuring Rukaiyah Adams of the 1803 Fund highlighted the importance of intentional investment to create equitable opportunities and stronger communities. A bittersweet coincidence — this year's annual luncheon occurred on the birthday of Mark Kralj, a retired colleague of ours who was honored during the "In Memoriam" segment of the program. He would have been 71 on June 2. CFSWW was one of the many organizations Mark supported in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Bond markets are reacting sharply to rising oil prices and inflation concerns, but with long-term inflation expectations still relatively anchored, the question remains: is the bond market overestimating the persistence of today’s pressures? Our colleague, Brad Houle, CFA, discusses this question, and more, in today’s Weekly Market Makers. Click the link in the comments to read.

Recent tax law changes have made 529 plans more flexible at the federal level, especially for K-12 expenses and certain career-focused credentialing programs. Our colleague, Brett Norris, CFP®, reviews how these changes can be useful for families planning across generations, and more, in this month’s wealth management blog. Click the link in the comments to read more.