Podcasts about i bonds

In this episode we answer emails from Wilson, Tim, and John.  We discuss why life insurance products are not magical perpetual motion machines that make your portfolios go faster, why insurance contracts cannot outperform the same underlying investments once costs and commissions are included, and how insurance marketers mislead the public with biased studies. We also a listener's musical tastes and answer an I Bonds allocation question.And we discuss our Top of the T-shirt Campaign (Part Deux!) for the Father McKenna Center.And THEN we our go through our weekly portfolio reviews of the eight sample portfolios you can find at Portfolios | Risk Parity Radio.Additional Links:Father McKenna Center Donation Page (please mention Risk Parity Radio in the comment section with your donation):  Donate - Father McKenna CenterWilson's First Link to Insurance Marketing Materials:  WBC-Whitepaper-Integrating-Whole-Life-Insurance-into-a-Retirement-Income-Plan-Emphasis-on-Cash-Value-as-a-Volatility-Buffer-Asset.pdfWilson's Second Link to Insurance Marketing Materials:  Benefits of integrating insurance products into a retirement plan (pdf)Breathless Unedited AI-Bot Summary:Whole life insurance gets marketed like a magic third thing: safer than stocks, better than bonds, and somehow able to “buffer” retirement withdrawals when markets drop. We slow that claim down and look at what it really is: an insurance contract with costs, commissions, and built-in friction that has to come out of your return somewhere.We talk through why incentives matter so much in the financial services industry, especially when the person advising you also gets paid to sell permanent life insurance. Then we use a simple mental model, the first law of thermodynamics, to explain why inserting a contract between you and the underlying investments cannot increase performance. If an insurance company invests your premiums in conservative assets, the most you can get back is what those assets earn minus the policy's expenses, insurance charges, and sales costs.Next, we show how the sales math often works: bury the assumptions, headline the results. We break down the kinds of inputs that can make a Monte Carlo analysis or a 4% rule chart look scary on purpose, including inflated fees, unrealistic retirement tax brackets, unnecessary term insurance choices, and conservative forward return “crystal ball” projections. Frank also shares his own whole life policy numbers as a real-world reference point.We close with a listener question on I Bonds versus Treasury bond ETFs, a straightforward take on tax location and allocation choices, and our weekly portfolio review across the sample risk parity portfolios. If you find this useful, subscribe, share the episode with a DIY investor, and leave a rating and review.Support the show

We talked about why inflation is so dangerous in retirement, how stocks can help you stay ahead of inflation, why dividend growth matters, how bonds behave in rising rate environments, and how tools like TIPS and I Bonds can fit into a broader strategy. We also talked about practical steps like reducing high-interest debt and managing spending more intentionally. Today I want to zoom out and talk about the bigger picture.

Yesterday I talked about TIPS and I Bonds—two investment tools designed to help offset inflation. But today I want to zoom out and talk about something just as important: the practical, everyday decisions that can help you fight inflation outside of your portfolio.

Today I want to talk about two tools that are often used specifically for inflation protection: Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, or TIPS, and I Bonds.

"Opportunity cost" analysis could make you think that every dollar you spend is ruining your future retirement finances. We address this way of thinking in today's "Ask Me Anything" episode.  Looking for a financial planner?  → PlanWithJesse.com Jesse explores three listener questions spanning core retirement planning tradeoffs. First, he unpacks the concept of opportunity cost, arguing that while it's mathematically valid to project small spending decisions (like vacations or food choices) into large future dollar amounts using compound growth, doing so at an aggressive portfolio return can become misleading and behaviorally counterproductive. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing frugality from harmful "cheapness" and highlights that many expenses also deliver real utility, not just cost. Second, he evaluates Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), explaining how they work, how they differ from I Bonds, and why they are useful for inflation hedging but not a complete substitute for equities or traditional bonds due to lower expected returns and interest rate risk. Third, he examines portfolio construction across multiple accounts, contrasting simple mirrored allocations with more tax-efficient asset location strategies. While optimized asset location can improve outcomes, he concludes the benefit is relatively modest compared to higher-impact financial decisions, reinforcing a prioritization framework for retirement planning decisions. Key Takeaways: • Opportunity cost is mathematically valid but often misused in personal finance discussions. • Frugality and being "cheap" are not the same—cutting essential spending can reduce quality of life disproportionately. • Applying opportunity cost logic universally leads to absurd conclusions (e.g., coffee, schooling, healthcare). • TIPS returns are typically lower than nominal Treasuries due to inflation protection. • A blended approach (TIPS + Treasuries) can balance inflation protection and flexibility. • Financial planning should prioritize high-impact decisions before optimizing tax placement.  Key Timestamps: (01:03) – Question 1: Opportunity Cost: Being Cheap vs. Frugal (06:47) – Does It Make Sense Mathematically? (09:32) – Shockingly Not-So-Simple Social Security (13:27) – Isn't the Trip Worth the Money? (18:23) – Question 2: Are TIPS Worth It? (21:24) – TIPS vs. I-Bonds (22:09) – Inflation Risk (27:29) – Question 3: Asset Allocation vs. Location (31:45) – Why Not Add One More Lever? (34:59) – Practical Example (39:31) – Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze? Key Topics Discussed: The Best Interest, Jesse Cramer, Wealth Management Rochester NY, Financial Planning for Families, Fiduciary Financial Advisor, Comprehensive Financial Planning, Retirement Planning Advice, Tax-Efficient Investing, Risk Management for Investors, Generational Wealth Transfer Planning, Financial Strategies for High Earners, Personal Finance for Entrepreneurs, Behavioral Finance Insights, Asset Allocation Strategies, Advanced Estate Planning Techniques Mentions: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2026/04/16/the-shockingly-simple-math-behind-social-security/   https://bestinterest.blog/when-the-shockingly-simple-math-is-shockingly-wrong/   https://bestinterest.blog/the-long-term-investors-order-of-operations/   https://bestinterest.blog/e121/   More of The Best Interest: Check out the Best Interest Blog at https://bestinterest.blog/ Contact me at jesse@bestinterest.blog    Need a financial planner?  → PlanWithJesse.com   The Best Interest Podcast is a personal podcast meant for education and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.

The easy 5% returns on cash may be disappearing — but that doesn't mean your money has to stop working hard.In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis breaks down one of the biggest shifts happening in personal finance right now: the decline of high-yield cash account rates. After two years of earning 5%+ in savings accounts and money markets, many investors are wondering where to move their cash next.In this episode, you will learn:Why high-yield savings accounts and money market funds are no longer paying what they did just a year ago.The differences between money market funds, CDs, Treasuries, I Bonds, municipal bonds, annuities, and dividend-paying stocks.How to evaluate cash investments using the four pillars: risk, liquidity, rate, and taxes.Tax-efficient strategies that can help high-income investors potentially keep more of their returns.And more!Tune in for an in-depth discussion on how to reposition cash in a falling-rate environment, the importance of matching investments to your time horizon, and why the highest yield isn't always the best after-tax outcome for your financial plan.Resources:Episode Transcript & Blog | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory CallWant to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc

Gene and Alyssa answered questions and explored important topics: He wants to know if I-Bonds are good for him? She asks if she should cash in her investments and head to bank CDs? He asks why his 401(k) is ‘forcing' him into Roth contributions? She asks how the Trump-China trip might impact America? Free Second Opinion Meetings Meet with a More than Money advisor to review your entire financial picture or simply project your retirement Meet with our Social Security partner to plan the best S/S strategy for you Meet with our estate planning attorney partner to review your estate plans – if you have any Meet with our insurance partner to review your life or long term care coverages Discover how to have your 401(k) professionally managed without leaving your company plan Schedule a free second opinion meeting with a More than Money advisor? Call today (610-746-7007) or email (Gene@AskMtM.com) to schedule your time with us.

Gene and Alyssa answered questions and explored important topics: She asks if converting to a Roth IRA is a good idea for her? She asks if the new senior deduction can shelter the interest on I Bonds? She asks if hybrid Long Term Care Insurance policies are still available and a good idea? She discovered her IRA RMDs have not been done correctly.  Now what? Free Second Opinion Meetings Meet with a More than Money advisor to review your entire financial picture or simply project your retirement Meet with our Social Security partner to plan the best S/S strategy for you Meet with our estate planning attorney partner to review your estate plans – if you have any Meet with our insurance partner to review your life or long term care coverages Discover how to have your 401(k) professionally managed without leaving your company plan Schedule a free second opinion meeting with a More than Money advisor? Call today (610-746-7007) or email (Gene@AskMtM.com) to schedule your time with us.

It's Q&A Wednesday, and we're tackling the questions that matter most right now—markets at all-time highs despite geopolitical tension, whether this rally can hold, and where investors should be positioned if volatility returns. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff also dive into real-world portfolio decisions: how to think about inflation hedges like I-Bonds and TIPS, strategies around QLACs and RMDs, tax considerations in ETFs, and where to park cash in today's environment. Along the way, we break down emerging risks and opportunities, from private credit exposure and national debt concerns to IPO dynamics and structural market changes. If you're trying to make sense of a market that seems disconnected from headlines while still planning for long-term outcomes, this episode connects the dots. Key topics include: 0:00 - INTRO 0:58 - Kevin Warsh & Iran Blockade 5:03 - Can Markets' Rally Be Maintained? 9:45 - I-Bonds & Tips 12:45 - QLAC's & RMD's 15:30 - What Would You Have Done Differently in Last Downturn? 17:35 - What Tax Benefits are Provided with SPYI ETF? 18:49 - NASDAQ-100 Fast Entry Rule Change 20:22 - Private Investment IPO's 22:05 - When Markets Pull Back, to what sectors will money rotate? 23:34 - What is the Private Credit Risk to Insurance Companies? 25:25 - What is the future impact of the National Debt? 28:40 - Space-X IPO 29:35 - Auto-callable Growth ETF's 36:01 - What Vehicles are Used for Cash Positions? 38:14 - Why is S&P at All-time Highs w Hormuz Strait Still Closed? ------- Do you enjoy our content? Rate us on Google: https://bit.ly/4b9JtEo ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/yFe9x3vjJn0 ------- REGISTER for our next Candid Coffee, Saturday, May 16: "Financial Organization Made Simple:" https://streamyard.com/watch/SA6aj2aMdMhf -------- Watch our previous show, "Financial Illiteracy: Too Big to Ignore" https://youtube.com/live/jAHYTG9JFDg ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Buy the Dip or Wait?" is here: https://youtu.be/70nOJWV4YDI ------- Resources Mentioned in Today's Show: "Short Covering Rally Or Is The Bull Market Back?" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/short-covering-rally-or-correction-over/ "Market Lesson: Why Panic Is A Costly Mistake" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/market-lesson-dont-waste-being-bailed-out/ ------- Download Lance's Latest e-book, "Laws of Money & Wealth:"https://realinvestmentadvice.com/ria-e-guide-library/ -------- 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/ #StockMarket #BuyTheDip #MarketOutlook #TradingStrategy #Investing #FinancialPlanning #Retirement #MarketAnalysis

It's Q&A Wednesday, and we're tackling the questions that matter most right now—markets at all-time highs despite geopolitical tension, whether this rally can hold, and where investors should be positioned if volatility returns. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff also dive into real-world portfolio decisions: how to think about inflation hedges like I-Bonds and TIPS, strategies around QLACs and RMDs, tax considerations in ETFs, and where to park cash in today's environment. Along the way, we break down emerging risks and opportunities, from private credit exposure and national debt concerns to IPO dynamics and structural market changes. If you're trying to make sense of a market that seems disconnected from headlines while still planning for long-term outcomes, this episode connects the dots. Key topics include: 0:00 - INTRO 0:58 - Kevin Warsh & Iran Blockade 5:03 - Can Markets' Rally Be Maintained? 9:45 - I-Bonds & Tips 12:45 - QLAC's & RMD's 15:30 - What Would You Have Done Differently in Last Downturn? 17:35 - What Tax Benefits are Provided with SPYI ETF? 18:49 - NASDAQ-100 Fast Entry Rule Change 20:22 - Private Investment IPO's 22:05 - When Markets Pull Back, to what sectors will money rotate? 23:34 - What is the Private Credit Risk to Insurance Companies? 25:25 - What is the future impact of the National Debt? 28:40 - Space-X IPO 29:35 - Auto-callable Growth ETF's 36:01 - What Vehicles are Used for Cash Positions? 38:14 - Why is S&P at All-time Highs w Hormuz Strait Still Closed? ------- Do you enjoy our content? Rate us on Google: https://bit.ly/4b9JtEo ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/yFe9x3vjJn0 ------- REGISTER for our next Candid Coffee, Saturday, May 16: "Financial Organization Made Simple:" https://streamyard.com/watch/SA6aj2aMdMhf -------- Watch our previous show, "Financial Illiteracy: Too Big to Ignore" https://youtube.com/live/jAHYTG9JFDg ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Buy the Dip or Wait?" is here: https://youtu.be/70nOJWV4YDI ------- Resources Mentioned in Today's Show: "Short Covering Rally Or Is The Bull Market Back?" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/short-covering-rally-or-correction-over/ "Market Lesson: Why Panic Is A Costly Mistake" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/market-lesson-dont-waste-being-bailed-out/ ------- Download Lance's Latest e-book, "Laws of Money & Wealth:"https://realinvestmentadvice.com/ria-e-guide-library/ -------- 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/ #StockMarket #BuyTheDip #MarketOutlook #TradingStrategy #Investing #FinancialPlanning #Retirement #MarketAnalysis

High inflation, stock market jitters give I Bonds new spark Michigan AG Dana Nessel slams regulators over rising utility costs

Gene and Alyssa answered questions and explored important topics: He asks what's the best approach to liquidating EE and I Bonds? He asks how to know when it makes sense to refinance a 6.75% mortgage? She asks how to handle cash gifts to her daughter so she doesn't make big mistakes? She asks if her husband's vacation pay can be invested in an IRA? Free Second Opinion Meetings Meet with a More than Money advisor to review your entire financial picture or simply project your retirement Meet with our Social Security partner to plan the best S/S strategy for you Meet with our estate planning attorney partner to review your estate plans – if you have any Meet with our insurance partner to review your life or long term care coverages Discover how to have your 401(k) professionally managed without leaving your company plan Schedule a free second opinion meeting with a More than Money advisor? Call today (610-746-7007) or email (Gene@AskMtM.com) to schedule your time with us.

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security claiming strategies, IRMAA income adjustments, a listener PSA on the Roth five-year rule, conduit trusts for minor IRA beneficiaries and I-Bond tax reporting, and an inherited IRA passing through a trust. (10:30) George asks about the Social Security “January Rule” and whether claiming in December 2027 or January 2028 would capture the most delayed retirement credits after reaching full retirement age in May 2027. (21:00) A listener who retired early and has been performing Roth conversions asks whether he can also file an SSA-44 based on his wife’s upcoming reduction in work income, even though his conversions have been elevating their household MAGI. (31:00) The guys review a listener PSA clarifying that the fifth year of the Roth five-year rule must be completed entirely—not merely begun—before the holding period is satisfied. (39:45) Jim and Chris take a two-part question on how conduit trusts handle IRA distributions inherited by minor children, and whether the annual interest-reporting election used for EE bonds can also apply to I-Bonds. (1:06:00) A listener whose father-in-law named a trust as the IRA beneficiary — rather than the daughters directly — is getting conflicting advice on whether the IRA funds must be taken immediately or if they can spread the distributions — and the taxes — over five years. The post Social Security, 5-year Rule, Conduit Trusts, Inherited IRAs: Q&A #2614 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Chris is joined by Jake Turner to discuss listener emails on tax filing for mega backdoor Roth contributions, a listener PSA on health insurance premiums, I Bond redemption timing, lowering RMD pressure, and Roth conversions. (6:30) George asks whether leaving a 1099-R off a return after after-tax 401(k) money was immediately converted to Roth means an amended return is needed or whether the IRS will simply follow up. (12:15) A listener asks whether HSA funds can be used pre-tax to pay fully self-funded health insurance premiums and requests a listener PSA if that treatment is allowed. (17:30) The guys are asked how to evaluate redeeming high fixed-rate I Bonds over several years versus waiting until maturity and risking a large one-year tax bill and IRMAA hit. (30:45) Jim and Chris hear from a widowed listener looking for ways to reduce future RMDs and IRMAA without using Roth conversions or QCDs. (47:45) Another listener asks whether doing very large Roth conversions over a few years could make more sense than staying within lower tax brackets over a longer period. The post Tax Filing, Health Insurance, iBonds, RMDs, Roth Conversions: Q&A #2611 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Steve Laipply of BlackRock (BLK) discusses their plans to expand their $52B iShares iBonds ETF franchise. Investors are looking past volatility in the bonds sector and are still piling in, he says. He explains the 9 new defined maturity bond funds they're launching and the demand niches they cover. iBond ETFs are an “efficient” way to “ladder” within the fixed-income field, he argues. Steve lists some of the ETFs seeing the biggest flows so far in 2026.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

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Questions? Comments?Wall Street is pitching “fixed-maturity ETFs” as the perfect solution for retirees who want certainty, income, and peace of mind—but are they actually solving a problem that already has simpler answers? In this episode, Don and Tom break down what bonds and CDs really do, why fixed-maturity funds are being pushed so hard right now, and how fees quietly eat away at the promised benefits. Along the way, they explain the real role of bonds in a portfolio, why chasing yield is a trap, and how diversification and simplicity still beat clever packaging. Listener questions tackle fiduciary responsibility in 401(k) plans, loaded mutual funds, and how much international exposure makes sense in retirement.0:04 New year opener, time anxiety, and refusing to acknowledge large numbers1:05 What a bond actually is—and what it guarantees (and doesn't)1:54 CDs vs. bonds: fixed maturity products that already work2:37 Why Wall Street suddenly “needs” fixed-maturity ETFs3:22 BulletShares, yields, and the quiet problem of fund expenses4:45 Larry Swedroe's blunt answer: skip the fund, buy the bonds5:24 Yield fixation and how investors ignore cost and complexity6:05 When fixed-maturity ETFs might make sense—and when they don't7:14 I-Bonds, TreasuryDirect, and Don's practical reality check7:48 A simple solution: total bond fund plus a CD ladder8:28 Why fixed maturity doesn't mean fixed safety10:09 Expense ratios compared: broad bond funds vs. sliced products10:35 The real purpose of bonds in a portfolio12:04 Putting 2022's bond losses in proper historical context12:58 Eugene Fama on Wall Street “innovation”13:20 Listener question: fiduciary responsibility in a 401(k) plan16:30 Listener question: A-shares, B-shares, loads, and advisor honesty19:14 Why high fund expenses hurt more than exit fees20:52 Listener question: international exposure in retirement portfolios22:18 Practical global diversification without precision theater23:02 Why Don is flexible on allocations—but not on insurance sales23:22 How to send in questions and closing banterLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wall Street is pitching “fixed-maturity ETFs” as the perfect solution for retirees who want certainty, income, and peace of mind—but are they actually solving a problem that already has simpler answers? In this episode, Don and Tom break down what bonds and CDs really do, why fixed-maturity funds are being pushed so hard right now, and how fees quietly eat away at the promised benefits. Along the way, they explain the real role of bonds in a portfolio, why chasing yield is a trap, and how diversification and simplicity still beat clever packaging. Listener questions tackle fiduciary responsibility in 401(k) plans, loaded mutual funds, and how much international exposure makes sense in retirement. 0:04 New year opener, time anxiety, and refusing to acknowledge large numbers 1:05 What a bond actually is—and what it guarantees (and doesn't) 1:54 CDs vs. bonds: fixed maturity products that already work 2:37 Why Wall Street suddenly “needs” fixed-maturity ETFs 3:22 BulletShares, yields, and the quiet problem of fund expenses 4:45 Larry Swedroe's blunt answer: skip the fund, buy the bonds 5:24 Yield fixation and how investors ignore cost and complexity 6:05 When fixed-maturity ETFs might make sense—and when they don't 7:14 I-Bonds, TreasuryDirect, and Don's practical reality check 7:48 A simple solution: total bond fund plus a CD ladder 8:28 Why fixed maturity doesn't mean fixed safety 10:09 Expense ratios compared: broad bond funds vs. sliced products 10:35 The real purpose of bonds in a portfolio 12:04 Putting 2022's bond losses in proper historical context 12:58 Eugene Fama on Wall Street “innovation” 13:20 Listener question: fiduciary responsibility in a 401(k) plan 16:30 Listener question: A-shares, B-shares, loads, and advisor honesty 19:14 Why high fund expenses hurt more than exit fees 20:52 Listener question: international exposure in retirement portfolios 22:18 Practical global diversification without precision theater 23:02 Why Don is flexible on allocations—but not on insurance sales 23:22 How to send in questions and closing banter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every January, millions of people set fresh goals: eat healthier, exercise more, or get their finances in better shape. These are good and worthy aims. Yet studies consistently show that most resolutions fade within a few weeks.So if this is the year you want to steward money more wisely—get out of debt, save consistently, or live with greater margin—what actually helps habits last beyond January?The answer isn't more motivation. It's a better foundation.Why Good Intentions Aren't EnoughResolutions often fail for predictable reasons. We set goals that are vague or unrealistic. We don't connect them to a meaningful “why.” Or we jump in without a system to support change. When life gets busy or discouraging—as it always does—old habits quickly take over.If you've ever tried to stick to a spending plan, curb impulse purchases, or make steady progress on debt, you know those difficult moments will come. Lasting change doesn't happen by hoping harder. It happens when old patterns are replaced with new, intentional habits.The Power of a PlanOne of the most common reasons financial resolutions fail is simple: we try to change without a plan. But you can't hope your way into better money habits.A spending plan turns good intentions into clear, practical choices. It gives your money direction and helps automate progress so your goals become part of everyday life—not just something you think about when motivation is high.More than that, a plan allows you to steward what God has entrusted to you with purpose and clarity, rather than relying on willpower alone.Accountability Makes Progress StickWe were never meant to pursue growth in isolation. Accountability strengthens resolve and keeps discouragement from becoming defeat.Invite a trusted friend to check in with you regularly. Make it a family goal to reduce spending or save consistently. Celebrate wins together—and when you fall short, don't quit. Reset and keep going.Stewardship is a journey, not a single moment of success.Willpower Isn't Enough—You Need God's StrengthEven with a solid plan, many people still struggle to keep their resolutions. Often, it's because they're trying to do it all in their own strength.Lasting change requires spiritual power, not just discipline. Scripture reminds us of this truth:“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” — Hebrews 12:11New habits often feel uncomfortable at first. A budget can feel restrictive. Cutting back can feel frustrating. Saying no to impulse purchases can feel like a sacrifice. But God promises that discipline rooted in faith produces something beautiful over time—peace, stability, and a life aligned with His wisdom.That's why prayer matters. Ask God to reshape your desires, guide your decisions, and strengthen you when the novelty wears off. If you're married, pray together, inviting the Lord to give you unity as you pursue shared financial goals.Build S.M.A.R.T. Financial GoalsOnce your plans are grounded in prayer, structure matters. One of the most effective ways to build that structure is by setting S.M.A.R.T. financial goals—goals that are:SpecificDon't say, “I want to save more.” Say, “I will save $100 each month.” Clear goals are easier to follow.MeasurableTracking progress keeps you motivated. Seeing balances change and debt shrink builds momentum.AchievableDon't expect to undo years of financial strain in a few weeks. Small wins compound over time—and they prevent discouragement.RealisticDream boldly, but plan honestly. Your goals should reflect your actual income and expenses—not depend on debt to fill the gaps.TimelyEvery goal needs a timeframe. Whether you're saving, paying down debt, or building margin, set milestones and review your plan regularly to adjust and keep moving forward.A Better Measure of SuccessAs you set financial goals for the new year, remember that every number tells a story—about God's provision, your heart's priorities, and the opportunities He gives you to bless others.Success isn't measured by how much you accumulate, but by how clearly your finances point to Jesus as your ultimate treasure.If you'd like help building habits that last, the FaithFi app is designed to help you create a plan, track progress, and stay encouraged along the way. You can find it in your app store or visit FaithFi.com to learn more.Faithful stewardship isn't about perfection—it's about steady, surrendered steps forward.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:A credit card company is suing a family member over about $12,000 in debt. His wages are now being garnished, and he's worried about losing his home and damaging his credit. His wife ran up the debt without his knowledge. Is there any advice I can give him? Would filing for bankruptcy stop the wage garnishment, or is it too late since the case is already in court?I set up a TreasuryDirect account, but can't figure out how to convert my paper I Bonds to electronic form. The website isn't clear about how to add them. What steps do I need to take to convert them?My wife and I just turned 64, and both work at the same Christian school. We have an eight-year-old, and our employer offers a family health plan that covers all of us. As we approach Medicare age, do we have to leave the family plan? What do we need to do about enrolling in Medicare, and how does it affect our child's coverage?I've used your financial small-group curriculum before. Do you currently offer any small-group resources or curriculum? If so, what would you recommend?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)TreasuryDirect.gov | Converting Paper Bonds to Electronic BondsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Questions? Comments?This episode dismantles the idea that successful investing comes from finding the next hot thing. Instead, Don and Tom argue that good portfolios are built by eliminating what doesn't belong: actively managed funds, sector ETFs, alternatives, high-yield bonds, gold, and other distractions that add complexity without purpose. Drawing on a Morningstar column by Amy Arnott, they reinforce that most investing mistakes come from chasing performance rather than embracing simplicity and discipline. The show also tackles listener questions on retirement “bucket” strategies, rebalancing timing, Dimensional fund structure, and annuities—emphasizing that bonds exist for stability, cash should be limited and intentional, and any strategy must be personal, rules-based, and boring enough to actually work.0:04 Opening banter, Apple censoring Tom's name, and the beige pudding world1:12 Bitcoin critics, one-star reviews, and a bad 2025 for crypto2:03 Core idea: good investing is about elimination, not prediction2:56 Amy Arnott and the case against active management4:07 Why past winners usually become future losers5:28 REITs, once useful, now mostly redundant6:01 Sector funds as performance-chasing traps8:19 Alternatives, I Bonds, and junk bonds—complexity without payoff10:04 Bonds explained properly: stability, not income or excitement11:14 Gold (and Bitcoin) as non-productive speculation13:21 Simplify first and portfolios become easier—and calmer15:05 Retirement bucket strategy: where it helps and where it hurts18:48 Cash as an emergency tool, not a long-term holding21:04 MYGA annuities, safety trade-offs, and insurer risk29:04 Insurance failures as cautionary history31:04 DFAW explained: Core Equity 1 vs Core Equity 235:53 Rebalancing discipline: timing beats tinkering39:11 Final reminder: stop watching your portfolio so muchLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode dismantles the idea that successful investing comes from finding the next hot thing. Instead, Don and Tom argue that good portfolios are built by eliminating what doesn't belong: actively managed funds, sector ETFs, alternatives, high-yield bonds, gold, and other distractions that add complexity without purpose. Drawing on a Morningstar column by Amy Arnott, they reinforce that most investing mistakes come from chasing performance rather than embracing simplicity and discipline. The show also tackles listener questions on retirement “bucket” strategies, rebalancing timing, Dimensional fund structure, and annuities—emphasizing that bonds exist for stability, cash should be limited and intentional, and any strategy must be personal, rules-based, and boring enough to actually work. 0:04 Opening banter, Apple censoring Tom's name, and the beige pudding world 1:12 Bitcoin critics, one-star reviews, and a bad 2025 for crypto 2:03 Core idea: good investing is about elimination, not prediction 2:56 Amy Arnott and the case against active management 4:07 Why past winners usually become future losers 5:28 REITs, once useful, now mostly redundant 6:01 Sector funds as performance-chasing traps 8:19 Alternatives, I Bonds, and junk bonds—complexity without payoff 10:04 Bonds explained properly: stability, not income or excitement 11:14 Gold (and Bitcoin) as non-productive speculation 13:21 Simplify first and portfolios become easier—and calmer 15:05 Retirement bucket strategy: where it helps and where it hurts 18:48 Cash as an emergency tool, not a long-term holding 21:04 MYGA annuities, safety trade-offs, and insurer risk 29:04 Insurance failures as cautionary history 31:04 DFAW explained: Core Equity 1 vs Core Equity 2 35:53 Rebalancing discipline: timing beats tinkering 39:11 Final reminder: stop watching your portfolio so much Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, The Annuity Man and Michael Finke discuss:  Annuities are more attractive today  Protecting your future lifestyle  Cutting little slices from the birthday cake There's no perfect product to solve for inflation   Key Takeaways:  At the time of this episode's taping, near-retirees can lock in 5.2% on five-year MYGAs for the next five years; however, it may go up or down.  When buying an annuity, you're buying yourself a minimum standard of living forever, no matter how long you live. You have to choose if you want to shoulder the risk or transfer it. Your future lifestyle is at stake.  It's not going to be easy, but you must first recognize that you're not going to live forever. You have to decide how you could spread out your savings to accommodate your lifestyle until you die, or if you want to spend more money to have less worry.  If you can be more flexible, then inflation's impact won't be that big of a deal. Also, there's no perfect product to solve for inflation. There are options that could help you have some stability through it, like Social Security and I Bonds.    "If we model out 1000 different potential retirements, the ones who will have an annuity will, on average, be happier, but the ones with an investment portfolio might have a slightly higher probability of success. But there is no information about what failure means." —  Michael Finke    Connect With Michael Finke: Website: http://www.michaelfinke.com/  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-finke-8134808/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mfinke  Twitter: https://twitter.com/FinkeonFinance    Connect with The Annuity Man:  Website: http://theannuityman.com/  Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com  Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g  Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!

iBonds, Bonität, Laufzeit – wie passt das alles zusammen? Gemeinsam mit Matthias Schmitt spricht Tobias Kramer über einen der spannendsten Trends im Rentenmarkt: Laufzeiten-ETF von iShares – und warum sie für viele Anleger sinnvoller sein könnten als Einzelanleihen.

Quint and Logan discuss if I Bonds are still a good investment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian dive into a temporary trade truce between the U.S. and China and what it means for investors. Plus, I Bonds are back in the spotlight—should you care? And Netflix announces a 10-for-1 stock split: is it a smart buy or just smoke and mirrors? Later, they explore the real costs—and surprises—of downsizing your home in retirement, discuss behavioral investing blind spots that could derail your financial plan, and uncover a little-known Social Security benefit for parents over 62 raising children under 18.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget better for group trips and explore if savings bonds still deserve a spot in your long-term investment plan. How do you plan a trip with friends without blowing your budget — or your relationships? Are savings bonds a smart way to invest in your kids' future? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola discuss the emotional and financial dynamics of group travel and walk through what it really takes to invest in savings bonds for education and life goals. They begin with a discussion of traveling with friends, with tips and tricks on setting clear expectations, budgeting according to your values, and managing financial boundaries. Smart Travel podcast hosts Sally French and Meghan Coyle join Sean and Elizabeth to share their insider tips for group travel, including itinerary planning, respecting different budgets, and balancing social time with solitude. Then, investing Nerd Sam Taube joins Sean and Elizabeth to break down the pros and cons of savings bonds, including Series EE, I Bonds, treasury bonds, and more. They discuss tax implications, bond yield mechanics, and how to incorporate bonds into a long-term investing strategy. 8 Best Online Brokers for Bonds: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/brokers-for-bonds Planning your next vacation? Before you budget, learn how to get the most out of your travel dollars by following our Smart Travel podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/FvKHzKit   Want us to review your budget? Fill out this form — completely anonymously if you want — and we might feature your budget in a future segment! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScK53yAufsc4v5UpghhVfxtk2MoyooHzlSIRBnRxUPl3hKBig/viewform?usp=header In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: traveling with friends, how to budget for group trips, friendship and money, planning trips with friends, financial boundaries while traveling, group vacation budgeting, how to say no to expensive trips, budget travel tips with friends, post vacation financial regret, peer pressure spending on vacation, savings bonds, series EE bonds, I bonds, treasury bonds vs savings bonds, when to buy savings bonds, how to cash in savings bonds, best bonds for education savings, bond yield explained, fixed income investments, muni bonds, corporate bonds, bond diversification strategy, investing in bonds for kids, bonds vs 529 plan, bond interest rates, bond tax benefits, how to buy savings bonds online, treasury direct account, cashing paper savings bonds, bond market trends, and how bonds fit in a retirement portfolio. To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Retire Sooner Podcast, Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase explore the role of dry powder assets in retirement planning and revisit “FOMO Freddie”—a cautionary character representing the risks of chasing investment trends without a long-term strategy.

Looking for smart, low-risk places to grow your money in 2025? In this episode, we explore the best safe investment strategies available today, including high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and U.S. I Bonds.o Learn the key differences between savings and investment optionso Understand how much you can earn with a $10,000 investmento Discover which accounts are liquid, flexible, and FDIC-insuredo See how to open each account and avoid penaltieso Compare real rates from trusted banks and platformso Make informed decisions about where to park your money nextIf you're trying to protect your principal but still earn a solid return, this episode is made for you. You'll get exact math, growth examples, and a strategy to match your financial goals with the right safe investment option.Subscribe to the channel for more empowering content on personal finance, investing, and self-improvement. Don't miss out on the opportunity to unlock your true financial potential and live a life of abundance. It's time to invest in yourself and create the future you deserve!Articles to Reference:https://www.treasurydirect.gov/savings-bonds/i-bonds/i-bonds-interest-rates/https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/cds/best-cd-rates/https://www.bankrate.com/banking/savings/best-high-yield-interests-savings-accounts/https://www.bankrate.com/banking/money-market/rates/**Support the Stream By Shopping at Our Store** Buy Your Financial Mirror Gear: https://www.thefinancialmirror.org/shop YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefinancialmirrorRumble: https://rumble.com/TheFinancialMirrorFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefinancialmirr0rX: https://twitter.com/financialmirr0rInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefinancialmirror/Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/thefinancialmirror#lowriskinvestments #bestinvestments2025 #safeinvesting #moneytips #cdrates #highyieldsavings #ibonds #moneymarketaccount #financialplanning #growyourmoney

Today, learn more about I-Bonds. Are they still worth buying? Clark explains how I-Bonds work and why they can be a solid part of your saving strategy. Also, the tariff news keeps coming, with a temporary reprieve on goods from China now in effect. Clark discusses what this will mean for consumers and merchants moving forward. Series I Savings Bonds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Tariff Reprieve: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Do Not Use Smartwatches or Smart Rings to Measure Blood Glucose Levels: FDA Safety Communication Dexcom G7 CGM and Stelo Glucose Biosensor Subaru Ascent SUVs Recalled. Automaker Advises Owners to Park Outside and Away From Structures. The Center For Auto Safety How Much Money Do I Need in My Emergency Fund? HSA Store - Learning Center What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed:  Should you purchase I Bonds?  Treasuries are as safe as it gets  Five places to put your money  Inflation is personal    Key Takeaways:  Purchasing I Bonds is a no-brainer. Go to treasurydirect.gov to buy direct from the treasury I Bonds.  Treasuries are as safe as it gets because they can tax us and confiscate our money to pay them off, and that would happen if we needed to do that. The downside to I Bonds is that they don't allow you to put as much money in them.  There are only five legitimate places to put your money that protects the principal and that you're not going to lose a dime, and you're going to get an interest rate. Those five are money markets, CDs, fixed-rate annuities - also called MYGAs, treasuries, and Triple A-Triple A insured municipal bonds. Inflation is personal. Don't get too caught up on inflation because most people in retirement will not be affected that much by it. Ask yourself if you're being affected by it, or are you overplanning?    "If it's a no-brainer, then it's a no-brainer, and I-Bonds are the ultimate no-brainer. You can do it every year, so why not put it on your calendar and do it every year? It just makes sense. " —  Stan The Annuity Man.   Connect with The Annuity Man:  Website: http://theannuityman.com/  Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com  Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g  Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator! 

Today we are getting into some investing questions. We start off with a discussion around iBonds and if they are still a worth while investment or if it might be time to let them go. We also discuss ASC investment and buffer assets and what those both are. We talk about how to make asset allocation decisions when you have access to some unique investments and wrap up with a discussion around stock performance when you have a very long investing time horizon. Laurel Road is committed to serving the financial needs of doctors. We want to help make your money work both harder and smarter, with A Laurel Road High Yield Savings account. Build your savings with highly competitive rates, no minimum balance to open, and no monthly maintenance fees. Whether you're saving for an emergency fund or planning your next big purchase, you can keep building your savings and access your funds whenever you need them. For terms and conditions, please visit https://LaurelRoad.com/WCI Laurel Road is a brand of KeyBank N.A. Member FDIC. Disclosures: Laurel Road is a brand of KeyBank N.A. All products are offered by KeyBank N.A. Member FDIC. ©2024 KeyCorp® All Rights Reserved. The White Coat Investor has been helping doctors with their money since 2011. Our free financial planning resource covers a variety of topics from doctor mortgage loans and refinancing medical school loans to physician disability insurance and malpractice insurance. Learn about loan refinancing or consolidation, explore new investment strategies, and discover loan programs specifically aimed at helping doctors. If you're a high-income professional and ready to get a "fair shake" on Wall Street, The White Coat Investor is for you! Main Website: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com  YouTube: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/youtube  Student Loan Advice: https://studentloanadvice.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCInvestor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/whitecoatinvestor  Online Courses: https://whitecoatinvestor.teachable.com  Newsletter: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/free-monthly-newsletter 

Today Dr. Dahle Dr. Dahle is answering your questions off the speakpipe. We talk about dynasty 529s, UTMAs and the tax benefits of contributing to them, we explain tax gain harvesting and I Bonds within a 529. We answer a question about HSAs and discuss how to go about changing you defined benefit plan administrator if you are not happy with them.  Today's episode is brought to you by SoFi, helping medical professionals like us bank, borrow, and invest to achieve financial wellness. SoFi offers up to 4.6% APY on their savings accounts, as well as an investment platform, financial planning, and student loan refinancing…featuring an exclusive rate discount for med professionals and $100/month payments for residents. Check out all that SoFi offers at https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/Sofi *Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS 696891. Advisory services by SoFi Wealth LLC. The brokerage product is offered by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investing comes with risk including risk of loss. Additional terms and conditions may apply. The White Coat Investor has been helping doctors with their money since 2011. Our free financial planning resource covers a variety of topics from doctor mortgage loans and refinancing medical school loans to physician disability insurance and malpractice insurance. Learn about loan refinancing or consolidation, explore new investment strategies, and discover loan programs specifically aimed at helping doctors. If you're a high-income professional and ready to get a "fair shake" on Wall Street, The White Coat Investor is for you! Main Website: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com  YouTube: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/youtube  Student Loan Advice: https://studentloanadvice.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCInvestor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/whitecoatinvestor  Online Courses: https://whitecoatinvestor.teachable.com  Newsletter: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/free-monthly-newsletter 

Questions? Comments?In today's Friday Q&A:0:27 Welcome to Q&A Day3:30 I-Bonds and Inflation Protection6:54 403B Resources and Options10:41 TSP Withdrawal Strategies13:39 Vanguard Fee Changes17:15 Mortgage Recasting DilemmaLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's Friday Q&A: 0:27 Welcome to Q&A Day 3:30 I-Bonds and Inflation Protection 6:54 403B Resources and Options 10:41 TSP Withdrawal Strategies 13:39 Vanguard Fee Changes 17:15 Mortgage Recasting Dilemma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Since the earnings rate on I Bonds changes every six months - Clark has updated advice  for savers. Also - Clark's “three favorite children” in the financial world, Vanguard, Schwab and Fidelity, aren't perfect, and he calls them out where needed. At the moment, there's an issue with Fidelity that investors need to know about.  Series I Savings Bonds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fidelity Investments: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Clark's Christmas Kids 2024 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds You Bought Blockbuster I Bonds. Here's What to Do With Them Now. - The WSJ 17 of the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts in November 2024 Best Prepaid Cards: Top Debit Card Alternatives Fidelity And Ex-Advisor Agree to End Lawsuit Over High-Fee Investments How To Open a Roth IRA Fidelity Investments Review: Pros & Cons The Best Places To Buy Hearing Aids (Clark.com) Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Art McPherson and Luke McCarty explore the potential economic impact of Trump's return to the White House, focusing on tax cuts and investment strategies like Roth conversions. They discuss the implications of tax strategies for high earners, the financial decisions of professional athletes, and the current state of I Bonds. They also touch on personal stories related to charity work and concludes with a light-hearted political banter featuring Tim Allen and Richard Karn. For more information visit www.artofmoney.com!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you received an inheritance recently? Or have you been thinking about how to leave one? In this episode, Kevin and Charlie tackle key questions about inheritance, covering everything you need to know—whether you're inheriting or passing on assets. From new legislation to strategies that help both you and your beneficiaries maximize your wealth, this episode will give you a powerful roadmap for navigating the process today and in the future. Take The Pilot Wealth Index to find out if you are on track for retirement! You can find show notes, resources and more at: https://tinyurl.com/mtuc9zev

On this episode of Upticks, Jake and Cory discuss the Kansas City Chiefs' potential for an undefeated season and share a cautionary tale about a million-dollar mistake. They revisit the hype around I-Bonds from 2022 and provide thoughts on what to do with them now. Jake and Cory also emphasize scrutinizing retirement expenses, reveal a surprising link between mood and stock prices, and offer essential tax tips for 2024. Finally, they explore the psychology behind rising lottery ticket prices. Thank you for joining us this week! If you have a topic that you would like Jake and Cory to discuss or debate live on Upticks, please email it directly to me at luke@falconwealthadvisors.com and I'll be sure to ask them to bring it up on the show! Subscribe to our newsletter: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/   Contact us: https://falconwealthadvisors.com/contact.html Order ‘Retiring Right': https://a.co/d/cSglWiC  Upticks features engaging discussions on financial planning and investments, hosted by Jake Falcon, CRPC™. Each episode explores timely conversations on topics like retirement, tax strategies, investment insights, and more. Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode! Falcon Wealth Advisors, based in Kansas City, is a wealth management company with a dedicated team of 19 professionals. We focus on personalized retirement planning and giving our clients a first-class experience. Our approach prioritizes curated stocks and bonds over traditional products, ensuring transparency, control, and minimizing fees. Our clients, primarily working professionals and retirees from across the country, appreciate our commitment to noteworthy service and responsiveness. We foster a collaborative environment, where clients benefit from the knowledge of our entire ensemble team, helping ensure they feel heard and valued along their path to wealth. Connect with us: https://www.falconwealthadvisors.com/         https://www.falconwealthadvisors.com/content.html             Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/FalconWAdvisors/         https://www.instagram.com/falconwadvisors/         https://twitter.com/FalconWAdvisors         https://www.linkedin.com/company/falcon-wealth-advisors/              Connect with Jake Falcon, CRPC™         https://www.facebook.com/jake.falcon.524         https://www.instagram.com/jake_falcon_crpc/?hl=en         https://twitter.com/jakefalconcrpc         https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakefalconfalconwealthadvisors     Third-party links and references are provided solely to share social, cultural and educational information. Any reference in this post to any person, or organization, or activities, products, or services related to such person or organization, or any linkages from this post to the web site of another party, do not constitute or imply the endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of Falcon Wealth Advisors or Hightower Advisors, LLC, or any of its affiliates, employees or contractors acting on their behalf. Hightower Advisors, LLC, do not guarantee the accuracy or safety of any linked site. #retirement #upticks #fwa #retiringright #kansascity #wealthmanagement #financialplanning

#554: The U.S. jobs market hit a surprising speed bump in October, adding just 12,000 new jobs — way below the expected 100,000.  A mix of natural disasters and labor unrest explains the slump. Recent hurricanes in the Southeast wiped out somewhere between 40,000 to 70,000 jobs, while strikes at Boeing and other companies added to the slowdown. Against this backdrop, the Federal Reserve looks ready to cut interest rates next week by 0.25 percent. Meanwhile, gold is having its biggest moment since 1979, but not for reasons you might expect. Central banks, especially in China and India, are loading up on physical gold like never before. Poland's central bank has grabbed 167 tons of gold and wants to keep 20 percent of its reserves in gold — a move that hints at banks preparing for possible global shake-ups. Remember when I-Bonds were the hot ticket in 2022, paying out 9.6 percent? Those glory days are gone. The new rate has dropped to 3.1 percent, making your standard high-yield savings account look pretty good in comparison. In the stock market, it's all about the "Magnificent Seven" — Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta, and Tesla. These tech giants account for 62 percent of all S&P 500 gains over the past year. The other 493 companies aren't doing too shabby either, with profits expected to grow 13 percent next year. As for the upcoming election, both presidential candidates' economic plans would push the federal deficit higher. The Wharton School of Business says Trump's proposals would add $5.8 trillion to the deficit over 10 years, while Harris's would add $1.2 trillion. There's also talk about tariffs that could spark inflation and maybe even kick off a global trade war. Here's the kicker: during the 2016 election, a 24-year-old Sam Bankman-Fried correctly predicted the outcome before anyone else and made $300 million in a single night trading on that information. But by morning, the markets had swung so wildly that he'd lost $600 million.  The lesson? Even if you guess the election right, predicting how markets will react is a whole different ball game — one that you should avoid. Think long-term, buy-and-hold.  Timestamps: Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising run times. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. 0:00 October jobs report falls short 3:42 Fed signals likely 0.25 percent rate cut next week 8:15 Gold prices surge to 45-year high 12:30 China and India lead global gold buying spree 18:45 I-Bond rates plummet from 9.6 to 3.1 percent 24:10 "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks dominate market gains 29:35 US economy outpaces Germany, other G7 nations 35:20 AI's transformative impact on Generation Alpha 42:15 Inflation risks and tariff concerns ahead of election 48:30 US deficit hits 6 percent, tops G7 countries 52:45 Wharton analyzes Harris vs Trump economic plans 58:20 SBF's $600M election night trading disaster Resources Mentioned Wharton's Trump Campaign Economic Analysis: https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2024/8/26/trump-campaign-policy-proposals-2024 Wharton's Harris Campaign Economic Analysis: https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2024/8/26/harris-campaign-policy-proposals-2024 The Economist, Editorial Board Endorsement: https://www.economist.com/in-brief/2024/10/31/why-the-economist-endorses-kamala-harris Bloomberg Endorsement: https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2024-10-31/michael-bloomberg-why-i-m-voting-for-kamala-harris The Financial Times endorsement, which is unfortunately behind a paywall: https://www.ft.com/content/3db1db35-f536-4efc-b463-a1fc98a785b0  For more information, visit the show notes at https://affordanything.com/episode554 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many rules come with exceptions. Perhaps that's nowhere more true than with financial decisions.In most situations, paying off the mortgage and becoming debt-free is the right decision, but it may not be possible for everyone. Harlan Accola joins us today to discuss “red doors” and exceptions to the rule.Harlan Accola is the National Reverse Mortgage Director at Movement Mortgage, an underwriter of Faith & Finance. He is also the author of Home Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement.The Meaning Behind Red DoorsRed doors have rich historical significance. In biblical times, red signified safety and protection, as seen with the Israelites marking their doors during the Passover. In Scottish tradition, a red door symbolized that a home was mortgage-free—a point of pride. Early Americans painted their doors red to signal a place of rest for weary travelers.While red doors symbolize safety and accomplishment, it's important to rethink what safety truly means. Is safety just about paying off your mortgage? Or could it also mean being able to stay in your home, meet your needs, and share your blessings with others as you age?Reverse Mortgages and Financial StewardshipFor many seniors, having a mortgage-free home is a milestone of God's provision. However, a reverse mortgage (HECM) can provide additional safety, especially for those struggling to make ends meet. It allows seniors to draw income from their home equity and stay in their homes while meeting their financial needs.Seniors over 62 have over $13 trillion in home equity—a massive untapped resource. For some, a reverse mortgage could be an answer to prayer, helping cover bills and providing peace of mind. Reverse mortgages offer a unique opportunity to be good stewards of the resources God has provided, ensuring we can enjoy our homes and meet our needs in retirement.To determine if a reverse mortgage is the right solution for your situation, visit Movement.com/Faith.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I am 61 years old and want to file for Social Security at 62. However, I have so much credit card and loan debt that I'm considering filing for bankruptcy, and I would like to know your take. I looked up your credit counseling thing, but they can't service one of my loans, so I didn't go any further with them.We sold a property in owner finance the property. When do we report the taxes on it? And is it a long-term capital gain? I had it for 15 years and lived in it some, but it wasn't our primary residence.I wanted to know about I-Bonds and the interest rate they're paying currently. The last I heard, you can only buy them through a website. I'm 83 and don't know much about computers. Is there a number I can call?I'm struggling to tithe because my husband and I disagree with how the church spends the money. We feel like we're the only ones who disagree, and it's difficult writing out that tithe check when we don't agree with the financial decisions. We're wondering if we're wrong or if the church is wrong. We don't want to withhold our tithe but feel the money could be spent much better.Resources Mentioned:Movement MortgageTreasuryDirect.govChristian Credit CounselorsLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

In this episode: travel rewards, IRA conversions, working with FAFSA, health insurance, and the FI journey. This week we are joined by community member and listener Connie to discuss the beginning of her FI journey, and the transformative steps she's taken to further maximize her journey for her and her family. With so many resources available to learn and assist you while on the path to FI, the influx of information may seem overwhelming. Knowing how to organize the information will allow you to utilize the hacks and tricks that take some of the pressure off, and grant the opportunity for you to adapt and create the life you want!  Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Abundo Wealth Advice-Only Network Nectarine Point.me Seats.aero PointsYeah The $100K Glorified Sleepaway Camp | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 386 How To Test Out of College While You're Still In High School | Millionaire Educator | ChooseFI Ep 238 Mailbag: Breaking up with your Advisor, I Bonds, 4% Rule, Accounts for Kids, Roth IRAs | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 447 Find Your Local ChooseFI Group The Courage to Take Action | EconoMe LIVE with Doc G | ChooseFI Ep 488 Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and FI Resources: Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points Emergency Binder: For Your Family's Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI' for 20% off) Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount) Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile

Today, an important update on Inflation Savings Bonds. Clark explains how these bonds work over time and the advantage of owning new Series I Bonds. Also, extra fees have been a topic on the show in recent years. There's a new fee in town making a splash - Clark tells you how to avoid it.  UPDATE - Series I Savings Bonds: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Cancellation & No-Show Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Barrons: Treasury Sets New Rate of 4.28% for I Bonds as Inflation Ebbs 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds The Era of ‘No-Show' Fees Is Here—and It's Going to Cost You - WSJ Should You Stay With Vanguard Despite the New Fee Announcement? NolahMattress - Is It Legal to Sell a Used Mattress? A State-by-State Guide The Best Place To Buy a Mattress How Can I Get Rid of My Old Mattress Cheaply? Thank you for listening today, Clarkies! If you want to be part of our “Clarkie” segment, call 404-981-2071 to leave a comment or story. We may play it during a future episode! Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Was retirement really better in thge past? Have 401k plans been a retirement income benefit or detriment? Might there be a better way to insure a secure retirement income? We also explore the difference in long-term returns between large-cap and small-cap value stocks. Plus, we hear from listeners: Why does the actual income from I-Bonds not match the stated rate? Can income from a court settlement from a stock in an IRA be transferred into the IRA? Is it better to take retirement income from investments annually, monthly, or as needed? Looking for a quick portfolio review? Is it okay to start spending extra money in retirement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Questions? Comments?Was retirement really better in thge past? Have 401k plans been a retirement income benefit or detriment? Might there be a better way to insure a secure retirement income? We also explore the difference in long-term returns between large-cap and small-cap value stocks. Plus, we hear from listeners:Why does the actual income from I-Bonds not match the stated rate?Can income from a court settlement from a stock in an IRA be transferred into the IRA?Is it better to take retirement income from investments annually, monthly, or as needed?Looking for a quick portfolio review?Is it okay to start spending extra money in retirement?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of Ask KT and Suze Anything, Suze answers questions about using a legal separation to protect one's assets, paper I Bonds, plus a “Can I Afford It?” quizzy and so much more! Get your savings going with Alliant Credit Union: https://bit.ly/3rg0Yio Get Suze's special offers for podcast listeners at suzeorman.com/offer Join Suze's Women & Money Community for FREE and ASK SUZE your questions which may just end up on her podcast! To ask Suze a question, download the app by following one of these links: CLICK HERE FOR APPLE: https://apple.co/2KcAHbH CLICK HERE FOR GOOGLE PLAY: https://bit.ly/3curfMISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've recently sold I Bonds and/or receive 1099s, Clark has an important tax tip for you. Also today - Clark discusses some employment cross currents in play now to keep in mind as you survey the job market, and for employers to be aware of as they seek workers. I Bond Tax Tip: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 What Workers Want: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Should You Sell Your I Bonds Right Now? Making Money on I Bonds Was Easy. The Tax Paperwork Isn't. - The Wall Street Journal. How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How getting a second opinion can stop you being ripped off — The Conversation Americans want more control over when they work, not just where  Employee salary expectations are evolving — and escalating a threat for businesses How to find a job you'll actually like Workers are spending a lot of money returning to the office — and it's raising turnover risks [The Washington Post] The best times to book cheap flights for every vacation season Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've all heard it time and again from the world's biggest success stories: They worked crazy hours, gave up their friendships, and kept their nose to the grind for years before they got their big break. What are they telling us?  Essentially, you'll never succeed unless you're willing to give up everything else to get there, and there's no way to avoid burnout. In other words, suffering is what leads to success. But we've also seen that this mentality can cause burnout, depression, or stepping away from a career that you thought you loved.  Ali Abdaal, author of “Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You,” knows exactly what this feels like. While working as a doctor, he was doing everything he could to keep up, but found himself miserable and completely burned out at the end of every workday. He decided to change his life and master productivity — today, he's one of the world's most followed productivity experts. Listen in to hear his advice on how we can use “power, people, and play” to avoid burnout, and even make everyday tasks more fun.  In Mailbag, we hear from a listener who's looking for advice on how to recover mentally and emotionally after being laid off, and we check in with someone who bought iBonds in the early 2000s and is wondering if she can use them to pay for higher education. In our money tip of the week, what NOT to do with the money if you get a bonus or a raise at work this year.  Join us! Snag all the latest episodes, savvy budgeting tips, investing advice and even giveaways via the HerMoney Newsletter at Hermoney.com/subscribe! The HerMoney with Jean Chatzky podcast is sponsored by Edelman Financial Engines. The podcast team and its host are neither employees nor clients of EFE, however, the show does receive fixed compensation and is a paid endorser and therefore has an incentive to endorse EFE and its planners. To learn more about the sponsorship, please visit PlanEFE.com/HerMoney. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast, and to learn more about Airwave, head to www.airwavemedia.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some reports estimate overall food waste at near 40%! That's MONEY tossed away! There's a simple way to help you SAVE MORE food & thus - stretch your grocery dollars. Also, Clark discusses options for those with I Bonds purchased at inflation's peak, now with diminishing returns, and why I Bonds are still a good deal now.   Reduce Food Waste: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 I Bond Strategy: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: [The Washington Post] This fridge hack can slash your food waste Is a Costco Membership Worth It? (Pros and Cons From 10 Readers) Your Guide to DIY Home Security Systems T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: 5 Things To Know Before You Sign Up How to Buy a Used Car in 7 Steps Is It A Good Time To Cash In Your I Bonds? 6 Things To Know About Series I Savings Bonds Vehicle History Report Scam: If You're Selling, Listen Up 7 Things To Know Before You Use Zelle 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them!) Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are answering your questions off the SpeakPipe. We talk about structured notes, asset protection, I Bonds, Cash Balance funds, and fees for different investments. We also talk about the importance of keeping your personal information and passwords safe from identity theft. As healthcare evolves, it means greater opportunities for you. You can earn more with locum tenens, plus get flexibility for better work-life balance. The key is to find the right job to meet your individual needs. CompHealth is a leader in the locums industry, and they help you navigate all the options to find the best fit. They have access to thousands of jobs, including telehealth, medical missions, and even permanent placement. You get personalized service from CompHealth, because they place your best interests at the heart of everything they do. Learn more at CompHealth.com or visit them in person at WCICON24 February 5th through 8th in Orlando, Florida. The White Coat Investor has been helping doctors with their money since 2011. Our free financial planning resource covers a variety of topics from doctor mortgage loans and refinancing medical school loans to physician disability insurance and malpractice insurance. Learn about loan refinancing or consolidation, explore new investment strategies, and discover loan programs specifically aimed at helping doctors. If you're a high-income professional and ready to get a "fair shake" on Wall Street, The White Coat Investor is for you! Main Website: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com  YouTube: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/youtube  Student Loan Advice: https://studentloanadvice.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCInvestor  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Subreddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/whitecoatinvestor  Online Courses: https://whitecoatinvestor.teachable.com  Newsletter: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/free-monthly-newsletter 

In this episode: changing your mindset, starting FI at 50, the pros and cons of starting late, and facing your faults. We always say on this show that FI is for everyone, but our guests Becky Heptig and Bill Yount really embody this message. As hosts of the "Catching Up to FI" podcast, Becky and Bill are a fantastic resource for those who have found FI later in life and still would like to give it a go despite the delayed start! While FI looks different for everyone and can be influenced by when you start, we agree with Bill and Becky in saying becoming intentional with your finances is always a positive decision, no matter when you do it in life. Although your path may look different from those who started earlier, you would still be taking steps to better your life inside and around your finances. Perfection isn't the goal, improvement is what we strive for, and a positive step is still a step in the right direction! Becky Heptig & Bill Yount: Website: catchinguptofi.com Podcast: Catching Up to FI Facebook: Catching Up to FI Facebook Group Timestamps: 1:10 - Introduction 4:29 - Changing Your Mindset and Facing Your Faults 14:32 - Taking Late Action 21:34 - Getting Stuck and Overcoming It 24:28 - Starting FI at 50 33:25 - Is It Ever Too Late To Start FI? 40:00 - The Pros and Cons of Starting Late 44:45 - The Growth of Those Catching Up to FI 48:22 - Conclusion Resources Mentioned In Today's Episode: Is It Too Late? | Becky Heptig | ChooseFI Ep. 152 The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement Mailbag: Breaking up with your Advisor, I Bonds, 4% Rule, Accounts for Kids, Roth IRAs | Sean Mullaney | ChooseFI Ep 447 Dave Ramsey JL Collins Subscribe to The FI Weekly! More Helpful Links and Resources: Earn $1,000 in cashback with ChooseFI's 3-card credit card strategy Share FI by sending a friend ChooseFI: Your Blueprint to Financial Independence Keep learning or start a new side hustle with one of our educational courses Commission-Free Investing with M1 Finance