15 Minutes of Finance

In this episode, James and Brandon break down a real client's insurance policy and reveal the good, the bad, and the ugly. They explain how this policy was sold as an “investment,” why that pitch is misleading, and what it actually means for the client's long-term finances. You'll learn how to spot common red flags, understand what makes good insurance versus bad insurance, and why insurance sold as an investment is rarely a win for the buyer.If you've ever wondered whether your policy is helping or hurting you, this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance gives you the inside look most agents won't.

In this episode, Brandon explains The One Big Beautiful Bill and what it means for taxpayers in 2025 and beyond. This is Part 2 of a two part series where he walks through the most important tax changes, how they could affect your filing strategy, and what opportunities may exist for smarter tax planning. Whether you file on your own or work with a professional, this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance breaks down complex updates in simple terms so you can be prepared for what is ahead.

In this episode, Brandon explains The One Big Beautiful Bill and what it means for taxpayers in 2025 and beyond. This is Part 1 of a two part series where he walks through the most important tax changes, how they could affect your filing strategy, and what opportunities may exist for smarter tax planning. Whether you file on your own or work with a professional, this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance breaks down complex updates in simple terms so you can be prepared for what is ahead.

James breaks down the biggest events moving the markets this week, including major company earnings reports and key economic data like the CPI. Learn how inflation trends and corporate results are shaping investor sentiment and what it could mean for the weeks ahead.

In this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, James shares real life client situations and talks about the latest market news, highlighting why timing the market is one of the hardest challenges investors face. He explains how emotions, fear of missing out, and the temptation to wait for the right time can derail long term success. James also shares why staying invested, even during volatility, often leads to better results and why waiting might be the hardest thing you can do as an investor.If you have ever wondered when to buy, when to sell, or whether to sit out of the market, this episode offers perspective on the discipline and patience required to win over time.Subscribe for weekly insights on market news, investing strategy, and financial planning.#stockmarket #investing #retirement 15 Minutes of Finance is produced by West & Walters Tax and Wealth Management, an independent financial advisory and CPA firm in Carlsbad, California. West & Walters provides comprehensive wealth management, tax planning, and accounting services for individuals and businesses. For more information, visit westandwalters.com. Advisory services offered through 77 Financial Group, a registered investment adviser. All Information is educational in its intent and distribution! Please do not consider this personal financial advice. We believe all clients have unique situations and thus require unique advice.

In this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, host James Walters breaks down the three biggest differences between today's AI boom and the dot-com crash of 2000. From Pets.com to ChatGPT, we explore how technology cycles evolve, why AI is fundamentally different, and what investors can learn from the last major tech mania.You'll learn:-Why today's AI leaders like NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Google are profitable powerhouses instead of hype machines.-How modern infrastructure, global adoption, and automation make the AI revolution more grounded than the 1999 internet frenzy.-What fundamentals actually matter when evaluating AI stocks in 2025.-A fourth bonus metric that truly separates the dot-com era from today's AI revolution: proven profitability across entire ecosystems, not just isolated companies.-Whether you're an investor, advisor, or tech enthusiast, this episode helps you separate innovation from speculation and decide whether AI is the next big thing or just the next big bubble.

In this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, Brandon West interviews Shellee Howard, the CEO and founder of College Ready. They discuss the importance of early preparation for college, the competitive nature of college admissions, and the common mistakes parents and students make during the process. Shellee emphasizes the need for students to market themselves effectively and the importance of understanding financial implications when planning for college. The conversation also touches on alternatives to traditional college paths and offers valuable resources for families navigating the college preparation journey.Shellee's Books: Paying for College 101Schedule a FREE Consultation: www.collegereadyplan.info

In today's episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, we break down the latest market news and what investors should really watch for beneath the headlines. We dive into the forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, Explaining how current P/E is used to value stocks and why it can sometimes paint a misleading picture. James also tackles common misconceptions about valuation, including why a “high” P/E doesn't always mean a stock is overvalued. Whether you're a long term investor or just trying to understand how Wall Street prices stocks, this episode gives you clear, no-jargon insight into today's markets and what it all means for your portfolio.Minor correction Costco trades at a 49 Forward P/E and Nvidia at a 30 Forward P/E

James breaks down what it really means to buy the dip when markets pull back and why staying invested matters more than timing every move. He explains the only four ways to build lasting wealth and why sitting on the sidelines is often the same as losing. This episode also covers today's biggest market movers, key financial headlines, and what they mean for long-term investors. Whether you're new to investing or refining your strategy, James shares clear, practical insights designed to help you navigate volatility and grow your portfolio with confidence. If you want to understand how smart investors think during market dips and how to use these moments to your advantage, this conversation is a must watch.

Everyone's worried about the AI bubble, but they're missing the real balloon quietly inflating behind the scenes; private equity. Trillions in dry powder(cash on hand), overleveraged buyouts, and inflated valuations have turned the private markets into a ticking time bomb. While retail investors chase the next AI stock, institutional portfolios haven't been marked to reality in years. High interest rates are squeezing valuations, funds are struggling to exit deals, and liquidity risk is building beneath the surface. In this episode, we break down why private equity could be the biggest bubble in global finance, why public markets might actually be safer right now, and what this shift means for investors and the next market cycle. If you're worried about a bubble that could make you money but ignoring the balloon that could cost you money, this conversation is for you. Watch more insights on our “15 Minutes of Finance” podcast and subscribe to our channel for weekly investing breakdowns

James breaks down how investors can profit from the explosive growth of artificial intelligence without having to chase the biggest AI names. He explains the full AI ecosystem and how investing from the bottom of the funnel to the top can reduce risk, limit volatility, and remove the guesswork of trying to pick the ultimate AI winners. In this episode, you'll learn how supporting companies that power or benefit from AI behind the scenes can create strong, consistent returns. James also shares real-world examples of “bottom of the funnel” and “top of the funnel” businesses that became highly successful without ever being the main product or platform driving the trend. If you want to understand the smarter way to invest in AI and position your portfolio for long-term growth, this discussion is for you.

Join us for this week's Market News Monday! We're breaking down the latest moves in the stock market, economic updates investors need to know, and one sleeping giant you probably haven't heard enough about; Hippo Holdings (HIPO). Hippo is transforming the insurance technology space, and we'll explain why this company could be one of the most undervalued growth stories in today's market. From financial performance and analyst sentiment to potential catalysts ahead, we dive into the numbers and the story behind this stock's massive potential.

In this episode, James helps viewers sift through the FUD created by clickbait titles and articles. He dives deep into leading economic indicators, particularly the PMI (Purchasing Managers Index), and explains how this often overlooked tool can help investors improve their analysis and sleep better at night.

James covers current events and news and breaks down the entire supply chain of chips and AI and how investors can make money on any point in the cycle.

In today's episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, we cover the latest JOLTS data and what it signals about the strength of the labor market, the history and impact of government shutdowns on the economy, and the ongoing debate around artificial intelligence, highlighting why experts argue AI is still in an exponential growth phase and not a bubble.

James covers market news and updates this week and discusses Intels rising path. He also dives deep into how professional money managers take profits for their clients and when YOU should take profits.

James takes viewers behind the curtain of the insurance profit machine. Discusses a very public fight on linked in and shows investors how they can avoid the insurance Ponzi Scheme.

James breaks down market news and the FUD regarding the “AI bubble”. He breaks down the concept of market bubbles and what they really mean in the latest episode of 15 minutes of finance 

Today James breaks down our current economy and the advantages of moving from a consumption economy to a production economy. He also explains the industries set to benefit the most from this change! 

James dives into the last 10/12 recessions and what they've had in common with rate drops. He also looks in the mirror for each of his stock picks from 2025.

In today's episode we cover the latest market news with a focus on Tesla. We explain the golden cross, where the 50 day moving average surpasses the 200 day, and why this matters to traders and long term investors. We also look ahead to the Federal Reserve meeting on Wednesday and the possibility of rate cuts. Finally, we dive into the reasons Tesla has the potential to surge over the next five to ten years as the AI race accelerates and innovation continues to shape its future.Please remember this is for educational purposes only and is not to be considered individual finanical advice- every persons situation is unique and therefore requires unique advice.

In this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, James breaks down the three core factors of investing: risk, reward, and volatility, and how they shape every financial decision. Drawing on a classic Charlie Munger insight about buying wonderful companies at fair prices, James explains why disciplined investing doesn't have to be complicated. You'll also hear why everyday investors can manage their own portfolios if they commit to truly understanding what they own and why they own.

The market is hitting new highs, but does that really mean everyone is a genius investor? In this episode, James explains why judging performance in a bull market can be misleading and why it is critical to look deeper than the surface.He also reveals how Wall Street analysts use fear-driven headlines to manipulate retail investors into making costly mistakes, often pushing them to sell when they should not.To close, James adds a new company to his firm's “Stocks to Watch” list, a pick you will want on your radar.

In this episode, James breaks down the classic market phrase “buy the rumor, sell the news” and what it really means for investors today. He also highlights the key events to watch this week, from CPI data releases to major updates from companies like Meta and Nvidia. To wrap things up, James dives into the real estate market, exploring its role in a diversified portfolio, the challenges facing the industry right now, and where he believes opportunities may lie in the years ahead.

James goes over one of the industry's best kept secrets and covers current market news during all time highs. He also discusses how headlines/articles are misleading and his preferred 8 indicators of what boom or bust actually looks like for markets and the economy.

In this episode, James breaks down the latest stock market news, explaining how interest rate moves could impact equities for the rest of the year. He covers the recent dip in Palantir (PLTR) and why investors shouldn't panic, then shares a timeless general portfolio allocation strategy for long-term growth. Plus, James adds a new pick to his ‘Stocks to Watch' list for smart investors looking ahead.

James breaks down this week's market moves, earnings buzz, and what could happen if inflation data looks good and the Fed starts flirting with rate cuts. He reveals his firm's proprietary “ideal” allocation for long-term investors and then wades into a full-blown LinkedIn throwdown with a CFP who's trying to talk TSP investors out of the C Fund...aka the S&P 500.

James covers market news and goes deep into PLTR earnings and why it's a beast in the investment world. The Who, What, and How of Palantir. The things that make PLTR tick and why people get the companies mission so wrong. Also James Dives into gross profit margin and how you can quickly evaluate a company's efficiency in making money- one of the most important factor in being healthy. Referring to the episode, here is the link to the Peter Theil interview James spoke about. Please click HERE and begin listening at 37:00

Is the market headed for liftoff-or a crash landing? In this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, James breaks down evidence for both a potential market boom and looming doom. He dives into the efficient frontier, explaining how it can help optimize your portfolio during uncertain times. Plus, James covers the latest market news and explores one of the strangest variables in market shaking global news: alien disclosure. Could extraterrestrial revelations in September shake investor confidence or open up unexpected opportunities?

James goes over the all time highs and the important factors that could send it higher (or lower) and explains the value and concern of the oncoming Robo-advisor apocolypse. James also details a new stock to watch for his firm, West and Walters Tax and Wealth Management and dives into some that have already shown real performance promise!

As the holiday weekend approaches, James shares his top stock picks and breaks down the latest market movements. He also explains why interest rate levels matter—and how the right interest rate “sweet spot” can drive higher valuations and stronger investor returns.Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE (Always free) financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters⁠⁠

Every week, we talk about the market news and investment climate. Today, we talk about Palantir's big jump in graduating from the Russell 2000 small-cap index, we see how some of our channel's claims have panned out so far this year, and, we give some insight into the lack of expertise so many "financial professionals" have when giving you advice.

James goes into detail about the many ways the investment world tries to rip people like YOU, off. James covers things like: high fees, fear selling, many hands in the pot, and just plain BAD advice. Plus more! Tune in if you want to learn the ways to avoid them or how you can help someone you know to avoid falling into the same traps. Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE (Always free) financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters⁠

James goes over Market news for the week and focuses on topics like- Israel-Iran conflict, Interest rates, and Warren Buffett's take on patience in the market! Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

James goes over Stable coins, wars and stocks, market news and everyone's favorite- stocks to watch! You'll learn about the company Circle Internet Group, why diversification is for the average investor and not the diligent investor, and lastly, what stocks James and Co. are watching!

Brandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, we talk about the habits of successful investors. Higher earners often fall into "lifestyle inflation" where they never feel they can get ahead. Implement these habits to successfully build your wealth, regardless of your tax bracket!Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

James Walters, CRPC, delivers the market news for the week diving into how PLTR has hit new highs, how Chip makers are seeing an increased demand for their chips, and how there can't be a bubble for AI when the business is so good even companies are faking it! Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery! James also covers the feud between President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk and why the US debt isn't that big of deal but spending could be!

Brandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, we talk about whether you are a passive real estate investor, a "Real Estate Professional," or in operation of a trade or business involving real estate. Each of these designations come with tax deductions and strategies, so understanding them can help save you thousands on your tax bill!Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

Brandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, we get really honest about your money! Are you sure you're working with the right people to handle your investments? Learn how to start getting better financial knowledge and avoid industry pitfalls!Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

James discusses the current market news and dives deep into short interest- A very powerful tool to see if all the hate for a company is the real deal or just word salad from someone on CNBC. Also, James discusses how desigining a portfolio is a lot like being the captian on the playground having to pick teams- Sometimes it is the short chubby guy who is the best player, but you just can't tell until you see him in action. Similarly, it is the boring company that earns you the most return. You won't know until the game begins. Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

Brandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, I'm going to cover a taboo but important topic: why and how should churches (and other 501(c)(3) organizations) invest their wealth to multiply the giving of their members. We talk about how church investments are different from other entities, and the effect a growth mindset can have on church finances!Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

James goes into market news for the week and discusses his ideal allocation for individual equities in a portfolio. At the end of the episode James deep dives into direct quotes from some of history's best investors- Ray Dalio, Warren Buffett, Peter Lynch, and Tom Lee. Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: ⁠Contact - West & Walters⁠Want to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? ⁠Schedule A Call - West & Walters

Brandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, I'm going to cover one of our more complex topics we've discussed: tax-loss harvesting through Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs). Let's dive into one of the tools of the ultra high net worth individual, where investments are separately managed in a brokerage account designed to capture losses to offset other income, without increasing risk exposure or sacrificing diversification. Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: Contact - West & WaltersWant to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? Schedule A Call - West & Walters

James dives deep into market news, reading a companies quarterly earnings report, and why one puzzle piece doesn't mean the whole picture is ruined. If you'd like your FREE financial plan for the month of May, schedule here! If you would like to follow us on instagram, follow us here!

Send us a textBrandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, I'm going to tell you the mistakes I already know you're making in your 401k plan and explain why they're costing you hundreds of thousands of dollars in retirement! Let's discuss fees, investment options, and long-term planning goals to help you make the most of your 401k plan. Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: Contact - West & WaltersWant to talk to a professional investment advisor, or schedule your FREE financial planning meeting? Schedule A Call - West & Walters

Send us a textIn this episode of 15 Minutes of Finance, James breaks down the latest market news, shares insights on why Palantir (PLTR) remains one of his favorite companies, and dives into the world of valuation ratios. He explains how different analysts often interpret financial metrics like P/E, PEG, and EV/EBITDA in varied ways—and why these estimates are almost never spot on, often missing the mark by several percentage points. If you've ever wondered why stock analysis feels more like art than science, this episode is for you. Want your spot in May for a financial plan? Go to our website here: West and Walters and send us a message! And if you want to follow us on Instagram as we expand our social outreach (youtube coming soon), Follow us here: 15 minutes of finance 

Send us a textBrandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, I'm going to tell you exactly how I would confidently make a million dollars in just 30 years. I can all but guarantee you it is easier, and more doable, than you realize. Let's talk about some practical steps, investment principals, and investment options you can look at on your path to becoming a millionaire!Have a question or topic you want to hear covered in a future episode? Send us a direct message here: Contact - West & WaltersWant to talk to a professional investment advisor? Schedule a free meeting here: Schedule A Call - West & Walters

Send us a textJames discusses current news, stocks to watch, and why even the best investors get it wrong. 

Send us a textBrandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, we talk about the compounding effect of early financial mistakes. Why should we weather this current financial downturn, and how bad would selling on the drop be?? Plus, we dispel 3 of the most common pieces of bad financial advice that are being spread today.

Send us a textBrandon West, CPA walks you through various tax planning strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Today, we talk about the single most misunderstood aspect of taxation in the USA: when are taxes due?? I bet it's NOT when you think. Learn how to properly tax plan throughout the year and avoid costly penalties with the IRS! Plus, learn how we lowered a real estate professional's tax bill by almost $10,000 this tax season!

Send us a textJames reviews tariffs, news and goes into detail on a case study of particularly bad finanical advice.