Investing Sense™

As soon as we got used to all-time highs in the markets almost every single week, now we’re once again fighting a familiar foe: market volatility. Bob and Andy discuss the always-changing market conditions, and the importance of having a personalized, long-term financial plan. The one thing that’s still the same, however, is this can’t happen until you simply get started, and they offer a way for you to do that RIGHT now!

Today’s show is full of in-depth conversations as two of our favorite guests stop by! First, Andy sits down with JT Taylor, who gives his unfiltered, insider’s perspective on the world of politics, including the after effect of the Kavanaugh hearing and the midterm elections. Then, Don Luskin joins in, to discuss his unique perspective on interest rates, the trade wars, and more!

The Barron’s list of the top independent financial advisors was recently released, and there’s a familiar name that made its debut ranking! Bob and Andy talk about how the growth of this list mirrors the growth and changes in the industry and how it’s good news for investors and clients. Also, Don Luskin joins the show to give his valuable perspective and insights on the current big stories in the financial world, including the latest on the Fed and interest rates.

As autumn colors unfold and the calendar flips to October, many people look forward to upcoming holidays, college football and the World Series, or simpler pleasures like cooler weather. Buried in the busyness of the season is an important announcement from the Social Security Administration: the annual Cost of Living Adjustment. It’s estimated to be the largest increase in recent years, so Bob and Andy take a look at how it could impact retirees. Plus, Bill Tracy is in-studio to talk about the rate hike, and his outlook on the 4th quarter.

The markets are moving fast, surging to new all-time highs again this week. But uncertainty is also on the rise, with news about interest rate hikes, talks about trade wars, and so many other political and social issues heating up. So, how can smart investors turn these variables into opportunities? Bob and Andy have an easy course of action to take RIGHT now, to get much-needed clarity and focus.

ABob and Andy explore one of the ways that investors could be accidentally hurting themselves: loss aversion. Recalling their conversation with Dan Ariely, a leading expert on psychology and finance, this is just one example of irrational investor behavior. Plus, a caller asks a frustrated, yet important question: Why pay fees for bad investment advice?

Andy continues his series of talking with recent retirees about achieving the goal of retirement. Today, Bob, who is a long-time family friend, opens up and shares some of the hardest lessons he learned while transitioning into retirement and growing older. Plus, Senior Analyst Bill Tracy is back to talk about the latest trends from the Financial Engines Research Center, including a forecast for a sector “shake-up” and other events making for a busy September!

Happy Labor Day weekend! Small cap stocks have been leading the way over the summer, rising just like the temperatures, and once again reaching all-time highs. Strong runs like these are ripe for recency bias, as it’s tempting for investors to only look at the most recent past when considering an investment. Bob and Andy break down why it’s all about diversification and asset allocation! Also, special guests Rick and Joyce sit down with Andy to share their story about achieving retirement.

Andy continues his series of sitting down with friends who have recently retired, sharing how they navigated their journey and what they’ve learned along the way. These conversations fit right in with the many questions, calls and emails this week: from the impact supplemental income could have on Social Security benefits, to the idea of using retirement savings to help pay for long-term health care. Plus, Bill Tracy is in-studio to shed more light on recent changes to client portfolios.

Investing Sense continues the series of interviewing recent retirees, sharing success stories and advice, both as celebration of reaching the goal and inspiration for investors who are not quite there. This week, Andy sits down with Jamie and Mary, who share a story of how they discovered it was time to retire, and the personal and financial freedom they now enjoy! Also, Bill Tracy is back to share his latest charts, this time with a focus on emerging markets.

Our Washington D.C. insider JT Taylor returns as our special guest this week, with his straight-forward, unbiased approach to the news and stories from Capitol Hill, including a second round of tax cuts and a look forward to the mid-term elections, while Andy breaks down the potential impact for investors and the stock market. Plus, a look at the rise of Apple, as the tech giant recently became the first $1 trillion company!

Facebook recently endured the largest single-day loss of market value by any company in the history of the market. It was quite a news story, and a great example of the many stresses involved in retirement planning. Plus, Bob and Andy dive into the ever-growing email inbox and loads of listener questions, with plenty more lessons to be learned from each other!

Maybe, just maybe, things aren’t as bad as they seem. Despite all the bad press in newspapers, radio, cable news, and the internet, the stock market continues to hold near its all-time highs. Bob and Andy explore the effect this discrepancy can have on investors’ psychology. Plus, our resident Washington D.C. insider JT Taylor is back again with plenty to talk about, including a possible under-looked risk posed by the trade wars.

The temperature isn’t the only thing rising this summer. So are stocks! Despite perceived fears over a trade war with China and the crazy political climate in the U.S., as Andy explains, the stock market just keeps pushing higher. Friends Bill Tracy and Don Luskin join the guys this week for deep discussions on these stories and other trends unfolding across the markets and economy. Plus, Andy helps a caller with a question about finding her right Social Security claiming strategy.

Amazon is probably the grand-daddy of disruptors, and they continue to do so in the healthcare sector with their recent acquisition of Pill Pack. Bob and Andy discuss how this could affect both small-cap AND health care, two big themes on the show this year. Also, Olympian and author Alex Allred joins the show to talk about taking care of aging parents. Plus, is elderly identity theft a new public health crisis, and what can we do about it?

Bob is feeling a little melancholy over the news of GE getting kicked out of the Dow Jones Industrials. After all, the stock has been one of the Dow 30 for over 100 years, and represents more old-school, industrial American business. However, there are plenty of new-school, emerging sectors that are leading the economy forward. Plus, as we’ve reached the mid-way point of the year, Andy breaks down the second-quarter and year-to-date market performance…with charts!

Bob and Andy tackle email and caller questions, covering topics from the complex ways to take pensions, whether or not to move money from investments to help with home improvements or paying off debt, to a portfolio review for a 100-year-old mother-in-law. Plus, a conversation with writer and Social Security claiming strategy expert Mary Beth Franklin, who offers important insights and advice to help maximize your benefits.

Investing Sense celebrated our 300th show a few weeks ago, and over the years, so many listeners and callers asked: ”How can I get started saving for retirement?” Andy’s most common answer: “Max out your 401(k)!” But there are some common, costly mistakes that many Americans are making and could result in leaving $10,000’s on the table! The guys reveal an easy step to take in making sure YOU aren’t making these same mistakes.

Happy Father’s Day weekend! The amount of wealth generated in this country keeps growing to record highs, from returns on stocks and bonds, to rising home values, to the job market… but statistics show that tens of millions of Americans are still missing out on this amazing opportunity. Bob and Andy dig into the reasons why from an historical perspective. Plus, more from Don Luskin and JT Taylor, along with the weekly visit and charts from Bill Tracy.

The show rolls on into summer and as the guys explain, with Q1 earnings season over, this is historically a quiet time of year. But could the market knee-jerk react to news, especially ahead of the up-coming mid-term elections? Bob and Andy turn to JT Taylor, our resident Capitol Hill insider, to help keep you on the right side of headlines. Plus, Bill Tracy is back to share his latest chart pack and insights from the Financial Engines Research Center.

A strange turn of events in the market this week after an abrupt shift in sentiment in the bond market. Bob and Andy, along with listeners, focus on the ups and downs in interest rates and discuss what it means for portfolios. Plus, with so many rules and regulations to follow, every retiree needs help when it comes to Social Security. Writer and claiming strategy expert Mary Beth Franklin joins the show to offer important insights and advice to help maximize your benefits!

Happy Memorial Day weekend from the entire Investing Sense pit crew! Today, the guys take a look at the market, and even though stocks are in bloom, there are very human reactions, such as loss aversion and recency bias, that could potentially derail your retirement plan. Also, our resident D.C. insider JT Taylor joins the show to discuss what you need to know about the upcoming mid-term elections, and Andy will explain what it means for the market.

Bob and Andy celebrate the men and women who serve because it’s Armed Forces Day in America! In the investing world, there’s much to celebrate, including positive news so far this earnings season and rebound in the stock market. Bill Tracy from the Financial Engines Research Center sits down to discuss Q1 earnings and their impact on the market. Also, with the help of Duke University professor Dan Ariely, the guys explore the concept of ”loss aversion” and how it can impact financial decisions.

Andy may have been on vacation, but that doesn’t mean the market took any days off! Back from breathtaking Scotland, Andy gives his take on recent market activity, the start of earnings season, and of course interest rates. Also, the guys dive deep into a well of topics with Don Luskin, CIO of Trend Macrolytics. Plus, are you avoiding the doctor simply to skip the bill? Be careful because this could end up costing even more.

As the calendar turns from winter to springtime, take a listen to some of the best segments from Investing Sense in what has been a wild 2018. From a very bullish start to the beginning of the year, to the recent rise in interest rates and stock market volatility, Andy and Bob have nailed the market action so far this year. Plus, hear some of the best listener conversations covering everything from target-date funds, company stock, and angry annuity salesmen!

It’s important for investors to avoid emotional reactions to political headlines, but it’s helpful to stay informed of what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what it means for YOU. To these ends, the guys welcome back Washington D.C. insider JT Taylor and Trend Macrolytics CIO Don Luskin, covering a wide range of topics from FANG stocks to the recent trade skirmish with China, and much more!

The goal of this show is to help hard-working Americans get to and through retirement. Due to the remarkable run of the market over the last 9 years, many investors are now ready to take the plunge into retirement, but may still need help taking that next step. Andy has an easy way for you to get started today! Plus, special guest Kyle Bingham joins the show to share how he helped his mother optimize her Social Security benefits.

Investing can be emotional, especially when there’s a non-stop flow of news stories that directly affect the markets. Andy re-assures listeners that there ARE positive trends around the globe, and you don’t need to ride this roller-coaster alone. Plus, Senior Investment Analyst Bill Tracy shares his charts and trends that the Research Center is following, including rising oil prices and sector performance.

If you’ve felt some queasiness due to all the market’s ups and downs, consider this show as medicine for the market’s ills. Financial Engines Senior Financial Analyst Bill Tracy is back to help the guys understand what is causing all this motion and decipher what the latest market trends and activity actually mean. Plus, Andy talks with author and New York Times critic Dwight Garner about his unusual relationship with money.

This year’s market feels different because last year’s was a “beauty.” But recently, the market has acted like a beast. Andy helps you place the recent volatility in historical perspective. Plus, analyst Bill Tracy is back to share insights from the Research Center, and producer Chris has a conversation with one of the most interesting and inspiring retired couples: The Senior Nomads!

In recent shows, Bob and Andy talked about the bright future of technology, but today, they dive even deeper into the massive opportunities of the new “digital” economy and what it means for American investors. Also, with tax deadlines fast approaching, our resident tax expert Ed Lyon talks about the changing tax landscape. Plus, investment analyst Bill Tracy joins the show to share his valuable insights on current market trends and whether recent volatility presents a buying opportunity.

As the market continues on the path to recovery, Bob and Andy revisit Bill Miller’s call for a “melt up” in stocks. Also, the guys tackle a number of calls and emails about target-date funds and Andy breaks down a recent controversial news story about these funds that are common in 401ks and other retirement plans. Plus, an insurance salesperson emails the show to confront Andy about his anti-annuity stance!

Bob and Andy learn a valuable lesson from Shark Tank: the experts are often wrong! Even though the show is strictly for entertainment, the lesson applies to news and financial media. But how can investors separate a personalized financial plan from the noise and bombardment from fear-mongering TV pundits, breaking news, and even advertising? Also, the guys look toward two important deadlines fast-approaching on the financial calendar: required minimum distributions (RMDs) and tax day.

In a society that tends to focus on the negative, Andy continues to carry the torch and point out positive trends, especially when it comes to technology and medical advances. This week, the guys blast off and look into the amazing advances in the new space race and other breakthrough technologies that are leading the way. Also, former Olympic athlete and author Alex Allred joins the show to talk about caring for aging parents.

Only two months in, and 2018 has already been a wild year for investors. From the stock market pullback and rising interest rates, to life expectancy and the risk of inflation, the guys help you make sense of what’s happening right now. Andy believes there is plenty of reason to be optimistic and offers an easy way for you to capitalize on America’s bright future.

The recent spike in market volatility has the financial media in a tizzy. But Andy has an almost controversial idea: the last few weeks in the market were actually NORMAL. Join the conversation as Bob and Andy dissect the reasons behind recent stock market activity, look at historical market corrections and dips, and explain why there is reason to see opportunity even when the media spreads fear.

Financial markets from stocks, to bonds and interest rates, to currencies are all seeing an increase in volatility over the last couple of weeks. Sometimes, in order to see where we are, we need to step back and look at where we came from. Bob and Andy offer some much-needed perspective for the recent market swings, along with practical steps and guidance for listeners after the wild ride this week.

A controversial statement from Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, might have some investors re-thinking cash holdings, but Andy reiterates why financial planning requires long-term thinking and is much more personal than a trendy soundbite. Also, listen and learn from conversations with two special guests: Trend Macrolytics Chief Investment Officer, Don Luskin, gives his view on the tax cuts and the economy, while Washington insider JT Taylor returns to chat about the current kerfuffle on Capitol Hill.

Some investors may worry the market is “too high,” others might let political views prevent executing an investment strategy, but Andy sees a lot of folks are finally looking to invest, citing the huge sums of money flowing into funds. He repeats how valuable it is to have a financial plan and fiduciary advisor by your side, along with a way to get started if you don’t know how. Plus, the Wall Street Journal recently blasted advisers and brokers for allegedly pushing high-priced products. You might be shocked by which brokers the Journal named in this story.

The S&P 500 is off to its best start in over 30 years, but the stock market isn’t the only market on the move. Now the bond market is breaking out. This begs the question: Are rising rates good or bad for stocks? Andy breaks down both sides of this question, which leads to an important realization about your portfolio and investment expectations. Plus, Olympic bobsledder Alex Allred joins the show to share her story of triumph, tragedy, and the healing power of humor.

Last year was historic for the stock market, not only because of the positive returns every month, but also because of the low volatility on which these returns were earned. The stock market is off to great start this year, but will the smooth ride continue? Plus, our live portfolio review asks the question: when is NOT taking enough risk actually a BIG risk? Also, if you’re already struggling with your resolutions, Andy gives his S.M.A.R.T. guidelines for setting goals in 2018 and beyond.

As the great Yogi Berra once said, “It’s hard to make predictions, especially about the future.” After a record-setting year in the stock market, many investors are wondering what’s next. Bob and Andy stress the importance of managing fear when it comes to financial planning. Plus, the guys reveal a free and easy way to make sure your portfolio is on the right track!

Happy New Year from Investing Sense! As we look forward to 2018, it’s always a good idea to look back and reminisce about where we’ve been. Listen along with Andy and Bob as they re-visit some of the best ideas, interviews, and insights of 2017!

Bob and Andy examine market returns through mid-December, and discuss reasons to be optimistic about the bull market heading into 2018. Also, fraud expert Kathy Bazoian Phelps joins the show to talk about Ponzi schemes and how you can protect your money. Plus, don’t miss Andy as he closes out the year with a special holiday poem…with a twist!

It’s the time of year when investors look forward to the promise of a new year, and look back at the returns of the past year. Bob and Andy take a listen to what some pundits in the financial media were predicting throughout 2017, and it turns out that fake news applies to more than just politics! But with all the reckless statements made by the media, what is an everyday investor supposed to do? Plus, Andy shares ways to avoid all-too-common holiday charity scams.

As Bob says, it’s been a very “interesting” year, but through it all, the stock market continues to perform. Yet, too many Americans are missing out on the record rally in stocks because they can’t tune out the noise coming from news and politics. Andy repeats that it’s never too late to get in the market and emphasizes the importance of looking forward, not back. Also, author and financial expert Deacon Hayes sits down to explain how you CAN retire early!

This could be a make-or-break week for tax reform, and it’s coming down to the wire. What happens to the stock market if reform passes? What if it fails? Bob and Andy dissect differing opinions and help you navigate this binary set-up that could have a big impact on your portfolio. Also, Dan Ariely, a leading expert on psychology and finance, joins the show to talk about how we “mis-think” about money.

As you are hopefully enjoying some days off full of food, football, and family time, enjoy a few fall highlights from Investing Sense, including real estate expert Greg Cooper’s in-studio interview and Diane Daniels’ tips on how to cut healthcare costs. Plus, re-visit what Tom Petty has to do with your estate plan!

If tax reform passes, should investors buy or sell? What if tax reform fails? Andy and Bob break down the answers to these critical questions going into year’s end. Plus, author Emily Guy Birken stops by to share advice on how to finally put an end to financial stress - with a story about Zombies? Also, get the scoop on new 401(k) contribution limits and Social Security benefit changes for 2018!

There’s so much going on right now in financial news, from tax reform, to changes at the Federal Reserve, and fluctuations in interest rates. Andy cuts through all the noise coming out of Washington and boils it down to the financial planning aspects investors should focus on right now. Also, Bob asks a literal “million-dollar” question: How long would $1 million last in retirement?

The stock market is at a crossroad between Wall Street and K Street as tax reform winds its way through Washington D.C. Resident D.C. insider JT Taylor breaks it down and hear Treasury Secretary Steve Mnunchin’s warning if tax reform fails. Long-time friend of the show, Diane Daniels, drops by to share tips on how to cut healthcare costs. Plus, a listener asks Andy: What should I do when my advisor won’t call me back?