Money Tree Investing

We're in a turkey hangover but that won't stop us from diving into investing strategies. We share how, by playing to their strengths and finding external support for areas of weakness, investors can reduce risk and enhance returns. We also talk niche investment opportunities in private companies and specific sectors, such as SpaceX and Stripe appearing in mutual funds, which is why you need to stay informed about evolving markets. Today we discuss... Kirk Chisholm reflects on a relaxing Thanksgiving filled with family time, turkey football, and setting up a backyard hockey rink. Doug Hagran shares his Thanksgiving highlights, including a successful deer hunting trip and attending a Minnesota Vikings game. Doug criticizes Ohio State's strategy after the loss against Michigan, emphasizing the failure to adapt and utilize their strengths against Michigan. How investors should align their strategies with their personal psychology and avoid imitating others, like Warren Buffett or hedge fund managers. Understanding personal strengths and weaknesses is critical for reducing risk and enhancing financial success. Using funds or managers for areas outside one's expertise can optimize returns and minimize risks. Private companies are being included in mutual funds, offering potential new investment opportunities for retail investors. Private equity investments often face challenges like high costs, illiquidity, and limited transparency. Liquidity is crucial in uncertain markets to avoid being trapped in illiquid investments during downturns. End-of-year tax-loss selling provides opportunities to buy undervalued stocks as investors offload losses. Macroeconomic factors like government cost-cutting and debt management significantly influence market trends and investment strategies. Growth stocks currently outperform due to optimism and favorable interest rate environments, but risks persist. Gold is noted for being less volatile than Bitcoin, but Bitcoin's upside has been stronger. The importance of moving on from losses, whether in elections, investing, or other domains, is underscored as a path to better decision-making. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/turkey-hangover-665 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Tony Greer is here to share Macro Trading opportunities based on his insights from his dynamic career as a trader, spanning roles in FX and more, to his transition to founding The Morning Navigator newsletter. Tony reflects on the challenges of trading during the dot-com bubble, emphasizing the lessons learned from navigating volatile bear markets and adapting to shifts in trading technology. Tony explains how he thrives in today's fast-paced trading environment, benefiting from volatility to capitalize on market moves. Today we discuss... Tony Greer divided his career into two halves: trading FX and commodities at Goldman Sachs, then moving into equity sales while consistently writing about markets. His independent trading firm during the 2000 tech bubble was an 18-month break-even experience, offering valuable lessons in market volatility and sentiment. Tony's enduring passion is his market commentary, culminating in his newsletter The Morning Navigator, now in its ninth year. Tony attributes his trading success to learning from both bull and bear markets, emphasizing that bear markets require a different, more challenging skillset. Tony highlights the evolution of trading, from transparent electronic montages in the early 2000s to today's opaque markets dominated by dark pools and hidden orders. His approach relies heavily on technical analysis, using risk-reward setups and trailing stop-loss strategies to navigate volatile markets. Tony's macro calls are driven by observing market sentiment and trends. With the rise of ETFs, options, and daily expirations, Tony notes that markets have become more dynamic and unpredictable, fueling opportunities for active traders. Markets often telegraph political outcomes, as seen when Trump's polling surge triggered a market breakout. Post-election market moves often reflect emotional reactions and capital deployment in favored sectors. Bank stocks and financials surged on election news, signaling bullish sentiment with substantial sector-wide moves. A steepening yield curve is a sign of economic health, often correlated with improving data and rising interest rates. The S&P's consistent earnings growth supports its role as a robust inflation hedge and investment choice. Trading strategies vary across time horizons, with different accounts dedicated to day trading, mid-term investments, and long-term positions. Success in trading requires passion, discipline, and finding a personal methodology that works for the individual. Markets thrive on diversity in strategies—there's no single "right way" to trade or invest. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/macro-trading-tony-greer-664

As the Friday before Thanksgiving unfolds, we are seeing cryptocurrency up and gold down! The markets are in a reflective yet volatile state. The emergence of Bitcoin options sparks intrigue and skepticism, with aggressive call-to-put ratios suggesting speculative fervor but also significant risk. Amid these market shifts, a broader discussion unfolds on the profitability of writing versus buying options, with no definitive data but a clear invitation for insights from more experienced market participants. Today we discuss... The Thanksgiving holiday week is historically a peculiar time for trading, with irregular schedules impacting market activity. The introduction of Bitcoin options has sparked curiosity, with high premiums signaling extreme market expectations but posing significant risks. Bitcoin's potential inclusion as a U.S. reserve asset has revived discussions, despite being a long-standing topic without concrete developments. Options trading serves as a tool for managing risk, with ongoing debate about whether option writers consistently outperform buyers. Advanced data and analysis on options market outcomes could provide valuable insights for seasoned investors. The Ethereum market has rebounded to a normal range but has underperformed Bitcoin. Bitcoin has benefited from two factors: election outcomes and speculation about its potential role as a reserve asset. Trump was strongly pro-Bitcoin, while Harris has shown lukewarm support, affecting market perceptions. Speculation on Bitcoin's role as a reserve asset has driven short-term price spikes. There are significant challenges to making Bitcoin a reserve asset due to its price volatility and speculative nature. Bitcoin's fixed supply and hoarding behavior contribute to its price volatility and limit its practicality as a currency. The U.S. government could use confiscated Bitcoin for reserves without impacting the market. Michael Saylor's leveraged Bitcoin strategy demonstrates the high-risk, high-reward nature of such plays. Bitcoin is increasingly seen as an asset class rather than a functional currency. The limited liquidity in Bitcoin due to speculative holding patterns mirrors challenges in other markets with reduced float. Small-cap stocks have performed well post-election, partly due to optimism about domestic economic policies. Small-cap indexes like the S&P 600 are stricter on profitability compared to the broader Russell 2000, impacting valuation clarity. Structural differences in today's IPO and investment landscape may affect the long-term potential of small caps. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/cryptocurrency-up-663 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Anne Lester is here to discuss the retirement solutions and challenges that are facing each generation. Ann shares insights into the challenges of saving for retirement, influenced by her personal experiences as a former "terrible saver." There is a lot the anxiety surrounding retirement savings, the pitfalls of focusing on "the number," and the importance of understanding personal spending flexibility and failure lines. Ann discusses generational differences in retirement preparedness and highlights strategies for building retirement savings, such as saving future raises and adjusting spending priorities. Today we discuss... How Anne helped create the JP Morgan Smart Retirement Target Date Fund. Retirement challenges, including income uncertainty and spending in later life. Understanding personal "failure lines" and acceptable lifestyle adjustments. Generational wealth differences, with Gen Z and Millennials saving more early. The importance of employer-sponsored 401(k) plans for wealth building. Younger generations face challenges saving for retirement but are encouraged to stay the course for long-term stability. The housing market imbalance is influenced by limited supply, high prices, and generational trends in homeownership. Starter homes are increasingly unaffordable, forcing many young buyers to rely on financial help from family. The housing market could improve in 5-10 years as demographics and housing supply gradually shift. Multifamily housing and smaller new builds are growing trends, potentially offering more affordable options for buyers. Behavioral economics and AI have the potential to assist individuals in managing spending habits and savings strategies. Credit availability and understanding its consequences play a significant role in financial outcomes for younger generations. Boomers struggle with transitioning from saving to spending in retirement, often leaving unused funds. Generational differences in attitudes toward spending, saving, and credit reflect diverse economic experiences. Future perspectives on bonds may involve alternative strategies as economic conditions evolve. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/retirement-solutions-anne-lester-662 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Jeff Hulett | Finance Revamp Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

The Trump presidency is going to affect your investments and today we discuss how! We talk about focusing on shifting paradigms, market trends, and the need for pragmatic investing. We criticize tech stocks, social media's evolving role in information dissemination, and reflections on media partisanship. Our overarching goal is for you to focus on investment opportunities created by policy changes rather than being swayed by ideology. Today we discuss... Reflections on self-awareness and understanding societal perceptions after the election. Observations about the market downturn, especially in tech stocks. Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter and its cultural implications. The significance of comedy and free speech in maintaining societal balance. Discontent with corporate media as biased propaganda, regardless of political alignment. Concerns about the long-term sustainability of pensions, Medicare, and Social Security in the 2030s. Inflation's impact on savings and purchasing power as a critical financial concern. Discussion of policy proposals like free college and their feasibility in a paradigm-shifting era. The potential economic disruptions from AI and other transformative technologies. Shifts in investment strategies to align with anticipated policy changes under new leadership. The importance of separating politics from investment decisions to maximize financial outcomes. The strategic approach to capitalizing on corporate tax cuts and their impact on major companies. Critique of ideological investing for potentially leaving significant financial gains on the table. Nuclear energy is gaining bipartisan support due to its reliability as a load power source. Abundant, cheap energy is critical for societal progress, as scarcity leads to economic stagnation and conflicts over resources. Proposals like replacing income tax with tariffs reflect the trade-offs inherent in policy changes. Recognizing the populist movement as a response to frustrations with big institutions and a desire for greater voter control. Misinformation in charts and emphasizing skepticism when analyzing data visuals online. Identifying signs of euphoria in market sentiment as a potential warning for cautious investing. Contrarian investing during periods of extreme optimism or pessimism as a timeless strategy. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/trump-presidency-661 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Marco Santarelli returns to share real estate opportunities you should be jumping on in 2025! Despite rising interest rates, Marco remains optimistic about real estate as one of the best opportunities to be a part of. He explains that high demand and low supply in many U.S. markets create opportunities, particularly in non-tier-one markets, and encourages investors to focus on "where" to invest rather than "when" to start. Most people who do start investing in real estate regret that they didn't invest even more! Today we discuss... Marco Santarelli shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur with a primary focus on real estate investing, specifically in turnkey investment properties. Rising interest rates and their impact on real estate affordability. Focusing on location rather than timing the market, as there are always opportunities in specific markets. A lack of supply has created high demand in many U.S. housing markets, which is unlikely to be balanced before 2030. How affordability challenges affect buyers and investors, especially in expensive tier-one markets. Marco argues that even with higher mortgage rates, real estate investments continue to offer wealth protection, growth, and tax benefits. The current economic backdrop, including inflation and the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy, and its effects on real estate. Real estate investments are viable at any interest rate if the numbers work and the location is right. Housing demand is high due to an underbuilt market, with 2.1 million units needed to meet current demand. Industrial real estate is performing well, while commercial properties struggle with vacancies. Small-scale residential properties (1-4 units) are ideal for most investors due to financing benefits and availability. Effective property management is essential; consider tenants as customers and research property managers' services, reputation, and fees. Real estate offers long-term benefits through cash flow, equity, and tax advantages, and consistent education is key for successful investing. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/real-estate-opportunities-marco-santarelli-660 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

The election results are in and the real winners are the American people who do not have to watch politics ads anymore! Today we dive into the aftermath of the recent elections and what happens next for the markets. We talk about the ineffectiveness of government spending and the evolving view of political parties. There needs to be greater personal accountability and unity in navigating the nation's political landscape. No matter what we will be sure to see the impact of political dynamics on society and markets. The market will definitely respond to the political events of the next four years. Today we discuss... Relief after the recent election, especially from political advertising overload. How a record-breaking $15.9 billion was spent on U.S. political ads this election cycle. Frustrations over high campaign spending and suggests such funds could better support social causes. Critiques of the U.S. political system's reliance on private contributions and its potential to sway policy. Comedians like Jon Stewart for addressing political hypocrisy across the spectrum. The American political system seems to shift over time, with parties taking on opposite stances on issues like war. Bipartisan acceptance of differing opinions and the preservation of First Amendment rights are essential for a healthy society. Freedom of speech includes both expressing opinions and facing possible negative reactions. Extremist views on both political sides have made rational discussion harder. Polarized societies often see suppressed opinions emerge during pivotal events, like elections. Market reactions to election results can indicate future performance trends. Specific sectors post-election, like coal, banks, and crypto, provides insights on economic sentiment. Election outcomes impact short-term market volatility, but fundamentals drive long-term trends. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/election-results-659 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Mark Lumpkin is here to discuss real estate investing through creating a successful AirBNB. He delves into what it means to be a "super host," by enhancing a property's visibility and appeal. If you have a unique properties that can serve as part of the travel experience, you can find yourself a niche in the industry, and tailor your property for maximum appeal and profitability. Many new investors rush in, lured by promises of high yields but lack a strategic approach. Mark shares the secrets of how to maximize your success. Today we discuss... Mark explains his and his wife's travel experiences that led them to prefer short-term rentals over traditional hotels. How, inspired by their experiences, they decided to invest in short-term rentals and became Airbnb superhosts. How short-term rentals have made previously uneconomical properties profitable by offering daily rentals instead of long-term leases. The importance of having unique, high-quality properties to remain competitive and mitigate downturn risks. Focusing on mid-range properties, rather than luxury or low-end ones, often yields the best financial results. How unique, non-duplicatable properties avoid direct competition with identical listings. Market risks such as natural disasters, insurance costs, and operational expenses specific to high-tourism areas. The premium pricing strategy on weekends in vacation destinations for maximum yield. Catering to unique needs, like wheelchair accessibility or family-friendly amenities, can attract a premium. Balancing seasonal properties across markets with varying peak seasons can stabilize cash flow. Managing a short-term rental requires a strong on-ground team for cleaning, maintenance, and guest support. Listing properties on multiple platforms (Airbnb, VRBO, booking.com, etc.) increases exposure and revenue opportunities. Building a brand and direct-booking options, supported by social media, is a growing trend among property owners. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/successful-airbnb-mark-lumpkin-659

The election just happened and that means there will be some shenanigans after the election! Today we talk divisiveness in political discourse, the inefficiencies in government spending, and the challenges posed by increasing national debt and interest payments. The inefficiency in government spending and decision-making extends across the board so you need to be aware of your own finances and investments. Focus on your pragmatic investment strategies amidst economic uncertainty, especially after the election, and you'll be on a better track. Today we discuss... How politics is largely unhelpful for investing discussions. Today's society often discourages open, contradictory opinions. Election results are here, and market stability would benefit from a decisive winner. Government spending has increased while private sector growth lags. Government debt interest payments have surpassed national defense spending. The economy faces challenges as more jobs shift to government, education, and healthcare. Older generations dominate U.S. power structures, limiting opportunities for younger leaders. Economic solutions are limited to either growth, inflation, or reduced spending. The government, healthcare, and education sectors often suffer from inefficiency due to regulation. Technological advances in housing and nuclear energy are slowed by regulatory oversight. Crypto has been highly volatile, though fixed-income investments have also been risky in recent years. Significant donations from the crypto sector went to both political parties in the last election cycle. The market's response to election results is likely stable unless there is a contested outcome, which could trigger volatility. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/after-the-election-657

Richard Duncan is back to share the concept of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund, an idea to drive national economic growth through large-scale public investment in emerging industries and technologies. Recent bipartisan support from both the Trump and Biden camps highlights growing momentum for this initiative, and Richard thinks it could accelerate technological breakthroughs in fields like AI, quantum computing, and biotech. Such a fund would not only help reduce the national debt but also bolster U.S. competitiveness against China's rapid advancements in technology and defense. Today we discuss... The concept of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund, a proposal he has supported for years as a means of boosting national economic growth. Concerns that government programs already incentivize private sector growth, like R&D tax credits and preferential funding, but face inefficiencies. How a U.S. sovereign wealth fund would act as a venture capital source for private companies, similar to successful models in Singapore. How under-investment could allow China to become the dominant superpower, citing parallels to Europe's unpreparedness for Hitler's rise. The effects of inflated debt and the fragility of the U.S. economy, highlighting government intervention as a key reason it hasn't collapsed. If credit contracts, a recession could turn into a depression, risking significant economic instability. Each time private sector defaults threaten contraction, such as in 2008 and 2020, government intervention prevents economic collapse. Advocates of austerity overlook that spending cuts can cripple consumption, investment, and job creation, leading to economic decline. The speaker argues that large-scale investment, rather than austerity, is essential for growth and national security. America's economic resilience stems partly from government debt; alternatives could risk societal collapse. Future U.S. prosperity and competitiveness, especially against China, depend on substantial investment in science and technology. The risk of economic misallocation, using overemphasis on pharmaceuticals as an example. Balancing private sector decisions and government financing could ensure effective investment in essential industries. The U.S. must innovate in energy, particularly nuclear and fusion, to meet growing demands from sectors like AI. America's past reliance on globalization reduced inflation, but future economic stability may require adapting to changing global conditions. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/sovereign-wealth-fund-richard-duncan-656 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

There's a problem with the election and it's not just about you, it's me too. Our conversation today highlights how U.S. political party priorities have evolved with shifts in censorship power dynamics now seen in tech and government interactions. Voter turnout patterns by state reveal high engagement in blue states, sparking a discussion on potential impacts and a reflection on whether blockchain could offer fairer and more secure elections. Today we discuss... Most recent information is likely to be unreliable, especially with the election looming. Historical context regarding political party evolution highlights significant shifts in the Democratic and Republican parties over the years. The potential for implementing blockchain technology in voting is suggested as a way to enhance transparency and prevent voting irregularities. When investing in the market, your biases—whether bullish or bearish—can distort your perception of reality. Confirmation bias leads investors to seek information that supports their beliefs while ignoring opposing viewpoints. Historical examples highlight how both individuals and groups can rationalize harmful choices based on their biases. Recent trends show a belief that investing solely in the S&P 500 or real estate is the only way to achieve financial success, neglecting historical performance data. Many investors, including Warren Buffett, are reevaluating their holdings based on new data, which suggests current market valuations may be overly optimistic. Historical performance metrics show that various asset classes, including gold and emerging markets, may outperform current popular investments. A shareholder proposal suggests Microsoft should consider holding Bitcoin instead of cash, reflecting a shift towards cryptocurrency among corporations. Leveraging Bitcoin or any asset carries significant risks, particularly if market conditions change abruptly. Despite increasing investments in Bitcoin, its price has remained relatively stable, indicating complex market dynamics. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/problem-with-the-election-655 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Today I'm joined by my good friend, The Tax Goddess to discuss the Profit First system. Shauna Wekherlien's background in helping people legally minimize taxes and maximize savings and focuses on the Profit First system, a financial management approach for businesses and individuals. We explain how this system promotes discipline by prioritizing profit before expenses. Shauna also shares strategies to reduce tax bills legally. Today we discuss... Shauna Wekherlein shares her work as a tax strategist, helping people manage money and keep it away from the government legally. The Profit First system is a simple financial framework for both businesses and individuals. Shauna explains the process of setting aside a percentage of revenue for profit before paying expenses. Profit First encourages using multiple bank accounts to separate funds for profit, taxes, and other expenses. Kirk shares his positive experience with the Profit First system, calling it life-changing. How the system is customizable, allowing users to start small and increase their profit percentage over time. Shauna emphasizes the importance of having a separate bank account for taxes. The value of financial strategies to reduce tax bills while still ensuring funds are available for payments. Shauna highlights how business owners and individuals can use the Profit First method to achieve personal and financial goals. The conversation covers common financial challenges like lifestyle inflation and debt, and how Profit First can help avoid them. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/the-profit-first-system-shauna-wekherlien-654 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Megan Gorman | The Wealth Intersection Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Where is Bitcoin going next? Today we discuss Bitcoin and how it's currently crashing and what that means for it's future! We also talk about how consumer confidence fluctuates based on political affiliation and reflect on how political leanings shape people's perception of reality. We analyze charts "chart crimes," emphasizing how misleading technical analysis can be. We also touch on America's ever growing debt. Today we discuss... There's only two weeks between Halloween and the election! The University of Michigan Consumer Expectations Index reveals an inverse correlation between political party expectations based on who is in power. How political bias colors people's perception of reality. A shift in political leanings of tech executives is observed, with a historical trend toward Democrat support but a recent swing toward conservatism in 2024. The current state of leadership, with a lack of strong leaders across political lines. The concept of "chart crimes", where misleading technical analysis charts often deceive inexperienced investors. Bitcoin technical analysis is debunked, explaining that chart setups are not guaranteed predictions. The U.S. may face bankruptcy within 5 to 10 years, which could trigger significant inflation and financial hardship. The velocity of money and the trust in currency are key indicators to watch for potential hyperinflation or financial instability. Bitcoin's recent rise is correlated with an increase in M2 money supply, and both Bitcoin and gold are seen as potential hedges against inflation. There's uncertainty about how Bitcoin will perform in future recessions since it hasn't faced a major economic downturn yet. Consumers are struggling with high core inflation, impacting necessary expenses like utilities and food, despite overall inflation rates declining. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/where-is-bitcoin-going-653 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Jenny Groberg joins us to share how she has because a master of balancing business and family. Her journey led her to starting a consulting business from home while raising five children and navigating financial challenges due to her husband's medical school and residency. Jenny talks financial literacy, highlighting how she and her husband quickly paid off $250,000 in loans by living below their means. We discuss... Jenny Groberg is a mother of five, married for 21 years, whose husband's medical school and residency led her to start her own business out of necessity. She started consulting from home and built a successful business employing hundreds of women across the US who also work remotely from home. Jenny's company taps into a highly educated female workforce, breaking barriers in finance and challenging traditional male-dominated spaces. She is passionate about empowering women, especially during times of economic hardship, as many women are returning to work due to rising costs and inflation. Jenny highlights the flexibility and adaptability of women who juggle family and professional responsibilities while navigating challenges like maternity and remote work. The accounting field is shrinking, but Jenny sees opportunities in helping businesses improve financial literacy and manage their finances better. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on profitability over growth and ensuring businesses maintain financial discipline for long-term success. Jenny shares her personal story of paying off $250,000 in student loans in two years by maintaining a strict budget and avoiding lifestyle inflation. She believes that staying out of debt and managing finances conservatively can lead to long-term financial freedom and stability. Jenny encourages business owners to regularly monitor their financials, manage payroll efficiently, and make conservative financial decisions to ensure business survival and growth. She warns against relying on adjustable-rate loans and stresses the importance of saving for unexpected financial changes. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/balancing-business-and-family-jenny-groberg-652 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

We reveal the secret tax the government is hiding from us! We also talk the misunderstandings of inflation and all it's complexities. We also help you learn more with key inflation-related terms, such as deflation, disinflation, and hyperinflation, clarifying that hyperinflation occurs when public trust in a currency is lost. And we also argue that inflation is influenced not just by money printing, but also by the velocity of money—the rate at which money circulates within an economy. We discuss... Government-published CPI (Consumer Price Index) is the gold standard for measuring inflation, but there may be incentives to manipulate it. Shadow Stats shows inflation metrics based on older CPI calculations, suggesting a higher inflation rate than reported. Historical inflation rates in the 70s and 80s were much higher than today's target of 2%, challenging the notion of what's considered "normal." Money velocity is key to understanding inflation, as low velocity can counteract the effects of money printing. New money creation typically leads to inflation. Consumer price inflation visibly increases the price of goods and services, reducing purchasing power. When wages don't rise alongside prices, it squeezes the middle class and working class, making them poorer. Quantitative easing leads to asset price inflation but not consumer goods inflation. Stimulus checks and COVID relief caused consumer price inflation by increasing the money supply. Globalization has caused deflation by reducing the cost of goods. Technological advances are deflationary by making products cheaper and more efficient. Declining populations can lead to deflation, which worries governments with debt-based economies. Immigration helps prevent population decline but has complex economic and cultural implications. Despite recent inflationary spikes, the current trend is toward disinflation. U.S. debt has grown dramatically, with the annual increase accelerating in recent years. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/secret-tax-651 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Jeff Hulett shares how a proper personal finance education can build the habits that grow lifelong wealth. Our cognitive biases impact financial decision-making, often work against us. He highlights the role of habits and commitment devices in overcoming these biases, while also discussing the dangers of modern marketing and the manipulation of data. We also touch on how evolutionary biology still influences our financial behaviors today. We discuss... Jeff Hewlett shares his background in finance, mathematics, economics, and experience in banking and consulting. Jeff discusses his involvement in AI, machine learning, and how these technologies have been evolving over decades. He talks about his current role leading Personal Finance Reimagined, a platform focused on decision-making and financial education. How wealth distribution challenges are attributed to evolutionary biology and consumerism. Jeff emphasizes the importance of creating good financial habits and using commitment devices, such as robo-advisors. AI and its impact on decision-making, especially its potential for persuasion. Jeff highlights the significance of aligning decision processes with natural human tendencies, like binary decisions. How the U.S. education finance system preys on availability bias, deferring loan payments to the future while hiding present costs. College prices are excessively high, leading to concerns about the return on investment (ROI) for students. The value of a college degree is more about demonstrating the ability to work hard and sustain effort over four years. Community college can be a cost-effective route to a degree, demonstrating both financial savvy and resilience. There's a cognitive bias known as "time discounting" that leads people to struggle with understanding the compounding value of time. Confirmation bias affects political and social views, often reinforced by media echo chambers. Media, both legacy and social, plays a significant role in shaping biased worldviews, sometimes feeding incomplete or selective information. There's a growing generational divide in media trust, with older generations more likely to trust media than younger ones. The rise of narrowcasting in media has led to the creation of echo chambers where people only hear confirming viewpoints. Consumers of free media or social platforms are often the "product" being monetized, even when they think they aren't paying for content. AI and technology add to the complexity of discerning truth, as biases are baked into data sources, and deep fakes further obscure reality. The challenge for society is figuring out how to discern accurate information amid pervasive bias and misinformation. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/personal-finance-education-jeff-hulett-650 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Megan Gorman | The Wealth Intersection Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Hurricane Helene was devastating, and it impacted so much more than just Asheville. Hurricanes can cause major claims, leading to a temporary dip in stock prices for these insurers, creating a chance to buy at a discount. Although insurers face huge costs when these disasters strike, they benefit from collecting high premiums that continue to rise in coastal areas. Only time will tell how the impacted areas, the insurance companies, and the stock market will recover in the aftermath. We discuss... Hurricane Helene and the other hurricane that is on it's way. The opportunity for investors to buy discounted property and casualty insurance stocks during high-claim seasons. Property casualty insurers' strength lies in their ability to collect premiums and invest the float before claims are paid. Warren Buffett's investment strategy with property casualty insurance, leveraging the float for long-term investments like Coca-Cola. Buffett's investment prowess and how insurers gain an advantage by not needing to borrow money to grow. The complex nature of analyzing property casualty insurers, which requires specific metrics. A note on Hurricane Helene and the financial impact of other costly hurricanes. Update on the Federal Reserve's plans for interest rate cuts and fluctuating market expectations. Warning about the unreliability of government data, especially close to elections, and how market participants respond to such data. People are uncertain about market trends, and data may not always be reliable. Data manipulation in government reports has occurred, so numbers should be taken as guides, not definitive facts. A significant number of government employees were hired in September, influencing employment statistics. Elections add volatility to markets, with uncertainty often causing swings before stabilizing afterward. Corporate media often shapes narratives, leaving people feeling frustrated and distrustful of information. Extremist factions in politics are gaining influence, with candidates catering to these groups for votes. Many voters align with their party regardless of the candidate, reducing the significance of "undecided" voters. Wall Street prefers certainty, with market trends stabilizing after election results are confirmed. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/hurricane-helene-649

Josh Radman joins us today to discuss a little discussed topic on Money Tree Podcast: Decoding RSU, ISO and NQ SOs. He also shares how government programs and how they impact our labor market. He shares an example from local Broogers, which struggled to find staff and often received resumes from unemployable candidates. Josh also touches on how employment data has been revised to show many jobs are part-time or within the government, driven by new regulations. Shifting gears, Josh explores the idea that large AI models, like ChatGPT, might be throttled to prevent them from predicting the future, potentially disrupting markets. He also highlights the critical need for clean, reliable data for AI to function properly, as current government data is often inaccurate or manipulated. Today we discuss... Josh Radman shares his background, from General Mills to tech companies like Walmart e-commerce, where he encountered confusion around equity compensation. How his frustration with understanding ISOs, RSUs, and NSOs led him to found Presidio Advisors, a firm focused on helping millennials with equity compensation. He emphasizes the importance of balancing tax considerations with investment risk and prioritizing financial goals. Radman discusses regret minimization as a tool for decision-making, helping clients navigate the risks of equity compensation. Companies often fail to educate employees about equity compensation due to legal concerns, leaving employees to navigate complex tax and financial decisions. The complexity of ISOs, NSOs, and RSUs requires advanced planning and understanding, especially when managing liquidity events like IPOs. How long-term capital gains tax rates are preferable (0%, 15%, or 20%) compared to ordinary income tax rates (up to 37%). Employees often face a limited post-termination exercise period (typically three months) to exercise stock options after leaving a company. It's important to assess short-term, mid-term, and long-term cash needs when considering exercising stock options. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are taxed as ordinary income upon vesting without requiring cash outlay to exercise. A common misconception is that you must hold RSUs for a year to achieve optimal tax treatment; this is not necessary. Employees often underestimate total exposure to their company's stock due to both explicit and implicit risks. Cognitive biases, such as the endowment effect, can lead individuals to overvalue their RSUs and resist selling. Market returns are skewed, with a small number of companies generating significant returns; diversification is essential to mitigate risk. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/decoding-rsu-iso-nqso-josh-radman-648 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Election season upon us so you know that there will be an irrational impact of politics that is going to hit the market this fall. We also discuss the aging of political figures like Joe Biden and Donald Trump, and the impact of stress on leaders. We explore generational cycles, particularly the "Fourth Turning" theory, and reflect on media influence and propaganda, both in the U.S. and globally. Today we discuss... The U.S. presidential candidates and the physical and mental demands of the campaign trail, especially for older politicians. They explore the concept of "fourth turning" and generational cycles of conflict, predicting ongoing societal tensions. Global perspectives on the U.S. are discussed, contrasting media portrayals and public opinions abroad How "truth" is often subjective, shaped by perspective and opinion, especially in political contexts. Both sides in a debate typically view the other as misinformed or evil, leading to a polarized environment. The upcoming election period is expected to be filled with misinformation and humor, as political discourse tends to devolve. Investment markets exhibit similar behavior, where individuals often believe they can predict outcomes, leading to misguided confidence. Historical economic events, such as the housing market in the late '90s and 2007, demonstrate patterns of irrational behavior among investors. Wall Street often presents a biased perspective, promoting buying to maintain market stability and profits. People become emotionally invested in their stocks or political affiliations, which clouds their judgment and objectivity. Discussions of gold, silver, and cryptocurrency reveal that tangible assets are often viewed as safe havens in uncertain economic climates. Emotional decision-making plays a significant role in how individuals approach investments, especially concerning real estate versus stocks. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/irrational-impact-of-politics-647

Peter Berezin is here today to discuss the global meltdown that is coming! The chief strategist at BCA Research discusses the potential for an upcoming U.S. recession. Peter predicts that a recession could lead to a significant market crash, even without deep economic downturns, much like the 2001 recession. He also touches on inflation, budget deficits, and the government's ability to counteract economic downturns. Today we discuss... Predictions of a US recession to start later this year or early next year, contradicting the expectation of a soft landing. Economic insulation from job openings and excess pandemic savings is depleting, cooling the economy. Real estate markets, including commercial, residential, and single-family homes, look worrying due to high vacancy rates and rising delinquency. Small regional banks could face problems due to their exposure to commercial real estate, potentially leading to a steady stream of bad news. During a recession, Berezin expects opportunities to buy solid companies at a discount, particularly in tech and healthcare. Inflation is expected to stay under control over the next 12 months due to a weakening economy, falling job openings, and lower wage growth. Peter explains that printing money to finance fiscal deficits can be inflationary, particularly when unemployment rises and fiscal spending increases. The large US budget deficit is troubling, especially as counter-cyclical fiscal policy might be limited during future economic downturns. Concern about the continued printing of money in bad times, potentially leading to economic imbalances like income inequality. Raising taxes is suggested as a possible path forward, though political challenges could impede this. Tax increases are likely if certain tax cuts expire, with potential cuts to defense or social spending as other budget-balancing measures. Concerns about worsening fiscal scenarios prompt the idea of hedging with TIPS and gold. Global markets, especially outside the U.S., are seen as more attractive due to valuation gaps, with emerging markets managing inflation better recently. Commodities, particularly metals, are seen as benefiting from the green energy transition, while oil demand may decrease. Gold is positioned as a hedge against geopolitical volatility and long-term inflation, though rising bond yields have made it less attractive recently. Bitcoin is unlikely to become a central bank asset due to its anonymity and governments' need to monitor and tax transactions. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/global-meltdown-peter-berezin-646 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Corporate media is heavy on the propaganda these day! It's hard to tell what is real in the news anymore. But what we do know for sure is the Federal Reserve made a surprising decision to cut interest rates by 50 basis points, reducing the federal funds rate to a range of 4.75% to 5%. We talk the implications of this unexpected move. It's hard to understand the Fed's rationale so it's important to understand the data that may not be publicly available and questioning what signals the Fed is responding to. That's why you need to stay vigilant when it comes to the news and where you're getting your facts and data from. Today we discuss... The Fed surprised many by cutting the federal funds rate by 50 basis points, bringing it to a range of 4.75% to 5%. Concerns arose about the sudden need for significant rate cuts, indicating potential underlying economic issues. Many speculate that the Fed possesses data not publicly available, raising concerns about hidden economic pressures. The Fed's decisions are influenced by unemployment trends more than inflation or stock market performance. Speculations linger about whether the Fed's actions could influence the upcoming election, although this is not typically their mandate. Overall, the Fed's strong statements indicate a serious concern about economic conditions, prompting scrutiny and analysis from investors and economists alike. The speaker argues that news media often functions as high-grade propaganda, which can cloud rational thinking. The rise of the internet in the 1990s disrupted traditional media by providing free access to information. People shifted from relying on traditional media outlets to independent sources like blogs and podcasts. The limitations of their data access compared to government or mainstream media. The media employs attention-grabbing tactics, such as sensationalism and loud broadcasts, to attract viewership. This reliance on dramatic presentation often overshadows the delivery of accurate information. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/heavy-on-the-propaganda-645 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Anthony Coniglio is here today to talk about how you can invest in cannabis stocks! Anthony co-founded New Lake Capital Partners, a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on the cannabis sector. Today he's here to discusses the complexities of investing in cannabis! He touches on the challenges and opportunities in the U.S. cannabis market, such as state-by-state regulations, federal restrictions, and evolving consumer preferences. There is potential for medical cannabis, but there is also need for more research to enable broader investment and growth in the industry. Today we discuss... Anthony's 30 years of business experience, and how it led him to co-founding New Lake. How the cannabis market has garnered attention since Canada's legalization in 2018, with various investment opportunities emerging in both U.S. and Canadian markets. Investing in cannabis can involve direct plant-touching businesses (cultivators, manufacturers, distributors) or non-plant-touching businesses (ancillary services, real estate). Medical cannabis is supported by a majority of Americans, but research is hindered by its Schedule I status, limiting evidence on its efficacy. The Schedule I to Schedule III rescheduling proposal is still pending, with a hearing scheduled for December to address comments and opposition. The cannabis industry is highly regulated, with indoor cultivation facilities focusing on optimizing THC content. Consumer preferences are shifting towards edibles and drinks rather than raw flower, indicating potential growth areas in the industry. Hemp differs from cannabis mainly in THC content, and can be used for various industrial applications, including products with higher THC through legal loopholes. The cannabis sector faces challenges due to federal regulations affecting banking and investment, impacting liquidity and institutional involvement. There is a need for policy reform to enable better banking services and research opportunities, which could normalize the industry and recognize its significant employment impact. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/invest-in-cannabis-stocks-anthony-coniglio-644 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Is Ai stealing your jobs? Today we discuss how Ai is impacting the job market and inflation. We also highlight the states where people are having a lower percentage of struggle with household expenses compared to other states. We also share possible concerns about the potential negative impacts of universal basic income and the future of work. Join us today we talk about all of this and more! Today we discuss... Some states have lower percentages of adults struggling with household expenses compared to other states. The states with fewer adults struggling are mostly liberal, while those with higher struggles are predominantly conservative. Conservative states with high welfare dependency often criticize welfare systems despite benefiting from them. The debate over Universal Basic Income (UBI) continues, with concerns about its potential to cause inflation and economic issues. AI's impact on job markets is significant, affecting both creative and technical professions, and may lead to existential questions about purpose and employment. Social Security, Medicare, and pensions are projected to face financial shortfalls in the coming decade. Receiving steady, high pay without working can reduce stress but strain the labor economy, leading to higher job prices. Employment data has been frequently restated, revealing that many jobs are part-time or in government sectors. New regulations create more government jobs to enforce them, even though the original data was already accessible. There is concern that AI's ability to predict the future might be limited to avoid impacts on markets and other areas. Centralized platforms, like Google and social media, may manipulate information to shape opinions and influence outcomes. Building personal AI models could help avoid manipulation by large corporations and governments. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/ai-stealing-your-jobs Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Emmanuel Daniel is here today to discuss the secret future of banking! He shares his background, and how he established "The Asian Banker," a publication focused on understanding the banking and financial landscapes in Asia. He provides insights on China's economic transformation, especially in tech and AI. He also examines the secret future of banking, and how it will impact the global scale. Stay tuned as today we discuss... Daniel's experiences with the banking sector across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Silicon Valley. Daniel talks about his deep connections with influential people in the U.S. financial system and his unique perspective on U.S. and Chinese policymaking. China's rise, highlighting its post-Cultural Revolution recovery, WTO accession, and economic growth driven by education and infrastructure investments. The evolving landscape of banking with the introduction of new technologies like AI, blockchain, and digital banking, and the challenges and opportunities they present. The challenges of regulating new financial technologies and the impact of digital disruption on traditional banking models. Technology is forcing institutions to adapt to greater personalization in finance, society, and governance. How young generations across the world are forming new communities and subcultures enabled by digital platforms. The challenge for governments, especially in more controlled states like China, is managing and steering this newfound individual empowerment. How India represents an untapped potential with significant structural challenges, particularly within its state apparatus and governance. Future trends will focus on leveraging AI for productivity gains, rather than being paralyzed by fear of the technology. How the US is poised to lead the world in creating a new, digitized, and financialized economy, serving as a model for others. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/secret-future-of-banking-emmanuel-daniel-642 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Historically, every time the yield curve inverts, a recession follows, but don't fret just yet, this could be correlation, not causation. Recession tends to follow when the yield curve reverts back to normal after inversion, rather than during the inversion itself. The Federal Reserve's themselves and their actions have impacted the yield curve over the year and shifts in banking behavior can slow the economy. Changes in economic conditions and market behaviors suggest a potential recession is forthcoming, but don't panic yet, you can't predict the market. Today we discuss... The inverted yield curve occurs when short-term interest rates exceed long-term rates, which is generally considered abnormal. The Fed's recent rate hikes caused the short end of the yield curve to increase sharply, resulting in an inversion. Banks are less likely to lend during periods of an inverted yield curve because lending at a lower rate than they borrow leads to losses. Changes in how money is created may alter the predictive power of the yield curve inversion as a recession indicator. Household allocation to stocks has recently hit an all-time high, indicating extreme market complacency. Fixed income, traditionally seen as a conservative investment, became the worst-performing asset class in 2022 due to interest rate volatility. Many investors may be unaware of their true risk tolerance, having not experienced significant capital loss since the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Risk in investing includes not just losing money but also the loss of time, as shown by the S&P 500's negative performance from 2000 to 2013. Confidence in the American Dream has significantly eroded since 2012, with fewer people believing hard work will lead to success. Credit card defaults are reaching record highs, surpassing previous peaks seen during the dot-com bubble and the financial crisis. U.S. government spending is projected to increase significantly, with 87% allocated to interest expenses, Social Security, and healthcare. Food prices have reached new highs, contributing to financial stress for consumers. The cost of U.S. federal debt interest has skyrocketed, reaching $1.1 trillion annually, or $3 billion per day. There is concern that the Federal Reserve is not truly independent, with its actions influenced by government, banks, and other powerful entities. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/inverted-yield-curve-641 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Andrew Stotz returns to discuss World War 2.5! Having moved from the U.S. to Thailand in 1992, Stotz has extensive experience in the Thai stock market and now runs A. Stotz Investment Research. Stotz shared his perspective on U.S. dominance in Europe, the growing tension with China, and the shift of global resources, particularly in Africa. He also highlighted the increasing complexity of international compliance regulations driven by Europe's green energy transition. Learn how all this significantly impact global markets and developing nations. Today we discuss... How Andrew began a career as a sell-side analyst in 1993. Andrew's 20 years in the Thai stock market and where his experiences led him. Andrew's podcast My Worst Investment Ever, focusing on lessons from financial failures. The U.S.'s dominance over Europe and the ongoing geopolitical tensions. The potential collapse of the U.S. market and dollar is a concern for investors outside America. Uncertainty about the timing and severity of the anticipated recession. The strategic economic moves of China, particularly in Africa, and its implications for global power dynamics. The discussion includes the complexities of China's role in global capitalism and its interactions with the U.S. and Europe. Europe is criticized for exporting strict compliance and regulations, particularly around green energy, impacting global trade and development. And more! For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/world-war-2-5-andrew-stotz-640 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

The fed is cookin' up something and today we talk about their upcoming decision on interest rates, and debate on whether and how much rates should be cut. We discuss the impact of potential rate cuts - there's concern about inadvertently stoking inflation or failing to manage a gradual economic slowdown. We also talk about market expectations, past misjudgments, and behavioral biases and how they effect investment strategies. Today we discuss... How inflation has decreased to 2.2% year over year, which is positive but may not feel beneficial to everyone. The Fed is expected to lower interest rates, with debate over whether it will be by 0.25% or 0.5%. Unemployment has risen to 4.3%, leading to concerns about a potential recession. Whether the Fed's actions are aimed at inflation control or market performance. The concept of second-level thinking in investing and the importance of understanding market expectations. How the Fed may lower rates once this year and not make multiple cuts unless there is a severe recession. Historical comparisons between past and current interest rates and unemployment rates. The importance of understanding market pricing, timing, and investor behavior. The role of behavioral finance biases, such as recency bias, in economic decision-making. Strategies for passive investing, portfolio rebalancing, and navigating the bond market in a changing interest rate environment. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/fed-is-cookin-639 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Kepmton Schwab is here to discuss Venture Capital (VC) investing! We also discuss the emotional and strategic aspects of selling a business and how successful sales really comes down to aligning the interests of both the seller and the buyer. We also talk about the hot trend of institutional money pouring into private companies, especially in tech and AI, and how emerging technologies can boost a company's value and more! Today we discuss... Kempton Schwab's background as a retired executive operator and business owner, now working in advisory. Kempton's story about his experience in selling his company. How successful transactions are rooted in aligning the seller's and buyer's motivations. The importance of business stability, customer base, and technology in determining company valuation and multiples. The role of AI and emerging technologies in enhancing existing value propositions rather than creating new ones. Public and private markets, and the opportunities and challenges in technology and traditional sectors. The trend of institutional money chasing private companies and how it impacts valuations and the industry. The significance of critical thinking and understanding a company's value proposition before investing. Practical takeaways for investors and business owners considering selling their companies. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/vc-investing-kempton-schwab-638 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Powell was in Jackson Hole last week and today we discuss some Jackson Hole Revelation on the future of the market and interest. We also talk the current election and all of the ins and outs of election strategy. Then, we veer into how social media is changing elections and how it feels like people, especially comedians, are holding back more than they used to because of cancel culture. We reflected on how trends, whether in culture or finance, often swing to extremes before eventually balancing out. Today we discuss... How neither major party is focusing on policy; Trump's policies are somewhat known, but Harris has been silent. The current strategy of staying silent and letting the press handle the narrative reflects a shift in political tactics. There is concern about electing a candidate without clear policy positions or public discourse. Social media has heightened expectations for political figures to be vocal and transparent. Criticisms of Harris include skepticism about her ability to change policies while already in office. Historical examples, such as Johnson and Kennedy, show that VPs may have differing policies from Presidents. The pendulum of cultural and political trends often swings from one extreme to the other, influencing market behavior. Social media and current cultural dynamics affect how comedy and political commentary are received. The market trends, such as real estate prices, are influenced by broader economic conditions and cultural shifts. Reversion to the mean is a concept where extreme market movements often correct back to an equilibrium. Understanding financial trends and market cycles can help in making informed investment decisions. What Powell discussed at Jackson Hole. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/jackson-hole-revelation-637 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Roger Silk joins us to discuss TIPs, treasuries, and inflation, and more! He explains the nuances of the repo market, potential risks, and its role in the broader financial system. Silk also touches on the impact of interest rates on asset values and the banking sector from his time at World Bank. Silk also discusses complex financial products like treasury inflation-protected securities! Join us today as we discuss... Roger discusses his background, including his PhD in applied economics and founding of Sterling Foundation Management. Roger describes his work at the World Bank, focusing on treasury operations and the repo market. The potential problems in the repo market, including issues during financial crises. How interest rates impact asset valuations and bank profits, particularly during periods of zero interest rates. The role of human capital in risk assessment and the importance of individual goals in portfolio management. The risks associated with inflation, especially in relation to complex financial instruments like TIPS. The challenges and complexities of understanding and investing in TIPS as an inflation hedge. Alternative assets like gold and farmland, distinguishing between gold as money and farmland as an investment. Roger's book The Investor's Dilemma Decoded. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/treasuries-and-inflation-roger-silk-636

A lot of volatility exists in the stock market right now, but did you know you can actually benefit from it? Today we talk about how market reactions are driven by expectations versus reality, with surprises like unexpected Fed actions causing significant volatility. Political uncertainty certainly has an impact on the market and you can't even rely on Wall Street predictions. That's why it's crucial to understand market sentiment and how everyone's collective behavior influences market trends over trying to predict the market itself! Today we discuss... The recent stock market volatility and the aim to understand it without getting bogged down in specifics. How market reactions often follow Fed announcements, but these are just correlations, not direct causes. How volatility can also be triggered by political uncertainty, such as the potential outcomes of upcoming elections. The Fed's future rate moves and their unexpectedness contribute significantly to market shifts. Wall Street predictions can be inaccurate, with current expectations showing a high chance of rate cuts in the future despite past errors. People don't fully realize inflation's impact because it is largely contained. Personal inflation rates, such as grocery bills or car prices, may be much higher than CPI figures suggest. The old methods of addressing inflation, like investing in the S&P 500, might not be effective against current "silent inflation." The currency market is massive, and the carry trade is typically suited for large institutions rather than individual investors. Lumber prices have dropped significantly, correlating with the housing market and broader economic conditions. Housing affordability has decreased, with higher income levels required to afford typical homes in many markets. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/volatility-exists-635

Do you have proper protection for your portfolio? If not, gold might be the solution for you. Rich Checkan is here today to discuss the "stealth gold market." He delves into the cultural differences in gold ownership between Eastern and Western investors. He also touches on the distinct dynamics of the silver market and the industrial uses and market behavior of platinum and palladium. We also discuss the manipulation of gold prices and the broader implications of the massive money printing and national debt on the gold market. Today we discuss... Asset Strategies International deals in gold, silver, platinum, palladium, bars, coins, certificates, and rare coins. The current gold market is described as a "stealth gold market" due to its consolidation and recent breakout. Western investors are hesitant to buy gold at high prices, while Eastern buyers and central banks support the market. There has been a significant transfer of gold from the West to the East. The premiums for gold are higher on the Shanghai Gold Exchange compared to the London Exchange. Central banks are buying gold to reduce their dollar reserves and increase holdings in gold. The silver market is also seeing interest, with silver prices at about 50-60% of their all-time highs. Platinum and palladium are primarily industrial metals, used in jewelry and catalytic converters. The demand for silver is expected to increase due to its use in green technologies like solar panels. The gold market is influenced by various factors, including geopolitical issues and economic concerns. Central bank buying of gold has been high due to concerns about the US dollar and debt. The relationship between debt, currency, and gold is often misunderstood, leading to underestimation of gold's value. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/protection-for-your-portfolio-rich-checkan-634 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

There's new investing framework you need to be aware of! Join us today as we discuss what it is. Today we chat about the recent performance of the S&P 500, the current economic system, which is reliant on money printing by the Federal Reserve, and the lack of viable alternatives to this system. We need to be able to adapt to new information and market conditions, even when it challenges previous assumptions. Investors to be flexible in their thinking and strategy. Join us as we discuss... The S&P 500 has seen a strong upward trend but experienced a recent decline. Recent job numbers were significantly lower than expected, causing disappointment. The current economic environment is complex, with inflation subsiding but not expected to return drastically. The system heavily relies on quantitative easing (money printing), with no easy solution to stop it without severe consequences. Asset prices, including stocks and real estate, are largely influenced by the Fed's balance sheet. Technology and crypto are seen as the primary assets that might outperform inflation. Real estate and other traditional investments may not keep up with inflation. Changing perspectives and adapting to new information is crucial for investors. Current market conditions, including potential softening and election uncertainties, may impact future performance. The framework for understanding inflation and market dynamics is evolving, and past assumptions may no longer apply. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/new-investing-framework-633 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Bob Elliott discusses how investing in hedge funds can be for everyone! Elliott highlighted the traditional "two-and-twenty" fee structure, common in hedge funds, private equity, and other alternative assets, which can significantly erode investor returns. His firm aims to replicate these strategies, including equity long-short and global macro, using advanced machine learning to infer hedge fund positions from return data, making them accessible at lower fees for the average investor. Today we discuss... Bob's focus to bring low-cost indexing to the world of two-and-twenty, similar to the impact of stock and bond indexing. Hedge fund strategies, despite being expensive, offer good returns with lower volatility and drawdowns compared to stocks. Various hedge fund strategies include equity long-short, global macro, fixed income, and emerging market strategies. Real-time performance data helps in understanding and replicating hedge fund strategies. The current economic cycle is income-driven rather than credit-driven, making it more durable to rising interest rates. Overvaluation and high expectations suggest that now may not be the best time to invest heavily in stocks. The similarities between the current period and the 1970s highlight the importance of diversified portfolios. Factors like de-globalization, geopolitical tensions, and inflationary pressures could influence future economic dynamics. Volatility in market expectations and the reality of economic conditions contribute to the current buoyant market despite high interest rates. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/investing-in-hedge-funds-bob-elliot-632

In the financial markets, it's common to spurious correlations based on historical data. However, the economic landscape has evolved, and banks now invest more in treasuries and borrow from the Fed rather than traditional lending. This shift questions the yield curve's predictive power. Additionally, spurious correlations show absurd links between unrelated data points, emphasizing the need for critical analysis of data to avoid misleading narratives. Today we discuss... Financial markets often draw conclusions from patterns, such as the inverted yield curve predicting recessions. Today's economy differs from 30 years ago, with banks favoring treasuries over traditional lending, altering the yield curve's predictive power. Correlation does not always imply causation; the inverted yield curve's causative effect may be weakened. Spurious correlations can be humorous but highlight the pitfalls of finding meaning in random data patterns. The bond market, at $130 trillion, dwarfs the $50 trillion US stock market and $100 trillion global stock market. The increasing debt and bond market highlight the importance of access to capital. AI's impact is currently seen as limited by many CEOs, viewing it as a potential rather than immediate profit driver. Microsoft's expenses on data centers have increased significantly, reflecting the infrastructure investment for cloud and AI services. Commercial real estate faces challenges, with significant losses on properties due to rising interest rates and reduced demand. Residential real estate is also under pressure, with 41.4% of median income now spent on new mortgages, surpassing 2008 levels. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/spurious-correlations-631 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

The crypto trade continues to stay strong! Do you know where to invest? Join us for an interesting conversation with Paul Rosenberg as he shares some tips and current insights on the crypto space. Paul discusses the state of Bitcoin and Ethereum, the challenges they face, and the implications of their integration into mainstream financial systems through ETFs. He also highlights the geopolitical and economic shifts impacting the global financial landscape. Today we discuss... Paul's background in electrical construction and engineering and his time in the early cypherpunk community. His early company called Crypto Hippie that provided internet privacy. Paul's monthly newsletter at freemansperspective.com. How a majority of illicit activities use traditional currencies like the US dollar. Bitcoin has remained consistent, with its value tied to supply and demand rather than being a traditional investment vehicle. Bitcoin ETFs are emerging due to high demand, with many US citizens owning some Bitcoin. Ethereum runs smart contracts and has experienced technical challenges and governance changes. Other cryptocurrencies serve as tools for specific uses rather than investment vehicles. ETFs might pull Bitcoin into wallets over which there is some regulatory control. Bitcoin can evade currency controls, making it valuable in certain situations. The global east and south are building their own monetary systems, moving away from the US dollar. Holding physical assets and stocks in real, productive companies is advisable. The US and European corporations are vulnerable as the "third world" becomes more self-sufficient. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/crypto-trade-continues-paul-rosenberg-630 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Did you know ice baths can help you keep a cool head when the markets experience a small pullback? They have so many additional benefits you may never thought of! In this weeks episode we discuss ice baths, the market, housing data, and more. We talk about confusing and contradictory signals in current trends, the importance of being cautious during a statistically weak period in the stock market, and watching market trends closely to make informed decisions. Today we discuss... Morning routines for stress relief and energy. The confusion and contradictory signals in current financial markets. The importance of being cautious, especially during a statistically weak period for the stock market. Watching market trends closely to make informed decisions. There is a mention of a listener, Charles, who corrected an error about the company behind Three Mile Island. How the bond market is indicating that rates may drop soon. The conversation touches on the performance of various market indexes like the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and Russell 2000. They note that the market is confusing, with different sectors showing different trends. Lightening up portfolios during the current period, which is typically weak statistically. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/small-pullback-ice-baths-629

Join us today as Blake Christian reveals the secrets of Opportunity Zone funds. He's here to explain the flexibility and tax benefits of these funds. He highlights the program's role in encouraging investments in underserved communities. He also shares the challenges in navigating the rules and compares OZ funds with other tax deferral strategies like 1031 exchanges. Prepare to learn everything you've ever needed to know about OZ funds! We discuss... How OZ funds allow deferring capital gains if reinvested within 180 days, with potential tax-free appreciation if held for 10 years. Which six states do not conform to Opportunity Zone benefits. Over 8,000 census tracts qualify for Opportunity Zone investments, targeting underserved communities with high unemployment and welfare recipients. How OZ funds can be used for real estate and operating businesses, attracting investments into otherwise neglected areas. The complexities and potential pitfalls in structuring OZ funds, including the necessity of making proper elections and meeting improvement requirements. When combining Opportunity Zone funds with Section 1202 qualified small business stock can provide additional tax benefits. Installment sales are a simpler alternative for deferring gains but carry risks of higher future tax rates. California aggressively taxes deferred gains from 1031 exchanges and Opportunity Zones, even if the taxpayer relocates to another state. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/the-secrets-of-opportunity-zone-funds-blake-christian-628 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

We reveal the next hot trend and cover all the hot topics. We discuss free speech, political violence, and how bad ideas are necessary to recognize good ones. Additionally, we talk discuss energy consumption, the increasing demand driven by AI and the need for clean energy solutions like nuclear power. We also discuss the growth in data centers and the importance of investing in energy and technology sectors to address these trends. Today we discuss... Recent events including a Trump rally and an assassination attempt. Emphasis on the rejection of violence regardless of political affiliation. Importance of staying and engaging in political discourse rather than leaving. Free speech and the importance of hearing both good and bad ideas. The Biden administration's bill to expedite nuclear power plant regulations. Highlighting the energy consumption of AI compared to Bitcoin and the potential issues it causes. Investment opportunities in nuclear energy and data centers. Historical trends in energy consumption and the rise of renewable energy. Mention of technological advancements and their impact on energy needs. Discussion on the rapid growth of AI and its implications for energy consumption. Emphasis on the need for strategic solutions to meet growing energy demands. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/next-hot-trend-627 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Nelson Chu joins us today to discuss the rise of private credit! He's here to share how private credit emerged as a significant player post-2008 financial crisis when banks scaled back their lending. Despite his initial lack of experience in credit, Nelson was drawn to private credit for its potential to offer shorter durations, lower minimum investments, and attractive yields compared to traditional bank loans. Today we discuss... How Nelson started his career in finance, working at Merrill Lynch, Bank of America, and BlackRock. He left traditional finance to start a consulting company and then founded Percent, focusing on private credit. Non-bank lenders fulfill the ongoing demand for loans by raising money from the private credit market. How banks are finding ways to re-enter the lending market through joint ventures and leveraging other business parts. The private credit market seeing pressure due to high interest rates and increasing defaults in consumer credit. Competitive tension between banks and private credit lenders influences the cost of capital and lending rates. How Nelson's company Percent focuses more on conventional private credit opportunities rather than real estate. Lenders are being more selective in extending small business loans due to the current risk cycle. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/the-rise-of-private-credit-nelson-chu-626 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Are you losing out on good investments due to confirmation bias? We often want clear, definitive answers to how to invest, but in financial markets and social media, this can be tricky. We tend to look for information that supports what we already believe, known as confirmation bias, and social media makes this worse by feeding us content that aligns with our views, creating echo chambers. The takeaway is that while data can guide us, it doesn't provide absolute certainty, and we need to stay aware of our biases and the limitations of the information we consume. Today we discuss... Understanding data interpretation is crucial; it's not about definitive conclusions but about probabilities. Our tendency to see patterns where none may exist, like with the inverted yield curve and recessions, shows how we seek certainty. Market predictions are complex; events like the 2011 gold crash challenge simplistic explanations. Half-truths, more than outright lies, mislead us because they seem plausible but aren't entirely accurate. Social media algorithms create filter bubbles, reinforcing our biases and limiting exposure to diverse viewpoints. The influence of confirmation bias in political and social beliefs is profound, shaping our perceptions of reality. Financial beliefs, like linking money printing directly to inflation, oversimplify complex economic realities. Chart crimes and misleading visuals can distort perceptions, leading to erroneous conclusions about trends. Bitcoin's price movements post-halving illustrate the complexities of market predictions and speculative fervor. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/confirmation-bias-625 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Join us for a fascinating episode as we welcome Barry Martin, a seasoned expert in covered call option strategy. Barry shares his insights into the growing popularity of covered call writings, discussing how they have surged from $7 billion to $75 billion in just a few years. Whether you're an experienced trader or new to options, this episode offers valuable perspectives on managing risk and generating income through covered calls. Today we discuss... How the popularity of covered option writing has surged in recent years. Barry manages $1.3 billion in option overlay strategies at Sheldon Capital Management. The decline in commission costs and increased options education have contributed to the growing interest in covered call writing. Covered call writing is most beneficial in choppy, sideways markets, slightly up or down, where income generation is a key goal. Barry emphasizes that selling options in low-volatility, low-interest-rate environments is less beneficial. Barry advocates for using defensive, market-leading stocks with significant free cash flow for covered call writing. Covered call writing is misunderstood as risky by some CPAs and advisors due to a lack of education and familiarity with the strategy. Educating oneself, starting with basic strategies like covered calls, and minimizing risk are essential for successful options trading. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/the-growing-popularity-of-covered-call-option-strategy

We are here to celebrate your independence from bad investing. Today we discuss investing, political commentary, and of course the U.S. debate. Listen in for investment insights and how politics often have little impact on stock market performance. The focus is on understanding market trends, with a detailed analysis of current market performance across various sectors, highlighting that a few high-performing stocks are driving overall market gains and more. Today we discuss... The UK's new prime minister and political changes post-Brexit. The US presidential debate between Biden and Trump, with concerns about the candidates' competency. Emphasis on the lack of substance in the debate and questions about who is actually running the country. Discussion on the perceived gaslighting by political parties and media. The importance of consistent investment strategy irrespective of political changes. Market performance trends, focusing on high-performing stocks driving overall gains. Advice on the benefits of indexing and diversification in investments. Concluding thoughts on maintaining a disciplined investment approach despite market or political volatility. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/independence-from-bad-investing-623 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Patricia Roberts joins us today to discuss how to give the gift of college with a 529 plan. She has spent over two decades guiding parents on how to prepare for the high costs of higher education and avoid the burden of student loan debt. Patricia played a pivotal role in launching a nonprofit program in New York City, providing seed money for college to 200,000 public school kindergartners. Now, Patricia works with Gift of College, bringing 529 education and student loan repayment benefits to workplaces. Today we discuss... The insights and expertise of Patricia, a seasoned professional in college financial planning. How to prepare for the high cost of higher education and avoid student loan debt. How a 529 benefits can be passed to the family. How Patricia helped launch a nonprofit program in New York City that provided seed money for college to 200,000 public school kindergartners. Gift of College and how they promote 529 education and student loan repayment benefits in the workplace. Patricia's book Route 529. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/give-the-gift-of-college-patricia-roberts-622 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Douglas Heagren | Pro College Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Did you know your food choices effect your investing? Take the time to think about investing and the importance of knowing what you're getting into. Just like you should understand the food you eat, you should understand your investments. Our brains look for shortcuts, but skipping the details can lead to poor decisions. Whether it's food or stocks, doing the homework is crucial. This week we discuss... The differences in food ingredients in the US, which use artificial dyes and corn syrup, compared to other countries that use natural ingredients. How the brain's pattern recognition and shortcuts can affect investing and emphasizes the importance of doing thorough research. How few people actually do the hard work and most rely on others. The need to understand what you are investing in just like you need to understanding what you are eating. The importance of understanding market trends, particularly in gold and silver. Using caution when investing in gold miners due to their volatility and boom-bust cycles. The benefits of investing in royalty companies for their low capital requirements and consistent returns. Happy Independence Day! For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/your-food-choices-effect-your-investing-621 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/your-food-choices-effect-your-investing-621

Today we welcome Jason Crawshaw from Polaris to talk about investing in international markets. Originally from South Africa, he is now a portfolio manager here. His journey's been a rollercoaster, from business school in the US to cutting my teeth in Johannesburg's equity market. Now, for over a decade, he's called Polaris home, focusing on global value. Lately, he is locked on international plays, whether it's established or emerging markets. Learn more about the future of investing in international markets! T his week we discuss... Jason's experience in the equity market, particularly in fundamental equity analysis, with a focus on cash flow generation. How Jason's investment strategy revolves around discounted cash flow analysis, particularly focusing on maintenance cash flow adjusted for inflation. Jason's preference for international markets over the US due to perceived value opportunities. The dominance of the US in global equity markets and the potential overvaluation compared to other regions. Regions like Europe and their economic challenges, energy concerns, and regulatory issues. Emerging markets: past enthusiasm and current challenges, especially in China. Africa as a frontier market with demographic advantages but also currency and governance challenges, making it difficult for equity investors. The importance of capital allocation and shareholder returns, and the impact of management decisions on stock performance. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/investing-in-international-markets-jason-crawshaw-629 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Megan Gorman | The Wealth Intersection Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Did you know that Willie Mayes can teach us a lot about the stock market? Baseball and investing may have more in common than you think! We talk market statistics, market inefficiencies and arbitrage -- once a profitable strategy is widely known, it loses effectiveness due to widespread adoption (think the short squeeze on GameStop). We also discuss the potential decline of the US dollar's dominance as the world's reserve currency and the direction energy sources may go in the future. It's important to be financially prepared! Today we discuss... Market statistics and sports statistics can be loosely tied together, with both requiring consideration of multiple metrics for evaluation. There is no single metric that defines the best stock or the greatest player in sports. Efficient market theory suggests that market inefficiencies are arbitraged out over time as more people exploit them. How hedge funds often exploit small arbitrage opportunities, but these opportunities may disappear once they are widely known. Momentum trading strategies can lose effectiveness as more market participants adopt them. How some investors track congressional actions and use them as indicators for investment decisions, but this strategy may lose effectiveness over time. Roaring Kitty's success with GameStop illustrates how retail investors can challenge institutional investors by exploiting publicly available information. The Senate passed a nuclear bill aimed at reducing costs and expediting the permitting process for nuclear energy projects. The expiration of a 50-year trade agreement with Saudi Arabia signals a shift in global power dynamics and highlights the need for the US to transition to alternative energy sources. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/willie-mayes-can-teach-us-619 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Today we discuss the financial industry and the cycles of business. We have Liz Young from SoFi here to discuss her role in producing investment-related content across various platforms. The strategist shares insights into her career journey, emphasizing the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. Liz advises young professionals to explore different roles to discover their interests. We also talk market dynamics, Fed policies, and inflation! Join us as we discuss... Investment-related content across various platforms for SoFi. Macroeconomic trends and their impact on capital markets. The importance of seizing opportunities in one's career. The significance of workplace environment and personal skills for career satisfaction. Embracing discomfort and learning from mistakes early in one's career. The unpredictability of the finance industry and the need for resilience. The influence of market conditions on personal happiness and resilience. Considering the business cycle as a mental model for navigating market volatility. The challenges of identifying the current phase of the business cycle. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Today's markets have been quite uneventful, but consumer sentiment leads the way! Consumer confidence is down, potentially influenced by upcoming election concerns and negative economic rhetoric. The breadth of stocks above their 50-day moving averages is low, indicating a bearish tone, despite strong performance in the tech sector, particularly semiconductors, driven largely by Nvidia. This uneven performance highlights the importance of staying agile and adaptable in investment strategies, as the economic environment is constantly shifting. Today we discuss... How the markets have been quite boring due to a lack of significant movement. The Dow Jones Industrial Average has been almost flat. Only twelve stocks in the entire S&P 500 have hit new 52-week highs recently. There are concerns about the economy and potential election results influencing market sentiment. Real estate prices continue to rise despite affordability issues. Growth stocks, particularly in the tech sector, are outperforming value stocks. The US stock market is outperforming the rest of the world. Modern Dow Theory suggests semiconductors are the new transports, indicating their importance in the current market. Many indicators suggest caution is warranted in the current market environment. Technology and AI, particularly companies like Nvidia, are driving market performance. Inflation has significantly increased the cost of living, requiring much higher incomes to maintain the same standard of living as in the past. For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/consumer-sentiment-leads-the-way-617 Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Douglas Heagren | ProCollege Planners Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast

Do you think there are conspiracies in common financial practices? I do. Michael Edesess thinks so too. He thinks there may be some conspiracies with pensions as well. He explains why strategies like rebalancing, diversification, mean variance optimization, and tax loss harvesting might not be as beneficial as they seem. Michael sheds light on how institutions like Ivy League endowments and public pension funds waste billions on active management that underperforms simple market indices, driven by the industry's profit motives rather than investors' best interests. Today we discuss... Michael's unexpected entry into the finance world, influenced by a classmate's suggestion to explore a brokerage firm using mathematics. Why the finance industry and its practices, such as rebalancing and tax loss harvesting, fundamentally flawed. Michael's perspective on rebalancing, challenging the belief that it improves investment returns, and why he believes this advice is often misguided. The misconception of diversification in mutual funds and clarify the real benefits of diversification according to Harry Markowitz's theory. Modern portfolio theory (MPT) and Michael's critique of its practical application, especially concerning mean variance optimization. Why tax loss harvesting is not as beneficial as commonly perceived and the costs associated with it. Robo advisors, their cost efficiency, and why Michael believes they still don't offer significant value over simple index funds. The inefficiency and high costs of investment management for Ivy League endowment funds and public pension funds, labeling the industry as a conspiracy of inefficiency. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Barbara Friedberg | Barbara Friedberg Personal Finance Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/conspiracies-in-common-financial-practices-michael-edesess-616