Money Matters With Wes Moss

Wondering what today's financial headlines mean for your retirement plan? Wes Moss and Connor Miller break down the biggest economic stories, without the jargon, to help you chart a course on your quest to retire happier and sooner. In this episode: • Wes runs into Will Ferrell at the driving range—and shows why keeping your cool can matter in life and investing. • Trump reportedly slams Fed Chair Powell as a “numbskull”—what that might mean for interest rate policy in 2025. • New tariffs: How are they really impacting U.S. importers and everyday consumers? • Inflation ticks in a little above 2%, but is housing and rent data making the number look better than reality? • Why eggs are still more expensive in 2025—and what vending machine prices might say about persistent inflation. • Are we in a new bull market—or has it been running since October 2022? Get the latest market insights. • AI data centers are fueling a boom in natural gas deals across the Southeast—what it could mean for the energy sector. • Q1 2025 retirement account data reveals Americans are contributing more, even as account balances fluctuate. • First-time homebuyers face rising regret—why affordability and market stress seem to be weighing on new homeowners. • 50 years of Jaws: How a broken shark model and Steven Spielberg changed film forever and redefined the summer blockbuster.

Cut through market fear, witness inspiring stories, and tackle the challenging housing market with optimism and insight. Gain the clarity you need to seek financial freedom and retirement happiness. Wes and Jeff explore the week's essential themes, including: • The S&P 500, dividend stocks, and bonds posting gains that were higher than many had feared. After a sharp drop in April, markets rebounded strongly, marking the best May in 35 years. • Inflation hit a four-year low, calming fears and fueling market optimism. • A pop-up chicken stand that became Dave's Hot Chicken, is now valued near $1 billion. Is chicken catching up to beef in the world of fast food? • Long-term stock investing continues to demonstrate effectiveness: no 12-year period in the S&P 500 over the last 90 years has shown a loss. • Home buying is becoming more challenging for younger Americans. What has the new median first-time buyer age risen to? • U.S. housing transactions have plummeted. Is it due to high mortgage rates? Low mobility? Both? • Can a pension can be treated like a bond in a retirement allocation strategy? • A listener from Idaho highlights how millions of Americans with pensions may benefit from tailored planning beyond 401(k)s. • Jeff and Wes wrap with favorite burger spots—and the effect that Sunday closures seem to have on Chick-fil-A.

Wes and Jeff dive into the major economic events shaping the first half of the year. They offer insights on everything from labor markets and inflation to the rise of AI and takeout culture, then break down complex financial news into actionable analysis to help plan for a happier retirement. Highlights include: • Focusing on financial education by cutting through jargon and empowering listeners to make effective retirement and investment decisions

Wes and Connor deliver timely insights on U.S. debt, tax reform, interest rates, and practical strategies for family life and financial planning. From economic breakdowns to a creative summer challenge for kids, this episode blends national headlines with personal empowerment, including: • Honor and Reflect: As Memorial Day passes, remember the brave service members who gave their lives for our country • Assess the Moody's Downgrade: Understand the implications of the latest U.S. debt downgrade and why it matters for your investments. • Track Interest Rates: Learn how rising interest rates are shaping the market and impacting U.S. debt payments. • Unpack the New Tax Bill: Dive into the proposed tax reforms and how they could affect deficits and economic growth. • Explore Economic Math: Review real government revenue vs. spending figures and why the math might give room for hope. • Leverage Hauser's Law: Discover why federal tax revenues have been shown to stay consistent as a percentage of GDP, regardless of tax rates. • Promote Economic Growth: Realize that boosting GDP, not tax hikes, may be the most effective way to reduce deficits. • Launch a Summer Challenge: Get inspired by Wes's 30-day happy retiree family summer challenge to keep kids engaged, productive, and learning life skills. • Design Financial Plans: Evaluate your own retirement options and financial plans. • Compare Global Productivity: Learn why U.S. tech leads the world—and why Europe may be falling behind in innovation and private funding due to its legacy-based corporate structure.

Wes Moss and Conner Miller provide historical context and perspective on the latest financial news, including: • The markets staged a dramatic V-shaped recovery following tariff fears. Investors, take note: Volatility can reverse quickly. Once you've chosen a solid strategy, it's often more productive to stay the course rather than letting fear drive decisions. • The S&P 500 dropped nearly 20% in April but rebounded in just six weeks. Panic rarely helps—history shows that recoveries can be swift and sharp. • Tariffs triggered the downturn, but remember: trade makes up a smaller portion of the U.S. economy than one might assume. Try not to overreact to short-term headlines that struggle to reflect long-term fundamentals. • Despite massive sell-offs, 97% of Vanguard investors made no trades. Their commitment to a long-term plan possibly helped them avoid reactionary moves in turbulent markets. • Institutional investors—not individuals—were the primary sellers. Over $27 billion exited U.S. equities in a week, but 72% of that came from institutions, not retail investors. Individual discipline can sometimes work as an effective edge. • Wes's "school of fish" analogy illustrates market chaos. A few hedge funds dart, and the entire market reacts. Rather than being the panicked fish, it can often be productive to swim steadily with long-term conviction. • “30 for 30” rule confirmed again: Historically, 30% of gains occur in the first 30 days after a decline. This recovery was even faster—don't miss out by being on the sidelines. • Happy retirees often win with the help of certain principles, such as: a. Have a clear plan with long-term goals. b. Diversify across asset classes. c. Maintain balance with “dry powder” (safe assets) to ride out volatility. • Bonds are back. With the 10-year U.S. Treasury yielding 4.5%, fixed income might become a meaningful part of your portfolio. Rebalance thoughtfully. • Tariffs are likely here to stay. Even with deals and pauses, a 10% baseline tariff remains in place. Prepare your portfolio for a world where moderate tariffs are the norm. • Real-world example: How tariffs affect prices. A hypothetical 25% tariff on Mexican avocados could raise a Chipotle bowl price by 40 cents. The message: some impact, but not catastrophic. And don't forget that guacamole is delicious. • Inflation remains under control for now. The future is uncertain, but April CPI rose only 2.3% year-over-year, the lowest since early 2021. Gas, groceries, eggs, used cars, and airfare all declined. Stay grounded in the data. • Recession odds have been lowered by Wall Street economists. That's helping push interest rates up, but also reflects growing optimism. Adjust your expectations accordingly. • Global bond markets exceed $100 trillion, more than twice the size of U.S. equities. Understand your fixed income options—it's not just about stocks. • Final takeaway: Individual investors often win by thinking long-term. If you've got 5, 10, or 30 years before needing your money, you've got time on your side. It can be productive to stick with your strategy and stay invested.

Jeff Lloyd joins Wes to tackle the week's critical issues, such as: • Celebrate Mother's Day with purpose! From heartfelt shout-outs to family meal plans, honoring Mom is always a worthwhile investment. • Tariffs hit home—literally! Wes's son tackled the “Guac Tax” in a school project on avocado tariffs. Learn how trade policies might hit your wallet. • Warren Buffett steps down—but his wisdom endures. Find out to whom he passed the torch and reflect on 60+ years of effective investing. • Buffett vs. S&P: the numbers tell the story. Berkshire Hathaway's 5.5 million% cumulative return (yes, million!) vs. the S&P 500's 39,000%—a masterclass in compounding and consistency. • Buffett's love for cash isn't fear—it's strategy. Berkshire's $300 billion in cash isn't panic—it's patience. A reminder: having dry powder lets you seize opportunity quickly. • Examine the most enduring lessons from Warren Buffett. • The Fed holds steady—why that's a bold move. Does the Fed's decision to “actively do nothing” show confidence in a stable economy? • AI can't replace good judgment. Buffett trusts a seasoned colleague over the world's most advanced AI—experience and human intuition still matter. • Student loan defaults vs. $70K high school offers?! The High School Job Draft is real: employers are recruiting skilled trades students right out of high school with competitive starting offers. Why take on $100K in student debt when you can go pro as a welder? Plus, are those jobs harder for AI to replace? • Retirement isn't the end—it's a pivot point. Whether you love your job or are ready to walk away, define retirement on your terms. Find purpose. Enjoy the ride. Create your next chapter.

Jeff Lloyd joins Wes to explore the latest news, compelling financial insights, and human psychology: • Consider the Mappiness Project—What truly brings you joy? Are you building a life that includes high-ranking endeavors? • Rediscover Your Core Pursuits—Jeff recounts his lifelong love for Pearl Jam concerts and music tourism, including a trip with Wes to see Chris Stapleton. What passions keep you energized? • Review 2025 Market Performance So Far—Are your investments tracking with the broader market's progress? • Break Down Sector Trends—Explore what's working and what's not in today's market. Which industries are thriving, and where should you be cautious? • Look back on Microsoft's 50-Year Journey—From a garage startup to a trillion-dollar titan—Wes and Jeff highlight lessons investors can learn from Microsoft's evolution. • Think ‘Companies, Not Stocks'—Are you investing in businesses with real value or just chasing ticker symbols? A powerful mindset shift for long-term wealth building. • Evaluate The 5 P's of Financial Planning—Planning, Portfolio, Protection, Passing It On, and Payments. • Reimagine Your Time Horizon—What if your retirement horizon is only 20 years instead of 35? • Learn the Power of Staying Invested—An investment in the S&P 500 in 1975 would be worth what today? Can you commit to the long game? • Avoid the Perfection Trap—You don't need to pick the next Microsoft. Wes reminds us: Participation in the market typically beats perfection.

Connor joins Wes to analyze essential current events: • Connor asks, "Are We Having Fun Yet?" with the constant scary headlines and market volatility from tariff repercussions. • Stress from the ongoing uncertainty in trade talks with China. • Understanding the VIX (fear index) and its historical spikes. • The administration's intermittent public criticism and praise for Jerome Powell and the Fed, and how it's affecting markets. • Bond market turbulence, duration risk, and the relative perceived safety of gold. • The crucial role asset allocation plays in investment portfolios. • When it comes to income investing, is it true that yield is destiny? Finally, Wes tells the story of real-life happy retirees to illustrate that even when starting small, folks can utilize aggressive savings, frugal living, and multiple income streams to achieve financial freedom and structure a post-retirement life full of core pursuits and new purpose. Call 800-805-6301 to leave a voicemail or contact us at https://www.yourwealth.com/contact/schedule-appointment/ for a chance to have your question featured in an upcoming episode.

Analyze how inflation may prevent nearly half of Americans from dying Easter eggs and why consumer sentiment may be out of alignment with the reality on the ground. Discover how the most popular benchmark for measuring market performance may not be the most efficient one. Zoom out to examine historical trends and gain perspective on where your portfolio stands despite the current tariff uncertainty. Gather the latest on Fed Chair Jerome Powell's interest rate outlook, as well as his ability to remain in the job despite pressure from the current administration. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd guide you through these essential topics and more.

Witness market volatility and the economic seesaw! Navigate the complexities of trade negotiations and their widespread impact. Untangle the inverse relationship between bond prices and interest rates. See how tariffs can affect prices and fuel uncertainty. Harness the power of balance and diversification to help fortify your investments. Decipher the VIX (fear index) and its historical implications for market returns. Contemplate the lessons from the 2020 market crash and recovery. Analyze the details of ongoing global trade negotiations and potential outcomes. Note the influence of consumer and business confidence amidst tariff changes. Marvel at the unchanging prices of egg salad sandwiches at the Masters Tournament and the hot dog/soda combo at Costco. Tune in to the Money Matters Podcast, hosted by Wes Moss, Jeff Lloyd, and Connor Miller, to explore securing your financial future.

Navigate the market's recent swings, sparked by major tariff announcements and a significant stock sell-off. Examine the impact of balanced portfolios, learn why bonds are back in action, and explore how diversification might help you minimize losses during turbulent times. Tariffs may create higher prices for consumers and small businesses, but could the new revenue pave the way for substantial tax cuts for both corporations and individuals? Unpack the potential silver lining in these challenging times. Understand how the VIX (volatility index) behaves during major market shifts and why, historically, market performance tends to improve after sharp increases in volatility. Despite the market ups and downs, Wes, Jeff, and Connor emphasize why staying balanced and diversified can be critical to your long-term investment strategy. Tune in for actionable strategies and work toward securing happiness in your financial future.

Dive into an eye-opening discussion about confidently navigating the financial landscape. Unpack the latest market trends, tackle productive investment strategies, and uncover a potential key to building lasting wealth. Get insights on making your money work harder, optimizing your retirement plan, and sidestepping common financial pitfalls. Whether planning your next big financial move or just trying to keep up with economic shifts, this episode delivers knowledge to help you take control. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd turn complex financial topics into actionable steps for your financial future.

Turbulence in the markets? Tariffs in the headlines? Don't let uncertainty derail your financial future. Dive into a data-driven look at market corrections, the Fed's stance on interest rates, and the incredible force of the American consumer. Discover why history has favored long-term investors, how the army of American productivity often powers through volatility, and why staying the course is potentially the key to financial success. Examine inflation, employment, and the impact of rising tariffs—without confusing jargon. Tune in for productive analysis, practical strategies, and a reminder that efficient investors don't panic—they plan. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd break it all down on this episode of Money Matters.

Navigate market uncertainty with confidence. Break down the latest correction, why investors may be shifting assets, and whether history suggests recovery or deeper trouble. Uncover the real impact of inflation, tariffs, and economic policy shifts while understanding why the current administration seems to be skipping short-term stimulus for long-term structural change. Analyze how bear markets develop, how often they recover, and what history teaches about timing your next move. Wes and Connor explore portfolio diversification, dry powder strategies, and productive investing techniques to help protect wealth and seize opportunities. Rather than panic, learn what it means to capitalize on volatility, optimize investments, and stay ahead.

Can smart real estate investing and the FIRE movement transform your financial future? Uncover the powerful "live-in flip" strategy that sometimes allows homeowners to renovate, sell, and pocket massive tax-free profits—all while living in the home. Learn how to leverage tax laws legally, navigate real estate markets, and maximize returns without overpaying Uncle Sam. Plus, explore the path to financial independence, the secrets some have used to reach FIRE in just 10 years, and how to avoid the "middle-class trap" that prevents many folks from achieving significant wealth. Whether you're looking to invest in property, retire early, or simply take control of your finances, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in to hear Mindy Jensen, co-host of The BiggerPockets Money Podcast, share her winning strategies with Wes.

Discover how to maximize your Roth IRA, balance pension income, and use the 4% rule of thumb to determine if you're truly ready to retire. Learn why asset allocation is critical, when to consider shifting from stocks to bonds, and whether cash can possibly replace bonds in a portfolio. Tackle real-world scenarios like handling inherited trusts, making tax-efficient withdrawals, and building a financial team to navigate a major windfall. Examine strategies to seek to protect investments, manage risk, and make smart decisions about long-term care. By answering listener questions and offering practical insights, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase explore the financial clarity you need to retire sooner and smarter.

Cut through the media noise. Debunk Robert Kiyosaki's latest market crash warning. Ease financial and geopolitical anxiety with facts: GDP is growing over 2%, inflation is cooling, and the labor market has snapped back to a healthy balance—challenge fear-driven narratives by focusing on fundamentals. Could Walmart's earnings stumble be a hiccup rather than a harbinger? Isn't Amazon's quarterly revenue record the bigger story? With FactSet forecasting healthy S&P 500 earnings growth for 2025, is it time to lean in rather than sit out? Examine Columbia Threadneedle's study to see why today's 4.5% to 5% bond yields make them a potentially productive strategy because they sometimes sidestep cash drag to secure stable returns. Want a retirement game plan? Wes and Jeff walk listeners through the “Fill the Gap” strategy: know your income shortfall, multiply by 25, and hopefully retire with confidence. Then, unpack the “Doge Dividend” proposal, a concept floated by the Trump administration suggesting taxpayer rebates tied to deficit reductions. Would one-time stimulus checks be more or less productive than debt rollback? Listen to find out more, and if you're heading to the Waffle House, brace for that new 50-cent egg surcharge.

Dive into the latest financial headlines, examine the impact of modern work-from-home trends, and explore the three most compelling economic charts of the moment. Analyze inflation as it edges up around 3%, raising questions about the Federal Reserve's next move. Debate revaluation's potential role in helping shrink the deficit by looking at how the U.S. Treasury's gold reserves, still marked at outdated 1970s prices, would be worth over $750 billion at today's value. Unpack the soaring manufacturing expectations that have come along with a massive spike in projected industrial activity. Dissect the latest attempt for government downsizing as roughly 75,000 federal workers have already accepted buyouts. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd help connect the dots and decode what this all means for the economy, the markets, and the financial future of retirees and beyond.

Dive into the latest economic trends and retirement strategies, breaking down essential financial topics. Can investing during market highs yield strong returns and counter the typical "buy low, sell high" advice? Explore the psychology of lump sum vs. pension decisions for federal employees, and examine a balanced investment approach in a bond market with higher interest rates. Learn the nuances of fixed-income investments, the benefits of locking in higher rates, and how bonds typically outperform cash in the long run. Wes Moss and Connor Miller cover all of this, plus some fun Super Bowl stats for happy retirees and beyond.

The resiliency of U.S. economics, steady consumer spending across all income levels, underestimated impacts of a gig economy, and the surprising durability of GDP growth are all part of today's essential discussion. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd examine which factors suggest productivity might be undercounted and liken AI to the space race, where any type of participation drives long-term innovation. Listen to discover how these elements could shape the economic landscape for retirees and beyond.

On this week's Money Matters, Wes Moss and co-host Jeff Lloyd break down the biggest financial stories shaping 2025. From what the Fed's next move on interest rates means for your wallet to how tariffs and inflation are impacting markets. Wes also shares big news about Social Security changes that could give retirees with pensions a much-needed boost. Plus, they dive into bonds, Bitcoin, and what really makes an asset worth investing in.

Wes Moss and Clark.com's Christa DiBiase team up to highlight the top 10 financial trends investors should watch in 2025, including economic resilience, consumer spending strength, and rising productivity. In the second hour, Wes partners with co-host Jeff Lloyd to explore market momentum, the importance of dividends, and savvy retirement strategies. The episode concludes with an inspiring story of a happy retiree using careful financial planning to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime College Football Playoff experience.

On today's episode of Money Matters, Wes dives into the top ten trends that he anticipates will define 2025 for investors, starting with resilience in the markets and economy, the dominance of the consumer, and a surge in productivity fueled by emerging technologies like AI. Producer and co-host Jeff Lloyd analyzes what these trends mean for investors, covering everything from the bull market's potential, dividend contributions, and tariff impacts to Washington's influence on market stability.

Money Matters co-host and producer Jeff Lloyd joins Wes in the studio. Wes instills the top 10 happy retiree lessons he's learned from his guests while hosting the Retire Sooner podcast.

Whether you're 25 or nearing retirement age, you'll learn something new about how to maximize social security and plan for the future in today's show. Wes introduces you to Mary Beth Franklin, one of the country's leading specialists on social security and Medicare and a popular guest on Wes's Retire Sooner podcast. In this conversation, Mary Beth answers questions such as, why do you think Social Security has become so confusing and difficult for so many people to make sense of as they get ready to retire? What are some actionable steps to take right now to prepare for or maximize their social security? And what you need to know when it comes to spouses and social security.

During this episode, Wes shares details from his new book, What The Happiest Retirees Know: 10 Habits for a Healthy, Secure, and Joyful Life. He also explains how he collected his research and studies for the book, why he studies happy and unhappy retirees, and what we can learn from happy retirees. He gives additional insights into the habits of the happiest retirees, how to discover your core pursuits, and shares a personal story about a friend's emotional struggle without work.

On today's episode of Money Matters, Wes is joined by co-host and producer Jeff Lloyd. Wes exalts his alma mater, the University of North Carolina, for hiring Bill Belichick. That leads them to discuss the rising salaries of college coaches and the rapid growth of NIL money for athletes. Next, they review the latest market trends, including a new all-time high for the NASDAQ. They delve into the most recent inflation update, including its specific consequences, and search for ways to hedge the gap between wage growth and rising costs. Will the Fed continue to cut interest rates?

Producer and Co-host Jeff Lloyd joins Wes in the studio on today's episode. They dig into smart financial habits such as avoiding impulsive decisions and staying disciplined in investing. They examine the importance of resisting unnecessary purchases, practicing patience with investments, and avoiding the trap of "FOMO Freddy"—chasing past winners in the market. They discuss the concern about tariffs, the tense situations in France and South Korea, Cyber Monday, and even Jim Cramer's comical quote about pizza. Finally, they point out the historical productivity of long-term planning, diversification, and focusing on consistent strategies to achieve sustainable growth rather than reacting to short-term trends or emotional pressures.

In today's episode of Money Matters, Wes is joined by Edd and Cynthia Staton. Their retirement plans were disrupted by the 2008 Financial Crisis, leading them to create a Plan B. In 2010, they moved to Cuenca, Ecuador, where they enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. Their experience reflects a broader trend: the number of retirees receiving Social Security outside the U.S. surged 40% between 2007 and 2017. Now seen as experts in expat retirement, the Statons have authored best-selling books, featured in major media, and run an online program called Retirement Reimagined!

Wes is joined in the studio by co-host and Producer Jeff Lloyd on today's episode of Money Matters. Compiling a list of what the Retire Sooner Team is thankful for this year, they mention the myriad of S&P 500 all-time highs. Then, they show gratitude for a less top-heavy market, as equity earnings have spread beyond the Magnificent Seven into small- and mid-cap stocks. They reflect on anxiety relief coming on the heels of a tense election. They identify the positive effects of lower inflation, less volatility, and a healthy unemployment rate and are hopeful for an extended trend toward mortgage-friendly interest rates. Finally, they give thanks for the collective Army of American productivity and the way it drives not only growth, innovation, and net income but also significant dividends that can make an impact on protecting purchasing power over time and in retirement.

Wes is joined today by co-host, producer, and new Uncle Jeff Lloyd. They toss out the pumpkins, string up the holiday lights, and examine the plethora of recent market highs. For perspective, they chart market returns dating back to William McKinley in 1896. Next, they dig into the housing market and discover a concerning revelation. But, they point out that some positive shifts may be on the horizon. Though lowering interest rates has yet to lead to the beneficial effects some had hoped for, a new administration sometimes brings different priorities. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Treasury is preparing to unleash roughly $700 billion from its general account (TGA) into the economy. This cash injection could possibly result in lower treasury bond yields, which could potentially help to lower mortgage rates. Finally, Wes describes the details of a retirement life map a happy retiree recently showed him and how her willingness to daydream and plan with discipline helped her retire without regrets. 

On today's episode of Money Matters, Wes welcomes Connor Miller, Capital Investment Advisor's Chief Investment Officer, to join him for financial analysis about the recent presidential election. They point to inflation as a probable motivation for a large swath of voters looking to make a change. They examine initial market reactions, including a “certainty pop,” with US stocks adding $1.62 trillion the following day. They analyze what this election might mean for the future of interest rates, debts, deficits, and investing. They zoom in on specific market sectors that could be significantly impacted and how it all might affect retirees planning for their future.

Co-host and Producer Jeff Lloyd joins Wes on today's episode of Money Matters to deliberate election indicators, market predictions, advances in stem cell research, and the impact of daylight savings and inflation on everyday life. They assess predictive tools like S&P 500 performance, the Misery Index, and the rising popularity of betting markets. They review the historical resilience of the U.S. stock market, noting how changing political environments don't necessarily impact long-term market growth. Finally, they explain that time in the market typically generates more productive results than attempting to time the market.

Money Matters Co-host and Producer Jeff Lloyd joins Wes on today's show. They jump into the economics of Halloween spending vs. holiday spending. They review the misery index and where it currently stands. They discuss the housing log jam, existing home sales, and how interest rates contribute to those outcomes. They dig into the unemployment rate and what it means for job-seekers and employers. They reflect on the hot stock market finally having some down days. They examine how different election outcomes have influenced the market. Finally, they delve into a Harvard Business Review article about a decade-long retiree study.

Connor Miller, Chief Investment Officer for Capital Investment Advisors, joins Wes to review the week's essential financial headlines. They analyze the Dow ending the session above 43,000 for the first time, how US Retail Sales seem to imply that the US Consumer is strong, the most recent bank earnings analysis, and new 401(k) limits. Finally, they delve into the pros and cons of “private equity.”

Wes is joined in the studio by Connor Miller, Chief Investment Officer for Capital Investment Advisors. They review the underperforming jobs report. They deliberate the cumulative effect of inflation and how that might usher in negative vibes despite encouraging CPI numbers. They explore the Wall Street Journal's article about the global decline in birth rates and its potential to bring significant economic, social, and geopolitical consequences. But, they remind listeners that, fortunately, the U.S. is still seeing population growth, partially from immigration, and will likely continue to for the foreseeable future. Finally, they dig deep into Wes's five reasons for being bullish about the United States.

Investment advisor and regular co-host Jeff Lloyd joins Wes on today's episode of Money Matters. They delve into the week's latest news, including scary headlines and California banishing Froot Loops from school cafeterias. They dig into Q3 and explore housing challenges, such as inventory and mortgage rates. They inspect the “peak 65” stat of the week, which shows a record number of baby boomers reaching retirement age. And finally, with less than a month until the presidential election, they consider the Magnificent Seven swing states and reveal how S&P 500 performance has historically affected the outcome.

In this episode of "Money Matters," hosts Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd dive deep into the impact of the recent Federal Reserve rate cut on various asset classes, including stocks, bonds, and cash. Amid discussions on the returns in the bond market, Wes and Jeff also explore historical trends, showing how the S&P 500 often rises after Fed rate cuts, especially when the market is near all-time highs. Delving into market psychology, they provide insights into investing during periods of frequent new highs and touch upon the post-presidential election market performance, enhanced by key historical data and trends. Wrapping up with a nostalgic look at cultural moments and the unique recent weather in Atlanta, this episode offers a comprehensive overview for investors navigating today's dynamic financial landscape.

Wes is joined by CIA's Chief Investment Officer Connor Miller on today's episode of Money Matters. They discuss the significant news about the Fed cutting interest rates. They probe a study showing that 41% of Americans report peak stress conditions, though the misery index fell slightly from last year. They dive into a list of which university degrees statistically lead to higher earnings for their graduates. They examine a Wall Street Journal article about millionaires who decided to rent instead of buying their homes. They explore the public's overall sentiment for the government. Finally, Connor shows Wes which election results have historically yielded the best market returns. Is it Republican or Democrat? The answer might surprise you.

Wes is joined by Money Matters Producer Jeff Lloyd. They delve into current events affecting Americans—U.S. inflation softening as the Federal Reserve prepares to cut interest rates, the latest mortgage figures, and how election uncertainty may be influencing the stock market. Then, they use the new iPhone 16 announcement to examine Apple's statistics. Finally, they dig into a Barron's article discussing the potential for a 5% retirement withdrawal rate.

Americans have faced immense financial challenges in the past two-plus decades. The Dotcom Bubble sent stock prices down nearly 50% between 2000 and 2002, the Great Recession and Housing Crisis of 2007-2009 cratered stocks more than 55%, and theCOVID-19 Pandemic and shutdowns sent stocks tumbling 30% in a month's span and led to massive inflation and high interest rates thereafter. In today's episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes admits that a sensible retirement strategy while accounting for unknown future world events can feel overwhelming. However, he believes utilizing the foundational principles of the Retire Sooner community can help increase your probability of achieving the financial freedom that many happy retirees enjoy.

On today's episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes is joined by producer Jeff Lloyd. They celebrate the Army of American Productivity and workers everywhere in honor of Labor Day. They look toward Q4 by summarizing Nvidia's recent $50 billion stock buyback, reviewing the handful of trillion-dollar companies, and inspecting a story about pent-up demand for sausage. They mention Jerome Powell's recent speech and then do a deep dive on The Wall Street Journal's negative article about the 60/40 portfolio and 4% Rule.

Wes is joined by Capital Investment Advisor's Chief Investment Officer, Connor Miller, on today's episode. They explore The Federal Reserve's latest actions, including Chair Jerome Powell's speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium. They probe the timing of inflation vs. Georgia Bulldog championships. They pore over housing data, including a significant boost in supply and how high mortgage rates have kept people in their homes. They delve into a recent and sizable job number revision from the Bureau of Labor Management. They discuss the overall work-from-home trend and how it looks now in 2024. They talk about the difference between re-election and open-election years and their effects on the stock market. They touch on the importance of core pursuits for happy retirees, and Wes asks Connor what his are. They stress how participation (time in the market) is much more crucial than trying to time the market perfectly. Finally, Wes shares the news about the new Happy Retiree Planner.

Wes is joined by Capital Investment Advisors Wealth Management Analyst Jeff Lloyd on today's episode of Money Matters. They analyze the latest financial headlines to contextualize the recent global market sell-off. Was it all about economic data or a consequence of the so-called “Carry Trade?” Next, they scrutinize the recent attention paid to the “Death Tax” and speculate about the Fed's probability of lowering interest rates at its September meeting. Finally, they delve into market history to see what matters more: participation or perfection.

On today's episode of the Money Matters Podcast, Wes is joined by Capital Investment Advisors Wealth Management Analyst Jeff Lloyd. They dig into the recent market crash, view it from a historical perspective, and examine productive ways investors can handle typical market sell-offs in their retirement planning process. They evaluate the recent rise in unemployment numbers and whether that might mean the Federal Reserve is behind the curve on cutting interest rates. Finally, with this in mind, they hypothesize what an interest rate drop could mean for America's housing challenges.

In this episode of Money Matters, hosts Wes Moss and Connor Miller discuss the recent broadening out of the stock market, with smaller companies and a wider range of sectors outperforming the previously dominant large tech companies. Wes and Connor also touch on a variety of other topics, such as the ongoing Olympics and the prizes that medalists are awarded by their home country. Wes and Connor have pulled research on how political events impact market performance over time for investors. They conclude by reiterating the foundational principles of investing.

Capital Investment Advisors' Wealth Analyst Jeff Lloyd joins Wes in the studio. Wes instills the top 10 happy retiree lessons he's learned from his guests while hosting the Retire Sooner podcast.

Wes is joined today by Jeff Lloyd, Wealth Management Analyst for Capital Investment Advisors, for a special show on the road in Michigan! They discuss reversion to the mean and then cover the four main types of 401(k) investor allocation “profiles.” Wes then examines confirmation and recency bias and how rebalancing might provide a change. Then, they do a deep dive into the Russell 2000 Index, exploring companies and comparing market caps to those on the S&P 500. Finally, they pull back the curtain on a brand new Taco Bell retirement community opening in San Diego, CA.

Capital Investment Advisors Wealth Management Analyst Jeff Lloyd joins Wes on today's show to wade through the financial issues affecting people in today's environment. First, they zoom in on the summer's booming travel industry, including eye-opening Disney statistics. Then they take a bite of some tasty apple data, pour over today's inflation numbers vs. the past two years, and analyze how disinflation and lower overall inflation might mean the Fed is one step closer to lowering rates. Finally, they remind listeners that no matter where the market sits, history demonstrates perfection attempts are typically riskier than allowing patience and participation to produce results.

In today's episode, Wes delves into the financial aspects of retirement, focusing on the 4% rule formulated by William Bengen. This rule suggests that retirees who withdraw 4% of their portfolio in the first year and adjust for inflation annually can have a sustainable retirement, provided their portfolio has a 50-75% stock allocation. Wes explores the feasibility of a higher withdrawal rate, specifically 6%, by weighing the pros and cons and estimating success probabilities, aiming to help listeners maximize spending without exhausting their savings. Later, Dr. Dawn Carr, a renowned sociologist and gerontologist, shares insights on maintaining youthfulness in old age. She emphasizes practical solutions for enhancing social health and cognitive complexity in daily activities. Dr. Carr's advice includes having close friends, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, and ensuring adequate sleep to prevent cognitive decline. Her approach offers actionable steps to enjoy the aging process and maintain vitality.    

In the first half of this episode of Money Matters, host Wes Moss is joined by Edd and Cynthia Staton. Their retirement plans were disrupted by the 2008 Financial Crisis, leading them to create a Plan B. In 2010, they moved to Cuenca, Ecuador, where they enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. Their experience reflects a broader trend: the number of retirees receiving Social Security outside the U.S. surged 40% between 2007 and 2017. Now seen as experts in expat retirement, the Statons have authored best-selling books, featured in major media, and run an online program called Retirement Reimagined! And later, a National Institute on Retirement Security report shows 79% of Americans believe there is a retirement crisis, with over half concerned about achieving financial security. On a recent episode, Wes illustrates how self-discipline, savings, and time can help overcome retirement challenges, suggesting that happiness and financial freedom may be more attainable than many think.