In this episode of The Ascent, Sam McGee discusses the recent US-Iran conflict and its impact on financial markets. Recorded on March 4th, Sam analyzes the February 28th strikes, the oil price surge, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He provides perspective on market resilience through historical conflicts, explains diversification strategies across US, developed international, and emerging markets, and offers guidance on maintaining a long-term investment approach during geopolitical uncertainty. Sam emphasizes that markets historically recover from geopolitical shocks and encourages viewers to stay focused on their financial plans rather than attempting to time the market.

Timeline:

0:00 - Introduction & Office Locations

0:21 - US-Iran Conflict Overview & Recording Context

0:45 - February 28th Strikes & Oil Market Response

1:07 - Market Volatility & Monitoring Key Variables

1:47 - Historical Market Resilience Through Conflicts

3:00 - Portfolio Diversification Strategy (US, Developed, Emerging Markets)

5:23 - Emerging Markets Impact & BRIC Countries

6:16 - Historical Perspective: Cold War, Libya, Venezuela

8:06 - Long-term Investment Philosophy & Market Corrections

10:04 - AI Concerns & Market Timing Discussion

11:45 - Current Market Response Analysis

12:15 - Diplomatic Resolution Updates

13:26 - Closing Remarks & Military Appreciation

Original Air Date: March 7, 2026 at 8:30am as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Contact:  www.crestmontpw.com 

Alec Walker in Houston:  831-280-5288 

Sam McGee in Boerne: 830-368-2898