Money Talk

Saturday, April 4th. How Oil Prices Affect the Economy This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack President Trump’s calls for the U.S. to step back from policing Middle East energy security, his push to exit the Iran conflict after taking away its nuclear and military capabilities, and Tehran’s demand for guarantees to prevent future aggression. We explore why oil price shocks hurt the economy far less than they used to, how U.S. energy efficiency has transformed since the Gulf War era, and why the Fed is content to “wait and see” rather than react to short‑term supply disruptions. Plus, a timely Labor Department proposal that could open 401(k) plans to private equity, private credit, crypto, and other alternatives, offering clearer fiduciary cover for plan managers. Also, segments on direct indexing and plans for rich retirees.

For the Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack a busy week where energy markets once again broke the rules, with negative prices in parts of the US echoing the shock of April 2020 and showing how oil profits can help offset losses in gas. They also take a look at fast moving global developments, from sudden shifts in US Iran dynamics to Turkey considering sales of its gold reserves to support its currency. Plus, practical conversations on smart ways to put a bigger tax refund to work and how to plan ahead for the rising costs of weddings.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen discuss rising fuel costs, Iran’s attacks on energy infrastructure, and Powell’s defiant stance at the Fed. We break down why backward‑looking data may matter less in a post‑Iran world and new proposals on bank capital and SEC reporting. Plus, we look beyond oil to Nvidia’s trillion‑dollar ambitions, Macy’s surprising “shrink‑to‑grow” strategy, and why Americans might be outsourcing steak‑risk to restaurants.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down the nonstop developments out of Iran, from a new leader to massive U.S. military spending and a global scramble to replace disrupted oil and fertilizer flows through the Strait of Hormuz. We also unpack why the IEA’s historic 400‑million‑barrel release may not calm markets, how shaky private‑credit headlines are starting to snowball, and why economic data like CPI and jobs reports are already outdated in a $100‑oil world. Plus, we explore surprising shifts in consumer behavior as giants like McDonald’s and Dollar General chase customers on both ends of the income spectrum amid mounting travel, trade, and supply‑chain strains. Also, segments on the trend of people raiding their 401(k) accounts and "retirement subtraction".

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen look at why classic diversification struggled as stocks, bonds, and even gold moved together, and why holding cash with a real plan may matter more than ever. We talk about the rise in hardship withdrawals from retirement accounts and what that reveals about financial stress across the country. We also break down major global tensions, shifting oil flows, and the latest economic data that is shaping markets. Plus, segments on navigating financial conversations with family and how to leverage your health as your greatest wealth.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down whether the latest Fed minutes truly put another rate hike back on the table, all while markets juggle rising geopolitical tension with Iran and attention on Japan’s massive U.S. investment commitments. They’ll dig into the data, from falling jobless claims and a widening trade deficit to signs of a manufacturing rebound, as well as what demographic shifts mean for companies like Molson Coors and Harley-Davidson. Plus, they explore the growing turf war between Amazon and Walmart and what it signals for consumers and investors alike. Other segments include tax moves before the deadline, and a new $6,000 deduction for seniors.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack Japan’s political shake‑up, where a landslide election win is clearing the way for food‑tax cuts and potential changes to the nation’s post‑war constitution. They turn to the U.S. next, tackling rising economic pressures, from a growing federal deficit and tariff‑driven price hikes to a housing market still millions of homes short. Finally, they sift through the latest data and corporate earnings to reveal what’s really happening on the ground as consumers pull back, mortgage stress creeps up, and businesses split between AI‑powered momentum and tariff‑strained margins. Plus, two bonus segments: AI investing strategies for high‑net‑worth portfolios and key tax moves ahead of the 2025 deadline.

It was a whirlwind week in politics and economics, from shutdown fallout and delayed labor data to a surprise rebound in U.S. manufacturing. In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down major Trump-era developments, including a proposed minerals stockpile, a pathway‑to‑ownership housing plan, and an India trade deal shaped by energy and geopolitics. We also cover Fed leadership changes, rising tensions with Iran, what it all means for markets and workers, and a timely segment on charitable giving with Maggie Tate-Techtmann, Executive Director at HAWS.

During our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down the new tariff threats from President Trump, a weaker U.S. dollar, and a landmark trade deal between the European Union and India. We also cover the Federal Reserve holding rates steady while signaling a mixed economic picture. On the data front, slowing job growth, plunging consumer confidence, and the weakest population growth since COVID point to rising uncertainty about the U.S. economy. Plus, segments on the new "Trump Accounts" and rolling over 401(k) plans.

We take a deep dive into the political developments that defined the week, with Davos setting the agenda. From tariffs and Greenland to housing policy, credit cards, crypto, and global markets, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review. As always, we round it out with key international reactions, important data points shaping the macro-outlook, and segments on retroactive tax strategies and preparing for the Silver Tsunami.

From Trump’s surprise call for a 10% cap on credit‑card interest to the DOJ’s subpoenas aimed at Jerome Powell, it was a week packed with political and market-moving headlines. Inflation kept cooling, and corporate earnings stayed upbeat, even as consumers grew more cautious. Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen walk through it for our Week in Review, and we dive into how ACA subsidies are affecting people under 65.

The Santa Rally skipped town this year, but the January Effect is making waves, especially for small caps. Markets are buzzing after U.S. forces captured Venezuela’s president Maduro, fueling bold oil ambitions despite steep challenges. Plus, trade tensions and tariff twists continue, and younger workers being affected by AI-exposed occupations. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it all down in this Week in Review, along with segments on key milestone ages for retirement planning and avoiding online scams.

China’s economy hit a rough patch with deflation fears, while U.S. markets soared despite historic tariff hikes and a few headline-grabbing scares. Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen break down the headlines into the new year with our Week in Review. Gold and silver had a banner year, Bitcoin stumbled, and AI kept stealing the spotlight. Next year looks even bigger for AI with new models from OpenAI and Meta set to shake things up. Also, how could the 4% rule help you in retirement, and how you can be prepared if you are single in your later years.

This week’s show takes a look back at 2025 and noted how the markets have broadened heading into 2026. We explore decisions high net worth people face, as well as considerations when selling assets. We also explore “money guilt” – the uncomfortable feeling of second-guessing spending decisions.

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack distorted economic data and what shifting payroll trends could mean for the labor market in our Week in Review. Inflation may be taking a breather, but consumer spending is holding strong as we head into the holidays. Plus, we preview earnings season, explore what to expect in your first meeting with a wealth manager, and dive into creating a lasting ‘living legacy.’

The Fed cut rates but signaled it’s ready to hit pause for a while. In our Week in Review, Tom Parks and Brian Jacobsen break down why their upbeat tone on productivity could make their job easier, what the board’s mindset might be, and why market expectations for 2026 cuts are already taking shape. Also, segments on solo aging, the rules of gifting money and creating a "living legacy".

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen walk you through a week where strong shopping meets mixed economic news in our Week in Review. They also cover tariff updates, election stories, challenges facing retailers and small businesses, a big moment in charitable giving. Later, trending discussions about equity compensation and planning for solo aging.

This week’s Week in Review covers major political moves, from President Trump’s planned trip to Beijing to the launch of the Genesis Mission and the latest readings on growth, confidence, inflation, and business sentiment. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen also unpack notable corporate stories, evolving consumer behavior, the data to watch in the week ahead, plus segments on smart ways to gift money and how to think about “Alignment” versus “Accumulation” in retirement.

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down everything from tariff-driven grocery relief to mixed economic signals heading into the holidays for the Week in Review. They’ll help make sense of what matters now, and what might matter next. We also talk about how parents can build a real plan to help their kids tackle student loans. And later, smart end-of-year decisions for high-net-worth families looking to get organized before 2026.

Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen tackle a busy week of headlines in our Week in Review. Everything from the shutdown delay and shifting tariffs to new housing ideas like portable mortgages. We’ll also dig into what small businesses and big-name earnings are signaling as we head into the holidays. And later, we break down “equity compensation” and whether it’s something you’d actually want as part of your pay.

This week, we’re digging into the “K-shaped” economy—who’s rising, who’s struggling, and what the latest numbers reveal. In our Week in Review, Wealth Advisor Austin Grandinetti and Chief Economic Strategist Dr. Brian Jacobsen sort through layoffs, earnings, tech turbulence, and political headlines shaping the markets. Plus, smart tax moves later in life, including lessons from a couple in their 80s, and whether it ever makes sense to hit pause on your 401(k) contributions, and how to get back on track if you do.

Saturday, November 1st Central banks were in the spotlight this week — with rate cuts, policy holds, and new signals about the path ahead for quantitative tightening. The Fed made another move, and investors are already asking what could come next in 2025. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down what it all means in this week’s Week In Review. Plus, a look at the surprising “Labubu Trend” sweeping the collectibles world — and what lessons it offers for investors. Later in the show, we’ll explore six key benefits of incorporating trusts into a comprehensive financial plan.

Saturday, September 27th. Shutdown countdown. As the October 1 deadline approaches, a compromise seems unlikely. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review, covering the looming shutdown. Plus, get a preview of next weekend's Divorce Workshop and explore the Great Baby Boomer Wealth Transfer.

Saturday, September 20th. Inflation: No surge in sight. Tariff-related inflation is unlikely to spike suddenly; instead, it’s expected to build gradually as companies cautiously adjust pricing to gauge market tolerance. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss the Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut rates by 25 basis points. The show also explores the role of 529 plans in higher education planning and answers the question, “Do I need an LLC?” with a detailed look at the key considerations.

Saturday, September 13th. Did we have a mini-recession? Did Spring 2024 to Summer 2024 have a mini-recession? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss how the Bureau of Labor Statistics significantly overestimated employment figures in early 2024, missing signs of a slowdown that may have bordered on one. With the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates soon, there's an emphasis on the importance of transparency in economic data, and the Fed’s challenge in balancing inflation control with supporting a cooling economy. Also, planning for Generation X. What do you need to consider?

Saturday, September 6th. Hiring stalls. Revised figures show a summer slowdown, with 13,000 jobs lost in June. What's that mean? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in their Week-in-Review. Also on the show, High Net Worth families aren't immune to unexpected cash flow challenges—learn what’s driving these issues and how to address them. Plus, Deanne Phillips examines the growing trend of parents financially supporting adult children, revealing a striking surge in monthly expenses.

Saturday, Augusts 23rd. Powell's swan song Jerome Powell’s Jackson Hole remarks sparked expectations of rate cuts, but did data dependency dampen the mood? Brian Jacobsen shares our Week-in-Review. Plus, we explore equity compensation strategies, the rise in gray divorce, and tips for navigating the process.

Stagflation is in the air. Stagflation combines low economic growth with high inflation. Peak uncertainty around trade and tariffs may have coincided with an economic low point, suggesting the worst could be behind us rather than ahead. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. We’ll also explore concerns about tapping a 401(k) for emergencies and strategies for planning major expenses, like a lavish wedding.

Saturday, August 2nd. US hiring slows. July’s report arrives as policymakers navigate conflicting economic narratives. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. Our ongoing coverage of the One Big Beautiful Bill includes tax analysis and three key considerations for parents planning for their children.

Saturday, July 26th. The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving.

Saturday, July 19th. Growth: More than a bounce? Recent data indicate the U.S. economy is gaining stronger footing than anticipated. Industrial production increased by 0.3% in June, surpassing expectations, and retail sales rebounded with a 0.6% rise. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Also on the show, we introduce the newest member of the Annex Private Client team and share tips to address imbalanced diversification in your 401(k), a common issue that can impact your financial health.

Saturday, July 12th. OBBB impact. What's in it for you? One Big Beautiful Bill 2025 provisions like business incentives, no taxes on tips or overtime, bigger deductions, and child tax credits could have immediate impact. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. We'll also cover myths about taxes as well as a discuss proper planning for Passion Assets like cars, art, and wine.

Saturday, July 5th. What about those jobs? In June, hiring surpassed expectations with 147,000 new jobs added. What does this mean for the Federal Reserve's next decision? Brian Jacobsen breaks it down in our Week-in-Review. Plus, learn how to plan for receiving an inheritance. Also, one of our Estate Planning attorneys shares key insights on transferring a family vacation property to the next generation.

Saturday, June 28th. Bunker Busters = Favorable Markets? Will U.S. strikes on Iran's uranium enrichment sites bring Iran back to the negotiating table? Markets have reacted positively. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. We’ll also conclude our Investment Jargon series and explore the connection between better health and avoiding tax surprises.

Saturday, June 14th. The shadow of Israel and Iran. The ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran are weighing on investors' minds. Consistent with historical patterns, bond yields have declined, oil prices have surged, and stock markets have experienced declines. In the Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen provide their insights. Additionally, the program explores the concerning rise of "gray divorce" among older adults, as well as the potential inclusion of cryptocurrency in 401(k) plans and whether this is a prudent investment choice.

Saturday, June 7th. Slowing, not stopping. The Beige Book highlights economic slowdown and a cooling services sector, though the employment situation report remains relatively stable. In the defensives versus cyclicals debate, recent updates from Campbell's, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Kimberly-Clark, and Procter & Gamble provide valuable insights. Brian Jacobsen shares our Week-in-Review. Additionally, we explore common mistakes made in each decade of life and strategies to avoid them. We also dive into the Fiduciary Journey of an Annex Client, offering a clear explanation of the process.

Saturday, May 31st. Red light, green light. On today's Week-in-Review, hosts Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen explore the recent market reactions to court rulings on tariffs, likening them to a "Red Light, Green Light" game. Markets surged Wednesday when tariffs were paused and continued to rally Thursday when they were upheld. The episode also delves into equity compensation and provides an overview of Annex Wealth Management’s insurance assessment process.

Saturday, May 24th. Growth: Race against the clock. On April 9th, the pause on high reciprocal tariffs, followed by a reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods from 145% to 30%, sparked a surge in shipping activity. This creates a prime opportunity for businesses and households to acquire goods at lower costs. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss key insights. Also on the show, we explore why some individuals opt for Social Security benefits earlier than optimal. We also examine "Seasonality" as part of our Spring-Cleaning theme.