The Real Investment Show Podcast

Are today's investors psychologically conditioned to buy every market dip—no matter the risk? Lance Roberts explores the "Investor Dilemma" through the lens of Pavlov's classical conditioning, revealing how years of Fed interventions, liquidity injections, and momentum rallies have trained investors to respond to volatility like Pavlov's dogs to a bell...and three Gold Myths you don't want to mith...er, miss. 0:20 - 1st Trading Day of November (w No Gov't Data) 4:06 - Markets' Long Stretch of Gains - Pullback Coming? 8:50 - Markets' Buy the Rumor - Sell the News to Fed Action 11:53 - Two Myths About the Federal Reserve 15:31 - Why the Fed Likely Ended QT 19:29 - The Investors' Dilemma 22:33 - The Definition of Moral Hazard 24:52 - The Change in Liquidity Index 27:36 - If there's No Risk, Why NOT Overpay for Stocks? 32:30 - Fundamentals Still Matter 35:37 - 10% Correction from Current Levels is a Possibility 38:00 - The Buying Part is Easy... 39:46 - The Three Myths About Gold 39:46 - The Three Myths About Gold

Markets have now logged six consecutive months of gains, a streak that's impressive—but also rare. History tells us that long runs of momentum often end with a pullback to the mean. In this pre-market update, Lance Roberts discusses: • Why the market's current overbought conditions could lead to a November or December correction • How deviations from long-term moving averages create short-term risk • What investors should watch before the Santa Claus rally season kicks in Now's the time to reassess portfolio risk and prepare for a month of potentially sloppy trading ahead.

Most investors have filled out a risk tolerance questionnaire—but does it really measure how you'll behave when markets crash? Richard Rosso & Jonathan McCarty break down why traditional risk tolerance tools fail to predict investor behavior, how emotions override risk profiles, and why time horizons, liquidity needs, and cash flow matter far more than a few survey questions. 0:19 - Halloween Prelude - Baby's First Halloween 2:31 - Risk Tolerance Tests - The Ugly Truth 6:00 - How Rich & Jonathan Scored 7:12 - The Spousal Tolerance Quiz 11:08 - Looking at Risk Tolerances in Couples 17:48 - What's Your Judgement Orientation? 21:52 - Responding to Market Moves - Mapped Portfolios 24:26 - What Happens When Powell is Out at the Fed 28:53 - Risk Tolerance Quizzes Do Not Reflect Reality When Markets Turn 30:30 - When Rich was 13 - Owning McDonald's 35:28 - EBT, Food Stamps, & Fast Food Comparisons 36:55 - Taking the Risk Quiz at 20 vs 50 39:08 - Investing Over-Confidence vs Balance 40:50 - The Millionaire Next Door I & II 43:34 - AI Impact on Market History Hosted by RIA Advisors Director of Financial Planning, Richard Rosso, CFP Senior Investment Advisor, Jonathan McCarty, CFP Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUIhiCubDgw&list=PLVT8LcWPeAuhi47sn298HrsWYwmg8MV7d&index=1 ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Bullish Momentum Builds," is here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quAIX8PhNZw&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1  ------- Our Previous Show, "The Most Dangerous Era in History," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxX1Xw_bQP4&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestm entadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #FinancialPlanning #RiskManagement #InvestorBehavior #WealthStrategy #RIAAdvisors

Why has Bitcoin captured the attention of investors and innovators alike? Lance Roberts & Vinay Gupta break down what makes Bitcoin unique — from its blockchain backbone to its role as currency, commodity, and speculative asset. We'll explore how to think about Bitcoin in a diversified portfolio, what risks investors need to understand, and why blockchain may reshape how business is done in the future.

Taking profits sounds easy—until you try it with a smaller account. Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn answer listeners' question about managing portfolios spread across myriad stocks, with allocations similar to the S&P 500. When positions are small, trimming into strength or reinvesting during market highs can feel nearly impossible. 0:19 - Profit Taking, Earnings, & FOMC Meeting Previews 4:48 - Market Bullishness Confirmed 10:05 - Managing Risk in Volatile Markets 13:55 - There's no Perfect Time 15:31 - Profit Taking in a C-fund 401k 21:05 - Taking Profits in Small Portfolios 23:11 - The Wisdom of Position Sizing 29:45 - What About Weighting in ETF's - There's no holy grail 34:36 - Documenting Allocation Models 39:01 - What Allocation Model is Best for You? 45:22 - The Three-legged Stool of Portfolio Returns 48:41 - Make Sure Portfolio Assets are not Correlated Together

Markets kicked off the week with renewed bullish momentum, breaking out of the rising trend channel after holding support at the 50-DMA. Liquidity continues to pour into equities as investors chase returns, while gold corrects and bonds quietly deliver solid year-to-date gains. In this short market update, Lance Roberts explains: • Why the backdrop for stocks remains bullish near-term • How liquidity rotation is fueling equities at gold's expense • Where gold may find support for its next move higher • Why bonds continue to offer steady total returns Hosted by RIA Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch the Video version of this report on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quAIX8PhNZw&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- Get more info & commentary: https://realinvestmentadvice.com/insights/real-investment-daily/ ------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #BullishMomentum #StockMarketUpdate #Gold #Bonds #Treasuries

We're living through one of the most dangerous eras in history — not because of war or politics alone, but because of the extraordinary convergence of economic, financial, and geopolitical risks. In this episode, we break down: How record global debt, AI-driven speculation, and geopolitical instability are colliding. Why the current market optimism masks systemic fragility. What investors can learn from past cycles — from 1929 to 2008 — to prepare for the next regime shift. The role of central banks, fiscal excess, and policy distortions that have created a fragile illusion of stability. 0:18 - EOM Approaches, Rare Earth, & the China Deal 4:28 - Markets Set New Highs 8:57 - Lance's Grandkid Solution 10:28 - The Dumbest Stock Market in History 12:53 - Why Are Markets trading at 200% Above GDP? 16:26 - Unforeseen Consequences of Passive Investing 21:54 - More ETF's than Mutual Funds 26:47 - Passive Indexing Underwrites the Markets 31:13 - The Causality of Liquidity 34:21 - Bubbles Don't Form, the Evolve 37:25 - Be Aware of the Risks You're Taking 45:14 - Cash Levels and Margin Debt

Markets hit new all-time highs Friday, with momentum improving and a fresh MACD buy signal confirming the uptrend. Relative strength continues to build, supporting the case for a year-end rally. But investors shouldn't get complacent. December's mutual fund rebalancing and short-term pullbacks could add volatility, even as corporate buybacks and under-positioned hedge funds keep providing support. In this video, we break down what's driving the rally, the technical signals confirming momentum, and what risks investors should still keep on their radar as we move into year-end.

Your greatest retirement risk isn't the market; it's living longer than you expect. Richard Rosso shares the Art of Retirement Income—how to enjoy your savings early in retirement while protecting your future lifestyle.

Gold's rally has investors shouting “dollar debasement!” — but is the narrative real, or just a speculative illusion? Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz break down the popular debasement argument and expose the facts behind the gold surge. From money supply trends to Fed policy and global confidence in the U.S. dollar, we separate the data from the hype. 0:19 - Stresses Emerging in Lower End of Economy 4:45 - The Oil Price Pop 6:35 -Good News - Bads News on Wall Street 10:38 -CPI Preview Despite Government Furlough 15:32 - Bond Market Expectations for Economic Growth 17:58 - The Challenge of Managing Money for the Future 20:11 - Wall Street is Selling 5x Leverage 24:47 - Liquidity is Showing Signs of Drying Up 26:42 - Debasement is Not a Room in Your House 29:42 - Where Does Money Come From? 30:45 - The Rise in Money Supply M-2 34:46 - The Loss of Confidence in the Dollar  40:00 - Central Banks are Hoarding Gold Reserves 46:21 - People Find Bubbles in Everything 48:15 - YouTube Chat - Banks Are Dumping Treasuries( ?) 49:28 - Is the Dollar Set to Strengthen? Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, w Portfolio Manger, Michael Lebowitz, CFA Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Articles Mentioned in Today's Show: "Dollar Debasement: Reality Or A Dangerous Narrative?" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/dollar-debasement-reality-or-a-dangerous-narrative/ -------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HNCz8Ogzxc&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Russia Sanctions Ignite Oil Rally," is here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7DyLmRRWoQ&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1  ------- Our Previous Show, "Teaching Kids About Money: Lessons From Investing's Biggest Mistakes," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXyQMURvV40&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=2 ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestm entadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #OilRally #EnergyStocks #RussiaSanctions #MarketUpdate #PreMarket #DollarDebasement #GoldInvesting #MarketAnalysis #RealInvestmentAdvice

Oil prices are surging after new sanctions on Russia sparked a wave of buying in the energy sector. After weeks of being oversold, crude is bouncing back — and energy stocks are following. In this quick pre-market update, we'll cover: Why new Russia sanctions are driving oil prices higher. The fresh MACD buy signal flashing for energy stocks. Key support levels at the 20- and 50-day moving averages. The widening gap between large-cap resilience and small-cap weakness. Why managing portfolio risk exposure matters more than ever. Stay tuned for the day's market setup — and subscribe for daily insights before the bell. Hosted by RIA Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO  Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch the Video version of this report on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7DyLmRRWoQ&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1  ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestmentadvice.com/insights/real-investment-daily/ ------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #OilRally #EnergyStocks #RussiaSanctions #MarketUpdate #PreMarket

How do we raise the next generation to be financially wise in a world obsessed with “getting rich quick”? In this episode, Lance Roberts sits down with financial writer Benjamin Gran to discuss the right way to teach children about money, work, and investing. From saving before investing, to understanding the true value of work, and avoiding the pitfalls of speculative frenzies — we cover everything from Enron and Kozmo.com to the meme-stock craze and the AI hype cycle on Wall Street. Benjamin and Lance break down how to build long-term investing habits that last, why risk management and time horizons matter more than “hot tips,” and how classic investing wisdom from John Bogle, Warren Buffett, and Charlie Munger still applies today. You'll also hear how parents can instill financial literacy and responsibility early — through chores, jobs, and saving — not just allowances and apps. The real secret? Teaching kids that saving money feels as good as spending it, and that success is built on work ethic, patience, and purpose.

Cash value life insurance often sparks debate — is it a smart financial tool or an expensive way to mix insurance with investing? Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn break down how cash value life insurance actually works and where it may (or may not) fit into your overall financial picture. 0:18 - Preview - Life Insurance & BYOB, Earnings Season Continues 6:00 - Markets Confirm Bullish Trend 10:55 - Private Credit Fund Warning - Subprime Credit Danger 18:22 - Whole Life Insurance Explained 19:51 - Whole Life vs Term, ULI, VUL 22:54 - Why Dave Ramsey is Wrong About Insurance 23:44 - The Math - Term vs Whole Life 25:51 - Why You Need Insurance 29:16 - Overfunding Strategies & Be Your Own Bank 32:49 - Whole Life vs Term (again) 37:59 - Beware Blanket Statements - Do the Research 39:28 - MEC - Modified Endowment Contracts 41:13 - When the Life Insurance Runs Out 43:02 - Converting Term to Whole Life 46:01 - Comming Attractions Whether you're building wealth, protecting your family, or planning for retirement, understanding this strategy can help you make smarter financial decisions.

Markets climbed above key moving averages on Monday, retesting the 50-DMA three times before pushing higher. The NASDAQ's QQQ hit new all-time highs as tech led the rally, while the S&P 500 Equal Weight (RSP) lagged—showing how narrow the market's leadership has become. The “buy-the-dip” mentality continues to dominate, delivering the best returns in 33 years. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar is trending higher, bond yields are sliding below 4%, and foreign investors are returning to U.S. markets. With the MACD close to turning back to a “buy,” a new market high could confirm the bullish trend.

Invest like a bull. Think like a bear. Lance Roberts dives into the mindset of successful investors: staying bullish on opportunity, but thinking like a bear when it comes to risk. Learn how to stay optimistic without losing discipline, why emotional control outperforms market hype, and how blending bullish conviction with bearish caution can help you thrive through any cycle. * How to stay invested while protecting capital  * Recognizing when optimism turns into speculation * Lessons from past market booms and busts * Why risk management is the true edge in investing

Markets spent last week trapped in a tight range between the 20- and 50-day moving averages. The 20-DMA, which had served as support for weeks, has now flipped into resistance. Futures are pointing higher this morning, suggesting traders are positioning for a potential breakout — but confirmation will depend on whether markets can close and hold above the 20-DMA this week. If that level fails, expect renewed pressure on the 50-DMA, where a cluster of stop-losses could trigger a deeper pullback. Earnings will be the dominant catalyst — strong results and upbeat forward guidance could provide the lift bulls need to reclaim momentum. ⚠️ Key Takeaways: 20-DMA resistance, 50-DMA support — critical inflection point Earnings results will likely dictate direction Keep stop-losses tight and avoid over-reacting to short-term noise Overall trend remains bullish — for now Hosted by RIA Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO  Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch the Video version of this report on our YouTube channel: http://bit.ly/4qldYN8  ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestmentadvice.com/insights/real-investment-daily/ ------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #StockMarketToday #MarketAnalysis #TechnicalAnalysis #InvestingNews #StockMarketUpdate #TechnicalAnalysis #MarketMomentum #InvestingInsights #PreMarketReport

Medicare's Fall Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, and this is your chance to review, compare, and adjust your coverage for 2026. Richard Rosso & Jonathan McCarty review six crucial steps to help you make smarter Medicare choices — from evaluating plan changes and comparing drug coverage to avoiding common enrollment mistakes. Whether you're already on Medicare Advantage or reviewing Part D drug plans, understanding how to navigate this annual window could save you thousands in healthcare costs next year. 1:34 - Dealing w Medicare Open Enrollment 3:59 - Jonathan's Baby & Diaper Service 9:10 - Prescription Drug Formularies & Changes 12:11 - Shopping Around for Medicare Advantage Plans 17:56 - Recommended Alphabet Formula 21:15 - What Medicare Advantage is NOT 24:55 - Medicare Part-G Open Architecture 26:52 - Where to Start - ID Verification Woes 30:17 - The Medicare Plan Finder 34:34 - The RIA Medicare Screening Tool 43:34 - How and Where to Start Hosted by RIA Advisors Director of Financial Planning, Richard Rosso, CFP, w Senior Investment Advisor, Jonathan McCarty, CFP  Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/3KSVvYg ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Markets Reclaim 20-DMA — Can It Hold?" is here:  http://bit.ly/46WMYfq ------- Our Previous Show, "Capitalism: The Real Path to Wealth & Happiness" is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zw3gGV13x0&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1&t=3s ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestm entadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #MedicareOpenEnrollment #RetirementPlanning #MedicareAdvantage #FinancialEducation #HealthcareCosts

What makes capitalism the most successful wealth-building system in history?  Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz explore how economic freedom, private ownership, and innovation incentives have lifted billions out of poverty and created unmatched prosperity. Why do societies that embrace free markets and entrepreneurship tend to enjoy higher standards of living, longer lifespans, and greater personal happiness? Lance & Michael examine the misconceptions surrounding capitalism—why critics often overlook the power of voluntary exchange and how wealth creation benefits everyone over time. 0:19 - Earnings Season is Underway w 75% Beat Rates 4:49 - Markets Maintain Bullish Trend w Lackluster Conviction 8:23 - The Itch to Twitch w Royalty-free Music 10:04 - The Fed Moves Forward - Net Impact to Bond Market 13:58 - There is No More Liquidity - Effects in Crypto Realm 17:03 - The Danger of Buying Crypto on Margin 19:57 - Leverage Works Worse in Reverse 24:04 - When the Markets Break 29:59 - Capitalism vs Socialism - the path to prosperity 31:49 - Quantifying Capitalism - The Economic Freedom Index 35:22 - Capitalism is Not an Equalization System 38:23 - The Global Decline of Economic Freedom 39:32 - Does Wealth Buy Happiness? 40:58 - Defining the "American Dream" 43:16 - Why Businesses Fail 44:51 - The Savanna Bananas 46:57 - Capitalism Is Not Fair

After a volatile session, markets managed to reclaim the 20-day moving average — but barely. Weak volume and narrow participation suggest the move lacked conviction. While futures are pointing higher this morning, recent trading patterns have shown early gains often fade quickly. The good news: the market has worked off much of its overbought condition. The bad news: momentum remains weak, and we're still on a MACD sell signal. Until that reverses, risk stays elevated. In today's pre-market update, Lance Roberts breaks down:

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell just hinted that the Fed may soon pause its balance-sheet runoff — a potential shift that could reshape market liquidity and investor sentiment. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff break down: * Why the Fed may pause QT — and what it signals about financial conditions. * How ending balance-sheet runoff affects liquidity, yields, and asset prices. * What history tells us about QT pauses and subsequent market rallies. * Why the Fed's portfolio composition (Treasuries vs. MBS) still matters for inflation and housing. * Portfolio tactics if the liquidity tide begins to turn. 0:19 - Markets' Rally on Powell QT Comments 4:16 - Speculation Continues on Wall St 8:40 - Childhood Bedtimes & Digital Devices 14:36 Is Quantitative Tightening About to End? 16:55 - What is the Result of Easing QT? 19:37 - Where's the Risk: Private Credit/Equity 21:12 - The Fed's Moral Hazard & History of Bailouts 26:01 - How Would a Failure of FNMA Loans Affect the Economy? 28:34 - What Led to the 2007-2008 Financial Crisis 32:13 - The Bigger Risk of Too Much Money Chasing Too Few Deals 35:45 - The Last Stages of Asset Development 40:11 - IRS Rules Changes for Roths 45:12 - Comming Attractions   Whether the Fed is stabilizing the system or setting up the next round of excess — it's a key inflection point investors can't ignore.

Are annuities the safe retirement solution they're sold as — or a financial trap in disguise? Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn unpack the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of annuities.  10:03 - Kitchen Sets & Intramural Flag Football 14:52 - Annuities - Good, Bad, & Ugly 18:08 - What is an Annuity? 20:16 - Different Flavors of Annuities 22:07 - The Ugly Truth About Early Surrender Fees 27:29 - Why Might You Need an Annuity? 31:20 - Three Reasons You'd Need an Annuity 34:36 - Annuities Should Be Planned, not Sold 38:14 - Why Buy an Annuity Instead of Investing in the Market? 41:00 - One More Reason... 43:25 - Are There Inflation-adjusted Annuities? 47:05 - Are Annuities Divorce-proof? 48:59 - Lance's Marriage Advice 49:52 - Tax Deferral Options 51:59 - More Marriage Advice - His & Her Money   Whether you're considering a fixed, variable, or indexed annuity, this episode will help you separate sales pitch from sound strategy — so you can decide if annuities deserve a place in your portfolio.

Markets are at a turning point after Friday's dip to the 50-day moving average and Monday's rebound. But with futures pointing lower, investors are asking: will this rally hold—or fold? In today's pre-market briefing:

Are markets completely disconnected from economic reality? In this exclusive conversation, Lance Roberts of RIA Advisors sits down with Daniel LaCalle, Chief Economist at Tressis and author of Freedom or Equality, to examine the illusion of wealth, sovereign-debt bubbles, and why the next global crisis may already be forming beneath the surface.

How do you make every dollar work harder for you?  Richard Rosso breaks down the Hierarchy of Smart Savings Strategies — a smart, structured approach to prioritize where to save and invest for maximum growth and minimum taxes. This simple yet powerful framework helps you build wealth efficiently, protect against taxes, and optimize your financial future. 0:19 - Foundational Basis & Economic Conundrum 8:05 - Prioritizing Saving Money - Pay Yourself First 12:58 - How to Create a Tax Management Wave 15:50 - The Triple Tax Benefits of HSA's 18:39 - After-tax Contributions to 401k 21:04 - Investing & Spending 23:55 - Life Insurance applications

A recession usually means falling inflation and lower bond yields — good news for bond investors. But what if this time is different? Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz break down how the next recession could flip the bond trade from bullish to bearish — and why government policy and fiscal stimulus may once again distort the relationship between inflation, yields, and bond prices. 0:19 - US Dollar Impact on Multi-national Companies 3:32 - Expectations for Market Reversal 9:45 - The AI Chase & Circular Money Flow 13:17 - Investments are Based on Hopeful Future Demand  16:28 - The Question of The How & The When 19:12 - The Nvidia - AMD - OpenAI Conundrum 20:07 - Natural Gas is the Only Answer for next 5-years 22:02 - Markets Are Chasing Whatever Goes Up 24:24 - The Lesson for Diversifying 26:15 - Do Bonds Protect Investors in the Next Recession? 32:18 - Preview of Daniel LaCalle Interview 35:38 - Gold is Fueling Dollar Debasement 39:43 - All Asset Classes will Reverse Eventually 43:33 - Is This Time Different? 50:06 - Coming Attractions

Markets continue to push higher as optimism remains strong, fueled by massive corporate share buybacks and record retail inflows. Since April, liquidity has been the lifeblood of this rally — but beneath the surface, the setup is increasingly fragile. The MACD has been flat for weeks, volatility remains near historic lows, and options positioning shows a large negative delta. That combination can unwind quickly if the 20-DMA gives way. A simple 5% correction could feel twice as painful after months of calm. In today's pre-market video, we discuss: Why money flows and buybacks are propping up markets The warning signs of fragility beneath the surface What a 20-DMA break could mean for risk assets Simple portfolio tactics to manage exposure before volatility returns

Join Lance Roberts for a live open Q&A on markets, money, and investing. We'll cover what's on your mind—from market melt-ups and Fed policy to portfolio positioning and economic risks. No scripts, no fluff—just real talk and real answers about what's moving markets and shaping investor behavior. 0:19 - Markets are Absorbing Money 4:14 - Profit Taking in Bitcoin 9:15 - YouTube Poll - The #1 Thing on Your Mind About Markets 10:09 - How Do You Invest Right Now?  12:23 - Liquidity is King 18:05 - You WILL Mind a 5% Down Market 20:39 - #1 Concern - Liquidity in Markets 27:37 - The Problem w Markets is Narratives 29:34 - Economic Data Not Dramatically Changing 33:06 - The AI Story, Tesla Robots, & Productivity 35:48 - Employees Are Not Fun 39:32 - Coming Attractions - Daniel LaCalle Interview

Markets were slightly lower on Tuesday, but small caps and Bitcoin saw sharper declines as investors took profits. After notching new highs, Bitcoin is now forming a potential series of tops — and what happens next could determine whether this rally continues or a correction unfolds. At the same time, the U.S. Dollar is quietly breaking out of its consolidation range to the upside. A stronger Dollar typically pressures risk assets, from emerging markets to commodities and crypto. The question now: Is this just a one-day pullback—or the start of a broader shift? In this pre-market update, Lance Roberts breaks down: Why Bitcoin's pattern may be signaling a near-term turning point. How the Dollar's breakout could reshape global asset performance. What the small-cap selloff says about investor sentiment and liquidity.

In your 30s, 40s, or 50s, life gets busy—and money decisions get complicated. Many professionals fall into the same midlife financial traps that quietly erode their future wealth. Lance Roberts & Jon Penn unpack seven common midlife money mistakes that can derail your long-term goals—from lifestyle creep and poor diversification to credit card debt and get-rich-quick schemes. Learn how to stay focused, protect your growing assets, and build financial independence while managing the real pressures of midlife. 0:19 - Taco Tuesday & Gov't. Shutdown Day-7 4:23 - Is the Rising Trend Line About to End? 10:53 -Mid-life Crises & Dealing w Debt 17:31 - Christina's Amazon Budget & Nutcracker Fetish  19:40 - Mission Creep & Budget Leakage 24:20 - The Danger of Using Credit Cards for Points 29:09 - Hard Money Lending & Usury 32:51 - Trade Your Way to Wealth & Other Get-rich-quick schemes 36:06 - Inflation's Effects on Purchasing Power 37:58 - Markets Can Make You Appear Smarter than You Are 39:06 - Get Debt Free 41:17 - Why You Should Never, Ever, Never, Ever Borrow from Your 401k 47:15 - The Truth About Bankruptcy 49:09 - Coming Attractions

Markets hit new all-time highs Monday, closing up roughly 40 basis points, and futures point higher again this morning. But beneath the surface, extreme deviations above the 200-day moving average are forming—a setup that rarely lasts. In this short video, Lance Roberts explains why markets stretched this far above long-term averages eventually correct, how those drawdowns affect investors both financially and psychologically, and why low-quality, no-income stocks are suddenly leading the rally.

Investors often believe that when markets “recover,” their portfolios do too — but that's a dangerous illusion. In this episode, Lance Roberts breaks down why percentage losses and gains are not symmetrical, and how a 50% loss requires a 100% gain just to break even. We'll discuss why bear market math destroys long-term returns, how emotional investors get trapped in the “illusion of recovery,” and why managing risk during drawdowns matters more than chasing every rally. 0:19 - The First Full Trading Week of October - Action 4:11 - Markets - Overbought & Overconfident? 9:27 - Where is the Promised Recession? 12:06 - What is Supporting the Market?  15:53 - The Overall Liquidity Base is Still Flush 19:19 - Annual vs Intra-year Returns Comparison 22:18 - Understanding Losses in Bear Markets - not symmetrical 27:02 - The Math of Loss 29:32 - The Importance of Understanding the Difference Between Points & Percentages 33:49 - Why Markets Do Not Compound 34:19 - The Function of Time on Investments 39:26 - Six Strategies That Work When Markets Don't 46:48 - Preview: Trading Guide Rules from Master Investors

Markets flirted with all-time highs again on Friday, but the speculative fever is spreading fast. From overbought gold and rising volatility to widening gaps between prices and moving averages, signs of investor overconfidence are everywhere. In this pre-market update, Lance Roberts breaks down: Why speculation is building across stocks, gold, and global markets The growing disconnect between market prices and fundamentals What rising VIX volatility and overbought gold could signal How momentum and sentiment extremes can lead to sharp corrections

Protecting your family starts with the right financial basics. In this video, we break down the must-have estate planning tools, insurance coverage, and financial safeguards every household needs. From wills and trusts to life insurance, disability coverage, and guardianship designations, we'll cover how to ensure your loved ones are secure no matter what happens. We'll also dive into digital assets, medical directives, and children's financial planning — the often-overlooked steps that protect families from unnecessary risks. ✅ Learn the financial documents every family should have ✅ Avoid common mistakes that leave families unprotected ✅ Build peace of mind with a plan that covers all bases 0:20 - Green on the Screen on Day-3 of Government Shutdown 4:05 - Risk Management thru Estate Planning 7:28 - Basic Estate Planning Documents You Need to Have 9:48 - Powers of Attorney 18:19 The Document Repository 21:03 - Post-mortem Plans - Trusts vs Wills 28:23 - Designating Beneficiaries 36:11 - Disability & Long Term Care Insurance Considerations 42:43 - Letters of Intent

The government shutdown has silenced the Bureau of Labor Statistics, leaving investors without the monthly jobs report. But does Wall Street really need the BLS to keep moving? Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz explore what happens when government labor data goes missing, how traders adapt, and what alternative indicators might offer clues about the state of the economy. Lance and Mike also examine valuation metrics in the markets, and discuss claims that interest rates are still too high. Can the "AI Effect" sustaining markets and the economy continue into 2026? 0:19 - What the Economic Surprise Index is Saying 4:29 - Markets Hit All-time High. Again. 9:30 - When P/E Ratios are Elevated 12:25 - 1999 Valuations vs Now 13:52 - Is the AI Excitement Worth It? 17:47 - The Risk of Disappointment 21:57 - Government Shutdown Ramifications 24:03 - BLS vs ADP 27:31 - What JOLTS & IRS Data is Telling Us 33:44 - Stephen Miran - Are Rates Too High? 35:38 - The Fallacy of CPI 37:37 - Immigration Impact on Economic Growth 39:00 - The Natural Rate of Interest 41:26 - The Taylor Rule Explained 45:17 - Will AI Spending Be Able to Continue into 2026? 46:58 - The Resilience of the Market

Markets reached new all-time highs Wednesday, once again bouncing off the 20-day moving average. Since April, each test of the 20-DMA has sparked fresh rallies, while volatility remains tightly compressed. With October seasonality often providing tailwinds, investors are asking: is the market set up for a strong year-end run? In today's pre-market update, we cover: Why markets keep holding the 20-DMA trendline The impact of October volatility and average returns Healthcare strength broadening gains beyond AI How a pullback could set up November's rally Why early December may bring some profit-taking Will October tailwinds carry the market higher, or is a pullback first on the horizon? Hosted by RIA Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO  Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch the Video version of this report on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItZKs7kgaEU&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1  ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestmentadvice.com/insights/real-investment-daily/ ------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #StockMarket #MarketUpdate #InvestingNews #AllTimeHighs #YearEndRally #Investing #SP500 #MarketOutlook #Finance #InvestingAdvice #Money    

The U.S. government shutdown has officially started. What does this mean for the economy, markets, and your investments? Lance Roberts covers the immediate fallout from the shutdown on federal spending, workers, and services ; how markets have historically reacted during shutdowns—and what to expect this time; the risk to GDP, delayed economic data releases, and consumer confidence. This shutdown is more than politics—it's a real test for the economy and financial markets. Stay informed and prepared. [*NOTE: YouTube sustained severe streaming issues during this morning's live feed. This is a separate recording of the show.]

October kicks off the seasonally strong six months of the year (Oct–Mar), but investors shouldn't assume smooth sailing. Historically, October averages about a 1% gain. Yet markets just notched five straight months of S&P 500 gains during the seasonally weak window, raising the odds of a short-term pullback. In this pre-market update, Lance Roberts breaks down: Why history suggests a 4–5% correction may be due. How earnings season, corporate buybacks, and fund managers playing “catch-up” could fuel year-end support. The balance between seasonal strength and the need for markets to reset. Corrections are normal and often healthy—positioning portfolios for the rally that could close out the year.

Why do we invest? The answer goes far beyond just making money. Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn, Two Dads on Money, break down the most important reasons people put their money to work in the markets. Lance and Jon also show why investing is not just for Wall Street professionals—it's for everyone. Whether you're just starting out or refining your long-term strategy, this episode will give you a clear framework for why investing is essential for financial freedom and peace of mind. 0:19 - Quarter-end Rebalancing & Potential Gove't Shutdown 6:14 - Pay Attention to the US Dollar 12:49 - Why & How We Invest: Real Estate & FOMO 18:41 - Trade Like a Pro - Not a Gambler 23:27 - Dealing w Emotions as Investors 25:28 - When Life Happens - Car Batteries & Tires 31:53 - The Major Reason We Invest: Growing Savings Faster than Inflation 37:28 - Market Compounding is a Myth 38:49 - Why Money Sitting in Cash for Opportunity 41:06 - Next Week's Show Preview

The U.S. Dollar has been weak, but a long basing pattern suggests a potential reversal. What would a Dollar rally mean for global markets, corporate profits, and investor portfolios?  Lance Roberts breaks down: * Why the Dollar matters for multi-national companies and profit margins. * How CTA short positions could fuel a sharp rally. * The impact on commodities, bonds, and global capital flows. * Why a Dollar counter-trend rally could be one of the least-expected—and most market-shaking—trades right now.

Lance Roberts examines one of the most reliable technical analysis tools investors use to measure market risk: the Relative Strength Index (RSI). The RSI helps identify when markets are overbought, oversold, or diverging from price action. While RSI is not a perfect “buy or sell” signal, it is a powerful guardrail for risk management. History shows that overbought conditions can persist much longer than expected, but when momentum fades, corrections can arrive suddenly.

After a three-day selloff, is the market still on track for 7,000? Last week's decline tested the 20-DMA momentum line — a level that has held strong since April. Futures are pointing higher this morning, suggesting the bullish trend remains intact. But with the S&P 500 still 10% above its 200-DMA, the risk of a deeper correction can't be ignored. In today's pre-market update, we'll cover: Why the 20-DMA is a key support level How far markets could fall if the 200-DMA is tested What analysts mean by a 7,000 target for the S&P 500 December's mutual fund distributions and their impact on markets Why the bullish trendline from October 2022 is still in play Despite near-term risks, the bigger trend remains constructive. The key is managing portfolio risk carefully as we move toward year-end.

College planning season is here — and the last quarter of 2025 brings critical deadlines for students and parents. Jonathan Penn and Sarah Buenger break down what you need to know about FAFSA, scholarships, and smart funding strategies for higher education.

The Federal Reserve's latest move has investors asking: Is policy turning more accommodative or staying restrictive? Lance Roberts and Michael Lebowitz decode the Fed's decision, cut through the jargon, and explain what it means for markets, rates, and your money. We'll cover: What the Fed actually signaled last week The difference between accommodative and restrictive policy How markets typically react to these shifts Key risks for stocks, bonds, and the economy going forward Stay tuned as we unpack the Fed's message and put it into plain language for investors navigating uncertain markets. SEG-1a: On becoming "vintage" and Irrational Exuberance SEG-1b: Markets Appear to be Pulling Back SEG-2a: Jerome Powell's "Fairly Valued" Market Assessment SEG-2b:The Virtual Circle of the Markets & Economy SEG-2c: Quad Chart: Is the Fed too Easy or too Restrictive? SEG-2d: Markets Are Always Searching for a Narrative SEG-2e: AI Impact - A Double-edged Sword SEG-2f: What Credit Spread Compression is Telling Us SEG-2g: How We Manage in the Markets Now SEG-2h: The Fed Jargon Test Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, ww Portfolio Manger, Michael Lebowitz, CFA Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Articles Mentioned in Today's Show: "Accommodative Or Restrictive? Decoding The Fed's Latest Move" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/accommodative-or-restrictive-decoding-the-feds-latest-move/ -------- Watch today's video on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDHV6eIWGlI&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 -------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Market Pullback or Just a Pause?" is here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYd7d13Iu1Y&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- Our Previous Show, "Strange Recession Signals: What Markets & Odd Indicators are Telling us" is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKIv4RZn6sE&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestmentadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #StockMarketToday #PreMarketUpdate #MarketPullback #EnergyStocks #StockMarketAnalysis #DecodingTheFed #FederalReserve #FedDecision #InterestRates #MarketOutlook #InvestingAdvice #Money #Investing

Markets are gently pulling back after 107 straight days without a 2% swing—one of the longest quiet stretches in recent history. While we're not calling for a crash, momentum and breadth are weakening as money flows decline, signaling that more sellers may be stepping in. At the same time, energy stocks are showing relative strength, breaking out even as oil prices remain flat around $64/bbl. Could energy be the bullish story while the broader market cools off? Lance Roberts break down: Why extended streaks of gains often invite short-term corrections The dichotomy between strong trends and weakening internals What rising energy stocks could mean for sector rotation Key risks to watch as markets digest their overbought positions Stay tuned for market insights before the opening bell and learn how to navigate the push-and-pull of trends vs. internals.  

Are we really on the edge of a recession—or are investors just overthinking the signals?  Beyond unemployment and consumer spending, unusual data points like men's underwear sales, cardboard box demand, and even giant Halloween skeleton purchases are popping up as quirky economic indicators. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff break down:  • Traditional recession signals like jobless claims, consumer spending, and market fundamentals.  • Technical market warnings investors can't ignore.  • Why strange metrics like cardboard boxes and holiday spending trends might reveal cracks in the economy.  • The psychology driving investors to go “all in” or “head for the exits.” SEG-1a: The Dichotomy of Economic Data SEG-1b: When Stocks are "Richly Valued" SEG-2a: The Economic Indicators of Recession SEG-2b: Strange Economic Indicators SEG-2c: The Giant Skeleton Indicator SEG-2d: When Will Indicators Change? SEG-2e: How Gig Workers Skew Employment Data SEG-2f: What Would an Impending Recession Mean to the Stock Market? SEG-2g: A Change in Quarterly Reporting? SEG-2h: What If We Went Back to the Lows of April? Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, w Senior Investment Advisor, Danny Ratliff, CFP Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch today's video on YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKIv4RZn6sE&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 -------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Jerome Powell's Alan Greenspan Moment" is here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKShoQvDm38&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- Our Previous Show, "Two Dads on Money: Spotting Red Flags in Financial Advisors," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLQnqk_I9Ow&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=2 ------- Get more info & commentary:  https://realinvestmentadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #JeromePowell #StockMarketUpdate #PreMarketAnalysis #OverboughtMarkets #MarketVolatility #AlanGreenspan #RichlyValued #RecessionIndicators #StockMarketAnalysis #EconomicSignals #MarketFundamentals #InvestingInsights #InvestingAdvice #Money #Investing

Markets pulled back Tuesday as Jerome Powell had his “Alan Greenspan moment,” warning that stocks are “richly valued.” While the dip worked off some overbought conditions, futures point higher this morning and the positive trend remains intact. Lance Roberts interprets what Powell's comments mean for investors, the widening gap between stock prices and moving averages, and why compressed volatility could set the stage for a sharper sell-off if something breaks. Stay tuned as we discuss: Why Powell's remarks echo Greenspan's famous caution. The risks of stretched valuations and market gaps. Key technical levels investors should be watching. Why volatility creeping higher may matter more than it seems.

Not all financial advisors are created equal.  Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn break down the biggest red flags you should watch out for before trusting someone with your financial future. From hidden fees to pushy sales tactics, we'll show you how to separate the pros from the pretenders. Whether you're interviewing a new advisor or reviewing your current one, these insights will help you protect your money and make smarter decisions.

Markets keep climbing along the moving averages, but warning signs are building. Negative divergences between money flows and price action suggest fewer buyers stepping in, even as stocks remain overbought. With support levels at the 50- and 100-day moving averages, any pullback may be shallow—and could set the stage for a year-end rally. In this pre-market update, we cover: Why divergences between money flows, oil, and energy stocks matter now. How support at key moving averages could cushion a correction. What earnings season and Trump's push to reduce reporting requirements mean for investors. Why the Dollar's consolidation supports asset prices—and what it signals for growth. Stay ahead of the open with the insights you need to manage risk and capture opportunity.

Are markets set to keep climbing, or are we staring down the next pullback? Lance Roberts breaks down the bullish vs. bearish case for stocks, exploring what could fuel the rally—and what risks could trip it up. From the Federal Reserve's latest moves, to earnings trends, market breadth, and money flows, we'll cover the key factors driving sentiment. Whether you lean bullish or bearish, this analysis will help you understand the forces shaping today's market. Also in this show, commentary on Lance's daughter's first college exam, Donald Trump's Tik Tok dealing: Who will benefit?  SEG-1a: All Bull Markets End in a Bear Market SEG-1b: Markets Continue Elevated Advance SEG-2a: Take Caution in Over Bought Markets SEG-2b: Citadel Securities - No Free Lunch SEG-2c: Market Tension Between Expectations & Reality SEG-2d: The Bull Case SEG-2e: The Bear Case SEG-2f: The Narrow Market  SEG-2g: What Investors Should Do Now

Markets are climbing at a pace that simply can't last. With retail investors pouring in $4 billion a day and corporate buybacks adding another $5 billion daily, the market's steep advance has pushed prices far above long-term averages. In this Before the Bell update, Lance Roberts reviews: Why extreme inflows are fueling unsustainable market momentum The risks of overbought conditions and stretched valuations Why a 3–5% correction could happen suddenly—even if the trend remains bullish What investors should watch for in managing risk History shows that reversions to the mean always happen. The only question is what catalyst sparks the next pullback. Stay disciplined, stay cautious, and remember: risk management is more important than market momentum.