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Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong are concerned there is not being enough attention paid to the collapse of First Brands, why the company found itself in its current mess, and if this is a bigger problem brewing. Luke Kawa (Sherwood News) joins the show to share what is driving the recent market rally. Taiwan rejects U.S. proposal for '50-50′ chip production, says trade talks focused on tariffs.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the different causes of the labor market flattening out. Is Baby Boomer spending the only thing keeping up the economy? What happens to the economy if asset prices are the consumer driver? OpenAI is will be either a trillion dollar company or nothing. Student loan debt is strangling Gen X.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss the release of the JOLTS report that showed job openings slightly exceeded forecasts. How government shutdowns affect the US economy. US economy will only get murkier if key data is delayed in shutdown. Rise of 'accidental landlords' is bad news for investors who bet big on rentals. Exxon to cut 2,000 jobs in global restructuring. Gen X is about to face the biggest Social Security decision.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane explain why your electric keeps rising. Jessica Caldwell, Head of Insights at Edmunds, joins the show to share the Q3 new car sales forecast. Why GM boss Mary Barra is slamming the brakes on lofty EV ambitions. Investors are fretting that the stock market rally is on borrowed time. McDonald's is bringing back Monopoly after a decade.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss why this week's most important data release is the jobs report. Rate cuts might not cure what ails the job market. Recession seems far off. The economy is also far from trouble. Why a small auto parts maker in the MidWest going bankrupt has massive ramifications.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss Walmart's CEO's comments about AI changing literally every job. Corey Adams (Robert Half) joins the show to chat about the company's 2026 salary guide. Debt is fueling the next wave of the AI boom. The fastest-selling cars in America are used EVs.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane disucss why millions of Americans are becoming economically invisibile. Mike Simonsen, Chief Economist at Compass, joins the show to chat about the state of the housing market and where interest rates need to be to get things moving again. Costco tops earnings and revenue estimates as warehouse club gains more members. Starbucks is in a big mess. Paul LaMonica, Barron's, joins the show to chat how O'Reilly Auto Parts set themselves apart from other national autoparts retailers.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss the core inflation rate coming as expected. Trump imposing new tariffs on pharma and big trucks. Will the massive spending on AI ever pay off? How many Americans actually have a financial plan written down?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the White House going all-in on Argentina. It may not work. Intel is seeking an investment from Apple as part of its comeback bid. Amazon agrees to settle US lawsuit that it 'tricked' people into Prime. A diminished Social Security workforce, and its customers, feel the strain. Delta replaces engine units in effor to address toxic-fume surge on planes. Higher electricity prices aren't all good for utilities.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss initial jobless claims tumble for second consecutive week. US economy grew faster than expected in the second quarter. Too many still don't understand the tax ramifications of the Big, Beautiful Bill. CarMax sees unexpected drop in used-car sales. White House to pursue mass firings if government shuts down. How the H1B visa fee could reshape workforces.
Comedian Mark Klein has traveled near and far to sling jokes for nearly 50 years. His parents were proud of him for 12 minutes.Mark is headlining a special benefit show on Thursday, September 24 at The Caravan in Mid-City Mall. All proceeds go to help brother comedian Mike Armstrong, a longtime performer on the comedy circuit, who is now battling cancer.Come laugh with Mark to help Mike!
Comedian Mark Klein has traveled near and far to sling jokes for nearly 50 years. His parents were proud of him for 12 minutes.Mark is headlining a special benefit show on Thursday, September 24 at The Caravan in Mid-City Mall. All proceeds go to help brother comedian Mike Armstrong, a longtime performer on the comedy circuit, who is now battling cancer.Come laugh with Mark to help Mike!(part one of two segments on WHAS Radio)
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti discuss the often asked question if the stock market is overvalued. Miran is contradicting himself on the case for big rate cuts. China floods the world with cheap exports after Trump's tariffs. Nvidia to invest up to $100B in OpenAI. Spirit Airlines furloughing one-third of its flight attendants.
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti discuss how Argentina's Javier Milei lost the markets and is turning to the US. Are H1B visas crucial to American productivity? Stocks are expensive. Does earnings growth mean that doesn't matter? Is the age of value investing over? Regional US casinos cash in as gamblers shun prices Vegas trips.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss inflation being the lesser evil. Many Americans can't buy houses, get jobs, or move in a stuck economy. The rush to return to the office is stalling. Cardboard box demand is slumping. Why that's bad news for the economy. Millennials are stuck in an old and lazy story.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss Trump's $100,000 visa targets a $280B India success story. Will the $100,000 visa help American workers? American colleges are going all out to hold to international students. Why it might be time to repeal the Fed's dual mandate.
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti discuss the Fed losing its independence and what that means for inflation. Why the Fed's recent rate cut might be the only one of 2025 despite predictions. Why the Fed can't ease the government's debt problem. Trade relations with China as Xi and Trump talk TikTok and rare earth materials. Nvidia is walking a tightrope between the US and China.
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti discuss which areas of the country are being hit the hardest by unemployment. Grocery prices have jumped up. Is it actually the grocery stores to blame? Eversource gas customers face 13 percent rate increase this winter. Reasons why getting rid of quarterly reports helps markets and companies. Paul LaMonica ( Barron's) joins the show chat about the recent IPOs including StubHub.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong break down the Fed's rate cut decision and claim of two more possibly coming this year. Powell and the rest of the Fed have no clue how the economy will look next year. US initial jobless claims drop by most in almost four years. How to handle a job market that's worse than it looks. American Express unveils refreshed Platinum card with $895 annual fee.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the recent $5B investment by Nvidia into Intel. Chuck wonders how long till Nvidia just buys up Intel altogether. Huawei unveils AI chip roadmap to challenge Nvidia's lead. Congress has no good excuse to keep trading stocks. Start practicing retirement now. It'll make the switch that much easier. Home Insurance as you know it is doomed. You're not ready.
In this episode, Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane unpack the latest economic headlines shaping markets. From robust retail sales defying slowdown fears to pivotal Federal Reserve updates, we dive deep into what's driving the economy. What's on the table?Retail Sales Surge in August – Consumers keep spending, but is it sustainable?Fed Governor Drama – Appeals Court denies Trump's bid to remove Lisa Cook, while Stephen Miran joins the Fed Board.Lower Rates & Stocks – A quick take on what cheaper borrowing means for equity investors.Fed Strategy – Why the Fed needs to tread carefully and avoid bold promises.Massachusetts' Economic Woes – A closer look at the state's struggles amid national resilience.Tune in for sharp insights and actionable analysis to navigate today's economic landscape. Subscribe now for more! #Economy #FederalReserve #Investing #RetailSales #MarketInsights
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss how the breakeven threshold reveals a more robust labor landscape than stats show. Why shifting away from rigid quarterly filings could free up companies and provide better long-term insights for investors. The inside scoop on Luckin's bold U.S. expansion strategy and how it's challenging the coffee giant's dominance with aggressive pricing and tech-driven growth. Americans can't stop buying cars they don't need.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss Elon Musk purchasing $1B worth of Tesla stock. Tesla's chair says only Musk can lead Tesla's next phase. 'Underwater' car trade-ins are at a 4-year high. More Americans are stuck with the jobs they can get, not the ones they want. How to build a million-dollar future for your kids.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the Fed meeting this week to set interest rates. Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan see stock rally stalling after Fed rate cut. China says Nvidia violated antitrust law. Whirlpool tells US authorities its rivals could be evading tariffs. Gold hasn't rallied this much since 1979. Is turning to ChatGPT for financial advice wise?
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane are joined by CNBC's Michael Santoli to recap what we saw in terms of inflation data this week and why we are likely to see a 25 bps interest cut at next week's Fed meeting, as opposed to 50 bps. Plus, with the cost of healthcare continuing to climb, should employers be seeing more blame as they pass along some of the impact to their employees through payroll deductions? Barron's Paul LaMonica also hopped on to speak with the guys about Oracle's massive stock rally this week.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss firm inflation and soft jobs data pull the Fed in opposing directions. Economists see Fed rate cut next week and at least one more in 2025. Mortgage rates are at an 11-month low. Will that save this housing market? Labor hoarding looks close to painful end.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss consumer prices rose at annual rate of 2.9% in August and jobless claims that are nearing a four-year high. What are the expectations for next week's Fed meeting? Oracle may be having its Nvidia moment. Or it could be a repeat of 1999. IPO mania is back. Or is it the dot-com bubble all over again?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss incomes rose and poverty fell last year. So why do so many Americans feel trapped? Homeowners dash to refinance as mortgage rates dive. Fewer people think that retirement will take a miracle. But inflation worries persist. Bond yields are falling. Where can retirees still find 5% yeilds? FTC opens probe into Alphabet, Meta, OpenAI, xAI, and Snap over chatbot safety for kids.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong dive into the August payroll data that came in below expectations. What does the jobs data tell us about a September rate cut? Electricity costs are rising twice as fast as inflation. Why is the jobs market so sluggish right now?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the current state of the housing market and what it means if the government declares a national housing emergency. Luke Kawa (Sherwood News) joins the show to chat about surging Broadcom. World meat prices reach new highs as consumers clamor for beef. Paul LaMonica (Barron's) stops by to talk about DraftKings and FanDuel's recent struggles.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong dive into this morning's data releases that focus in on the labor market. Is the data raising any alarms? Why is Massachusetts's unemployment numbers much higher than the rest of New England? Is the Fed seeing little to no growth across the country? Google's recent loss-yet-victory in court is frustrating for Chuck. What are precious metals saying about the economy right now?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss McDonald's excalting the restaurant industry's tipping fight. What jobs will be included under Trump's 'no tax on tips?' Mark Voner, Founder and CEO - Veterans Development Corporation, joins the show to chat about how his company works with the VA, why his company maintains deep connections to the military, and why DAV is so important to him. Are low-cost airlines in a nose dive? Does Musk have a new vision for Tesla?
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss the historic trends that show September being a horrible month for investors. What should we expect from this Friday's jobs report? What happens now that a court struck down some of Trump's tariffs? Companies re having major issues pricing items. How the Fed losing its independence could affect Americans' everyday lives.
Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane discuss why a good economy can feel so bad. US stocks are now pricier than they were in the lead-up to the Dot-Com bubble pop. How bad could the fallout be from an AI bubble pop? What is the ultimate goal of the tariffs? A band of retail investors are beginning to flex their muscle. Musk now claims Tesla's profits will largely come from robots.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss how the future of the Fed came to rest on Lisa Cook. Alibaba creates AI chip to help China fill Nvidia void. Why the S&P 500 could be at risk of a 10% to 20% pullback if ether falls behind bitcoin again. Paul LaMonica, Barron's, joins the show to chat Salesforce's difficult year. Zuckerberg's AI hires disrupt Meta with swift exits and threats to leave.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss core inflation rose to 2.9% in July, highest since February. Does this change the Fed's September rate cut decision? Rate cuts will be good for stocks. But would the Fed be stimulating an economy that doesn't need it? Economists see slow US growth and stubborn inflation well into 2026. Higher prices are coming for household staples.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the biggest problems the housing market is facing right now. After years of pain, are the riskiest stocks finally seeing some momentum? Big changes are coming to charitable giving. OpenAI is updating ChatGPT to better support users in mental distress.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss Nvidia predicting cooler growth after sales record. Is China getting closer to finding its own Nvidia? US weekly jobless claims fall amid layoffs. Q2 GDP revised to show stronger growth. Why the market doesn't care much about Trump firing Fed's Cook. Mexico to raise tariffs on imports from China after US push. Who's to blame for your higher power bill?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the July retail sales data that rose despite tariff uncertainty. Consumer sentiment falls as inflation expectations climb. Can anything save Target from becoming the next Macy's? Now we know who is paying for tariffs. Who? Goldman researchers warn of an unfriendly asymmetry.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss potential Fed chair David Zervos backs aggressive interest rate cuts. What is ahead for the 10-year treasury rate after Fed rate cuts? The US is discussing taking a stake in Intel. SpaceX gets billions from the government. It gives nothing back in taxes. The reason is obvious. Consumers are losing patience with $17 salads. Paul LaMonica, Barron's, joins the show to chat about Otis.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss jobless claims edging lower last week and wholesale prices surged. Is the data starting to show the impacts from tariffs? Blue states hunt for ways to wring more taxes from the wealthy. Big Pharma has a vision for selling drugs and it involves mattresses. Google faces loss of Chrome as Perplexity bid adds drama to looming break up decision.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the feelings of FOMO many are having during the recent stock market surge. Amazon launches same-day delivery of meat, eggs, and produce in more than 1,000 cities. What is a 'safe' savings withdrawal rate in retirement? Those who run AI chatbot companies are dangerous. Are parents really ditching minivans for e-bikes?
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti explain why the Fed could cut rates in September and it comes down to employment data. Trump to nominate BLS critic to lead the agency. The era of big raises for low-paid workers is over. Do Roth IRA conversions still make sense with the passage of the GOP tax bill? Trump's BLS nominee already making questionable comments about the agency's future.
Mike Armstrong and Marc Fandetti discuss the release of July's CPI data that came in less than expected and what that means for the Fed when they have to decide on interest rates in September. Tariff promises on both sides have been wildly overblown. Nvidia CEO buys his way out of the trade battle. China urges firms to avoid Nvidia's H20 chips. Trump softens stance on Intel CEO after demanding resignation. Elon Musk threatens to sue Apple over app store rankings.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss Nvidia and AMD agreeing to pay 15% to the US on every chip they sell in China. What if China opts out of Nvidia chips? What are US automakers saying about Trump's changing EV policies? Small US businesses are getting slammed by tariffs. Is Walmart too big to fail?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss timing a new home purchase and why now might be a good time. Dot-com parallel leads to fear of what's next for this record-breaking stock market. When to ditch web search for deep research. Target has a frustrated workforce amidst the search for a new CEO.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the Nasdaq reaching new highs. Markets shrug off poor employment data. Trump's surprise pick buys him time on chair selection. What is the biggest economic threat to Trump? 'Stagflation is coming to the US' what does that mean for your dollars, bonds, and stocks?
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss the BLS not being able to be replaced by the private sector. Las Veags sees drop in tourism, hinting at broader economic woes facing the US. Summer concert season off to a booming start. Paul LaMonica, Barrons, joins the show to chat about Broadcom's fantastic start to the year and why they aren't included in the Magnificent Seven.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss how markets continue to brush aside tariffs and potential tariff impacts, why? The auto industry takes a $12B hit from the trade war. Three Fed officials voice fresh concerns over the US labor market. Are you ready for private assets and crypto in your 401(k)? Youth is losing to experience in this labor market.
Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong discuss mega cap companies continuing to hold up markets are their backs. Luke Kawa, Sherwood News, joins the show to continue the conversation about mega cap dominance. Peloton posts surprise profit but announces 6% layoffs anyway. Draft Kings profit doubles ex[ectations as people are betting and losing more.