Money Talk: The Annex Wealth Management Show - Naples

In this Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen dig into whether the latest Fed minutes really put another rate hike back on the table as markets deal with rising tension with Iran and renewed focus on Japan's major investment commitments in the United States. They discuss the latest data, including lower jobless claims, a wider trade deficit, and signs that manufacturing may be finding new momentum, along with what things could mean for companies such as Molson Coors and Harley Davidson. Plus, there's a growing turf battle between Amazon and Walmart and what it could mean for consumers and investors, along with other segments covering smart tax moves and the strategies of gifting money.

In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down Japan's political shake‑up, where a landslide win has opened the door to food‑tax cuts and even possible changes to the country's post‑war constitution. We look at America's growing economic pressures, from a worsening federal deficit and tariffs hitting consumers to a housing market still millions of homes short. And we wrap with what the latest data and company reports tell us about the real economy, as consumers pull back, mortgage stress rises, and businesses split between tech‑driven strength and tariff‑driven strain.  Plus, segments on AI investing for high-net worth portfolios and tax strategies for 2025's deadline.

It was a whirlwind week in politics and economics, from shutdown-driven policies and delayed labor data to a surprise rebound in U.S. manufacturing. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack Trump-era initiatives including a massive minerals stockpile, a proposed pathway-to-ownership housing program, and a sweeping trade deal with India tied to geopolitics and energy in our Week in Review. Plus, we cover tensions with Iran, changes at the Fed, and what all of this means for markets, manufacturers, and workers.  Also, a segment on companies offering "equity compensation".

In this Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack the latest tariff threats from President Trump, a sliding U.S. dollar, and a historic trade deal between the European Union and India. They also dig into the Fed's decision to hold rates steady and what mixed economic signals mean for markets. Plus, a look at slowing job growth, sinking consumer confidence, record‑slow population growth, and segments on rich retirees and planning for living into your 90s.

Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen dive into the political developments dominating the week, with Davos setting the tone. We unpack President Trump's remarks and proposals from tariffs and Greenland to housing, credit cards, crypto, and global markets in our Week in Review.  As always, we touch on key international reactions and data points shaping the broader macro picture.  Also, segments on the new Trump Accounts and preparing for the 'Silver Tsunami'.

It was a wave of political and economic turbulence, from Trump's proposed 10% cap on credit‑card interest rates, to rising tensions between the White House and Fed Chair Jerome Powell with DOJ subpoenas. Inflation continued easing toward the Fed's target while consumers grew more cautious, but corporate America remained resilient with strong earnings expectations.  Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen discuss in our Week in Review.  Also, a segment on ACA subsidies and the effect on those under 65.

The Santa Rally was a no-show this year, but the January Effect is kicking in. Markets are also reacting to geopolitical moves: U.S. forces captured Venezuela's president Maduro, sparking oil-focused strategies and promises of billions in infrastructure investment despite challenges. Meanwhile, trade tensions simmer as tariff rulings and compliance shifts reshape import costs, with exemptions and agreements softening the blow for key sectors like semiconductors.  Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss in the Week in Review.  Also, segments on understanding Donor-Advised Funds and milestone ages for retirement.

China wrestled with deflation worries while U.S. markets powered through historic tariff hikes and plenty of drama. Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen unpack the biggest stories of the year, from gold and silver's surge to Bitcoin's stumble and the nonstop buzz around AI. Plus, what the 4% rule means for your retirement and smart strategies for navigating later life solo.

This week's show takes a look back at 2025 and noted how the markets have broadened heading into 2026. We explore decisions high net worth people face, as well as considerations when selling assets. One team interview explores “money guilt” – the uncomfortable feeling of second-guessing spending decisions. We also interview Chellee Siewert from Capture Sports Management, who helps athletes and entertainers find their “why.” Finally, we take a look at what you might consider as you enter retirement: what are your first steps?

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down distorted economic data and what it really means for the labor market as payroll trends shift in our Week in Review. Inflation may be taking a holiday, but consumer spending remains surprisingly resilient heading into the festive season. Plus, we look ahead to earnings season, where analysts expect double-digit growth for the S&P 500 and the ‘Magnificent 7' to keep leading the charge.”  Also, segments on the first meeting with a wealth manager and creating a "living legacy".

The Fed cut rates but signaled it's ready to hit pause for a while. In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down why their upbeat tone on productivity could make their job easier, what the board's mindset might be, and why market expectations for 2026 cuts are already taking shape. Plus, we discuss the confusion around balance sheet tweaks—spoiler: it's not QE, just a move to keep year-end funding calm. Also, segments on navigating financial conversations with family, and why 2026 might be a pivotal year for estate plans.

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack a week full of conflicting economic signals, from strong holiday spending to softer manufacturing data and surprising labor numbers in our Week in Review. They also take a closer look at tariff discussions, political currents heading into the mid-terms, stress points for retailers and small businesses, a standout moment in charitable giving.  Plus, listen for insights on equity compensation and the growing trend of solo aging. 

This week's Week in Review covers major political developments, including President Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing and the launch of the Genesis Mission, along with fresh data on growth, confidence, inflation, and business sentiment. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen also break down standout corporate stories, shifting consumer trends, and the key economic releases coming in the days ahead. Plus, segments on how to gift money and "Alignment" vs. "Accumulation" in retirement.

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack everything from tariff-driven grocery relief to the mixed signals shaping the economy as we head into the holidays. They'll sort out what's important now, and what could be coming next. We'll also look at how parents can create a clear plan to help their kids pay down student loans. And later, the smart end-of-year moves high-net-worth families should consider as 2026 approaches. 

Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen break down a jam-packed week of headlines in our Week in Review, from the shutdown delay and shifting tariffs to new housing ideas like portable mortgages. We'll look at what small businesses and big-name earnings are really telling us as we roll into the holidays, and later we'll uncover “equity compensation” and whether it's a smart way to get paid.

This week, we unpack the “K-shaped” economy everyone's talking about.  Who's moving up, who's sliding down, and what the latest data really says. From layoffs and earnings to tech volatility and political headlines, we break down the stories shaping markets and money right now in our "Week in Review" with Wealth Advisor, Austin Grandinetti and Chief Economic Strategist, Dr. Brian Jacobsen.  Also on the show, tax planning strategies later in life like one couple in their 80's.  You'll also hear if it's ever a good idea to pause your 401(k) contributions, and how to restart if you do.

It was a big week for central banks — from rate cuts and policy holds to talk of wrapping up quantitative tightening. The Fed made another move, bringing questions about what 2025 might bring. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack the key takeaways in this Week In Review. Plus, we'll dive into the “Labubu Trend” shaking up the collectibles market and what it teaches about investor behavior. Wrapping up the show, we highlight six practical benefits of using trusts in your financial planning. 

Finally, some data!  The CPI release that determines the 2026 cost of living adjustment for Social Security Benefits is out. Foreign data is still rolling in. China's challenges are evident…and likely to get worse unless there's a deal.  Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen will break it down in our Week in Review.  Also on the show, myths about taxes. Was getting a big refund check a good idea?  Later in the show, we'll talk with Deanne Phillips about taking advantage of tax benefits and resources if you are a caregiver for someone in your home.

Treasury Secretary Bessent said the department is prioritizing payments in its system in order to allow for US military staff to be paid.  Also, banks have said loan quality is pretty good.

The government shutdown.  TSA agents are calling in sick. That ended the shutdown in 2019.  Will it this time?  ACA subsidies are the sticking point. That and anxious investors drive gold prices above $4,000 an ounce, marking its best year since the 1976.

Could the government shutdown signal deeper cuts to federal employment? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review. Also on the show: Smart planning strategies for medical professionals, meaningful ways grandparents can support their grandchildren, and an inside look at the Annex process for High-Net-Worth clients.

With the federal government's fiscal year-end nearing and no compromise in sight, join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. This episode also explores the 4% retirement rule, Warren Buffett-style estate planning, why your 401(k) isn't a piggy bank, and common myths about trusts.

Economic growth may have already weathered its toughest challenges, with brighter days likely ahead. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss the Federal Reserve's latest decision. The show also examines 529 plans for education savings, key steps to selling a business, estate planning considerations for remarriage, and strategies to ensure a fulfilling retirement.

Did Spring 2024 to Summer 2024 have a mini recession? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss how the Bureau of Labor Statistics significantly overestimated employment figures in early 2024, missing signs of a slowdown that may have bordered on one. With the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates soon, there's an emphasis on the importance of transparency in economic data, and the Fed's challenge in balancing inflation control with supporting a cooling economy. Also, how to "age in place," and what to be aware of with lifestyle creep.

U.S. job growth slowed in August, reflecting a weakening labor market, with a net loss of 13,000 jobs reported in June. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Also on today's show: exploring the stages of retirement, supporting adult children, and key retirement planning tips—three things to do now and three things that can wait.

Earnings season is wrapping up, and the results are promising. FactSet reports that 81% of S&P 500 companies surpassed earnings expectations, with 58% raising their full-year 2025 earnings guidance. The “beat and raise” trend has been music to investors' ears. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review, where we break down the latest market insights. This week, we also explore why some people claim Social Security earlier than recommended, tackle the question of how much insurance you really need, and check in with Todd Voit, Chief Investment Strategist, for his expert perspective.

The housing market grapples with low builder confidence due to high mortgage rates and regulatory costs, alongside rising starts, falling permits, and high cancellations. In our Week-in-Review, Brian Jacobsen discusses these housing challenges, followed by separate insights on equity compensation and the rise in 'gray divorce.'

Inflation seems to have gone down to a manageable level. Does the Fed agree? And does the 4% rule still apply? Business sales transitions are an opportunity to reset your plan. 

The year started with major uncertainties in tax, trade, and Federal Reserve policies, which are now mostly resolved. The focus has shifted to how the economy will adapt. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. We'll also discuss concerns about using a 401(k) as an emergency fund, what qualifies as financial planning (and what doesn't), remarriage and estate planning, and more.

Rather than a trade war, which implies retaliation, we'll examine the latest trade policy developments and analyze Friday's jobs report. Our ongoing coverage of the One Big Beautiful Bill continues with insights on its tax implications and three key considerations for parents. Additionally, we'll discuss planning for blended families, essential pre-retirement questions, and a special segment on Generation X.

The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving. 

Despite challenging weather, the economy could gain momentum once the tariff "deadline" passes, with the One Big Beautiful Bill's tax incentives spurring investment and growth. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Plus, meet the newest member of the Annex Private Client team, explore six key benefits of trusts, learn how Annex supports clients planning a part-time retirement, and discover ways grandparents can financially support their grandchildren.

The "One Big Beautiful Bill's" 2025 provisions include business incentives, tax exemptions on tips and overtime, increased deductions, and an expanded child tax credit, all poised to deliver immediate economic impact. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. We'll also debunk a few tax myth before diving into planning for passion assets like cars, art, and wine. 

Economists anticipated a slowdown in job growth due to uncertainties surrounding trade and fiscal policies, but the data tells a different story. Brian Jacobsen shares insights in our Week-in-Review. This episode also covers key topics, including the steps to selling a business, the role of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst at Annex, strategies for successfully transitioning ownership of a family vacation property, and tips for dividing passion assets to prevent family conflicts.

The Fed initially suggested that tariffs would gradually raise prices while slowing growth more gradually. However, recent trends show growth declining faster than inflation is rising. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this shift and other key topics. The episode also concludes our Financial Jargon series, explores the 4% rule, reviews Warren Buffett's perspective on inheritance, and highlights connections between better health and lower taxes.

Recent data, including negative first-quarter GDP growth, rising initial jobless claims, and declining consumer inflation, suggests a case for a rate cut rather than a pause. However, the Federal Reserve opted to pause. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this in our Week-in-Review. Also on the show, learn how Annex tailors investment and retirement planning to your needs. What is a HENRY, and how can Annex support them? Plus, we debunk myths about trusts and explore reasons to stop financially supporting adult children.

On Friday morning, news of Israel's strike on Iran greeted most, heightening investor concerns. In line with historical trends, bond yields have dropped, oil prices have climbed, and stock markets have faced declines. In this Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share their perspectives. The program also delves into the rising trend of "gray divorce" among older adults, evaluates the wisdom of including cryptocurrency in 401(k) plans, and examines the Great Boomer Wealth Transfer. Additionally, we offer insights on avoiding retirement letdowns and explain how chasing "rich" might hinder true wealth-building.

The Federal Reserve's Beige Book reported a slight decline in economic activity, a phrase last used in November 2023, which foreshadowed the economic slowdown in Q1 2024. Uncertainty is driving caution among businesses and consumers, impacting growth. Brian Jacobsen discusses this in our Week-in-Review, alongside topics like common financial mistakes by age group, financial planning in the first year of widowhood, the role of a QDRO in divorce proceedings, and debunking myths about millionaires.

In this episode, hosts Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down the Week-in-Review. Consumer confidence rebounded in May, boosted by lower tariffs on China, which lifted expectations after hitting a five-year low in April. Despite fluctuating emotions, consumer spending remains steady, supported by stable employment as initial unemployment claims rise to average levels. The episode also explores equity compensation, spousal Social Security benefits, lifestyle creep, and the Annex Wealth Management insurance review process.

Different companies adopt varied strategies in response to tariffs, showcasing the strength of capitalism. However, investors face the challenge that companies absorbing tariff costs may see reduced earnings. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen explore this and other key topics. Separately, we examine why more individuals are opting to take Social Security benefits early, with insights from our financial planning team. The show also covers the art and science of cash flow modeling, the value of a financial advisor, and how to prepare for receiving an inheritance.

Q1 earnings season is in full swing, with S&P 500 earnings growth surpassing expectations, rising 13.4% year-over-year against the Street's forecast of 7.0%, as Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen explore in our Week-in-Review. Curious if Annex is right for you, how to avoid retirement disappointment, or what stages lie beyond go-go, slow-go, and no-go? We've got five questions to guide your decision, practical tips to ensure a fulfilling retirement, and insights into the evolving phases of retirement life.

While a UK deal progresses, trade tensions with China take center stage as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent heads to Switzerland this weekend for early talks. We continue Spring Cleaning with Part Two of our Investment series, exploring key questions. Also on the show: What should you do with unused education funds like 529s? Are you prepared to avoid common Retirement Killers? Plus, learn the essential steps for executing Roth conversions effectively.

The first quarter saw gross domestic product (GDP) dip by 0.3% on an annualized basis, translating to a modest quarterly decline of about 0.07%—essentially flat. Meanwhile, Friday's jobs report surpassed expectations. What does this mean for the markets? Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for the Week-in-Review. Plus, it's time for spring cleaning your investments, and we'll share key tips. Curious about whether you need an LLC? We'll explore that. And if you're considering selling your business, we'll outline the essential steps to follow.

Container traffic from China to the US is slowing sharply, and retailers like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot warned of possible empty shelves. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book raised concerns about an economic slowdown, but S&P Global PMIs held steady, though not stellar. Brian Jacobsen breaks it down in our Week-in-Review. We also dive into how Annex Private Client's “high speed, low drag” approach mirrors military efficiency, plus features on Distribution Planning and the Money Lies We Tell Ourselves. 

U.S. retail sales soared 1.4% in March, driven by a 5.3% spike in motor-vehicle purchases as consumers rushed to beat looming 25% auto tariffs and rising costs on other goods. But is this boom a fleeting high? Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review as they unpack what's next for the economy. Plus, we're diving into retirement planning for Gen X, sharing 6 key benefits of setting up a trust, and revealing 3 things to tackle early in retirement—and 3 that can wait.

It was a week of superlatives. Heightened volatility, inordinately large swings within the trading day, a massive rally, and nauseating reversals. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn more about strategies for business owners who are asset rich/cash poor. What is Warren Buffet's estate planning philosophy? Should you listen to 'finfluencers'? And what is Key Person Insurance and what is its role protecting a business? 

In investing, enduring volatility is simply the price of admission for long-term gains. Last week was about buckling up. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn about our Financial Literacy Month series of webinars, planning for medical professionals, prenuptial agreements and more. 

Goods price deflation has turned to mild inflation. That could accelerate, at least temporarily, with tariffs. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. We'll also cover behavioral finance during times of volatility, estate planning roles, and the 4 types of retirees. 

Fed projections had a faint aroma of stagflation. What's that mean for the markets?  Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn more about Cash Balance Plans, how Annex clients stay sharp in retirement, and why automatic 401k enrollment might be leading to less-than-desirable decisions. 

Big change takes big tools. You can't cut through a thicket with a scalpel. Brian Jacobsen presents our Week-in-Review. We'll look at volatility from a historic standpoint along with an examination of emotional reaction when markets slide. 

Uncertainty does not have to resolve in a bad way. It often resolves positively. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn more about investment diversification, 6 things you might NOT want to inherit, Annex Private Client and more.