Real Money Pros - (11/24/24) - 

Real Money Pros - (11/18/2024) - 

Real Money Pros (11/09/24) - RMDs, Tax-Loss Harvesting, & Delaying SS Ben Barzideh and Jeremiah Bates start with Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Tax Strategies. Understanding this is crucial, as these distributions can significantly impact your tax liability in retirement. They discuss strategies to minimize taxes, including tax-efficient withdrawals and tax-loss harvesting, helping you reduce your taxable income and keep more of your hard-earned savings. Delaying Social Security can increase your monthly payout, providing a more secure income stream in retirement. But when do you do that? Plus, we touch on the balance between diversification and long-term care planning. We also compare the pros and cons of long-term care insurance versus self-insurance through savings or annuities, giving you the tools to make informed decisions for a secure retirement.

Real Money Pros (11/02/24) - Ben and Brian dive into the significant impact of the upcoming election on economic conditions, exploring how potential changes in tax brackets and government spending could reshape individual financial landscapes and the broader economy. We also discuss the recent market reactions to disappointing earnings from major tech companies and inflation data, which have introduced volatility and uncertainty into investment strategies. Additionally, we break down the critical decision between contributing to a Roth 401(k) versus a traditional 401(k). We also emphasize the strategic advantages of Roth conversions, particularly in anticipation of potential tax increases. As the year comes to a close, we highlight the importance of proactive financial planning, including checking beneficiary designations and utilizing tax-loss harvesting strategies to optimize your financial position.

REAL MONEY PROS - 10-27-2024

REAL MONEY PROS - 10-19-2024 -

The team dives into the crucial topic of inflation and its impact on fixed-income investments. With inflation rates on the rise, it’s essential for investors to understand how this affects assets like bonds. We emphasize the importance of considering inflation when making investment decisions…Key insights include the necessity of diversification and understanding market risks, as well as aligning investments with individual financial goals and risk tolerance. We discuss various retirement account strategies, focusing on IRAs, Roth IRAs, and 401(k)s, particularly regarding tax implications and strategic withdrawals. Lastly, we highlight the significance of selecting the right mix of investments to ensure a stable income stream throughout retirement.

Ben and Brian discuss potential geopolitical impacts on markets, particularly the recent missile attacks in the Middle East. These events could drive oil prices higher, which, in turn, may fuel inflation and affect economic stability. Outside current events, they cover the importance of Roth conversions as we approach year-end. This is the perfect time to assess whether converting pre-tax IRA funds to a Roth IRA is right for you, especially with tax rates expected to rise! However, be aware of its impact on Medicare and Social Security—Roth conversions can increase your modified adjusted gross income, potentially leading to higher Medicare premiums and increased taxation on Social Security benefits. Have you looked at emerging markets recently? We may see an opportunity.

Ben, Brian, and Jeremiah explore China's recent stimulus package, which aims to bolster its economy by cutting reserve requirements and supporting the stock market. This move could spark growth not just in China but also in global and emerging markets, particularly in commodities and infrastructure. Next, they discuss utility stocks. With rising electricity demand driven by AI and electric vehicles, utilities present a stable, income-oriented investment opportunity. Remarkably, these stocks have even outpaced the S&P 500 this year. The conversation then shifts to the evolving landscape of energy infrastructure, emphasizing the potential for investments in renewable sources like solar and nuclear power to meet increasing electricity demands. Finally, the guys underscore the importance of estate planning. Proper strategies, such as beneficiary designations and trusts, can help manage inheritances efficiently while mitigating tax liabilities.

REAL MONEY PROS - (09-21-24) - Matt and Jeremiah discuss the Federal Reserve's larger-than-expected interest rate cut, which is set to impact various asset classes, benefiting value stocks and small-cap companies while creating refinancing opportunities. We emphasize the importance of reevaluating investment strategies in light of changing interest rates. With fixed income landscapes shifting, real estate and value stocks may offer more favorable returns. We also tackle the complexities of 401(k) rollovers, stressing that this decision isn’t one-size-fits-all. Individual circumstances, such as required minimum distributions (RMDs) and ongoing employment, play a significant role in making informed choices. Lastly, with year-end approaching, proactive tax planning is more critical than ever. We encourage you to consider strategic adjustments, including Roth conversions, to maximize tax efficiency and ensure your financial future is secure.

REAL MONEY PROS - (09-14-2024) - In this episode, we dive into crucial financial topics impacting your retirement and estate planning. We start by analyzing the Federal Reserve's potential rate changes and their influence on inflation and investments, such as bonds and real estate. Next, we discuss how to adjust your investment strategies in response to market shifts, emphasizing a data-driven approach for managing portfolios effectively. We then cover essential retirement and tax strategies, including upcoming workshops on optimizing income and preparing for tax law changes. Our focus shifts to estate planning, highlighting the importance of wills, trusts, and proper beneficiary designations to minimize estate taxes. Lastly, we explore gifting strategies to reduce estate size while alive and protect heirs from potential issues like divorce or public assistance claims.

Ben Barzideh and Jeremiah Bates dive into recent market turbulence and economic data. They explore the latest jobs report, highlighting revisions to previous data and its impact on equities, with the S&P 500 and NASDAQ facing significant declines. The duo discusses how these employment trends might influence Federal Reserve decisions and potential recession fears. They also tackle the recent un-inversion of the yield curve, explaining its historical significance as a recession indicator and what this shift from an inverted state might signal for future economic conditions. What is “sequence of returns risk”? The discussion focuses on how poor market performance early in retirement can jeopardize long-term financial stability, stressing the importance of understanding this risk for a secure retirement.

In today’s podcast, we explore Nvidia's critical role in AI and its impact on the stock market, noting its impressive earnings and the geopolitical risks tied to its partnership with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). We also examine the Federal Reserve's expected interest rate cuts and their effects on mortgage rates, the housing market, and various investment sectors like real estate and small caps. The discussion includes recent investment rotations from tech stocks to small caps and commercial real estate due to interest rate and inflation changes. Finally, we cover tax-efficient strategies like gain harvesting, which helps investors in lower tax brackets avoid capital gains taxes and evaluate the pros and cons of using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to pay off a car loan, considering interest rates and asset depreciation.

In this episode, we start by analyzing the Federal Reserve's recent interest rate decisions and their impact on bond yields, the stock market, and the broader economy. We explore a potential generational buying opportunity in the bond market, driven by expected interest rate cuts and the anticipated rebound in bond prices. In-service non-hardship withdrawals – which allow employees to roll over part of their 401(k) into an IRA for greater investment flexibility. We explain IRS rule 72T, which enables those under 59 ½ to make penalty-free withdrawals from their IRA through substantially equal periodic payments. Finally, we highlight the Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) strategy, offering tax benefits when withdrawing company stock from a 401(k).

Market Trends, REIT Insights, and Tax Tips for 2024 (08/17/2024)  In this episode, we tackle recent market volatility, offering tips on staying disciplined and avoiding emotional decision-making. Next, we explore Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), examining their performance, yields, and the effects of interest rate changes on their value. We then break down Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs), highlighting their benefits, including immediate partial income tax deductions and capital gains tax avoidance, while also discussing their role in future charitable giving. Finally, we discuss the tax implications for service workers’ tips, covering potential changes in taxation, the importance of accurate tip reporting, and how it affects FICA taxes and eligibility for tax credits and subsidies.

MONEY HOUR RADIO - (08-11-2024)

MONEY HOUR RADIO - (08-04-2024)

MONEY HOUR RADIO - 07-28-2024

Money Hour Radio (07/11/24) -

Money Hour Radio (07/14/24) - 

1. Update on Economic Outlook -- Weight of the Evidence – The Good and the Bad. 2. Examining the Market Impacts of the First Presidential Debate (What Happens If Biden’s Replaced?) 3. The Best Way For Kids To Save. 4a. Regards? Sincerely? All The Best?  4b. The ERISA Rule That Can Disinherit Your Children.

1. Why NVDA Is Falling and What It Means for Markets. 2. Are the Four Pillars Of This Rally Still Intact? 3. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD). 4a. An Ominous Warning About the Current Market Breadth. 4b. How to Potentially Save Big on Taxes in The Goldilocks Zone.

1. Is Disinflation Still Positive for Markets? 2. What Is the Widow’s Penalty? 3. Benefits Of an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust ( ILIT ). 4a. This Spot-On Recession Indicator If Flashing Warning. 4b. Beneficiary Designation Mistakes Can Be Costly.

1. What May’s Good CPI Report and Fed Messaging Means for Markets. 2. Analysis of The FOMC Meeting and Their Decision on Rates. 3. In-Service Rollover from 401(k) Plans. 4a. Mortgage Rates Are Down, But Housing Still a Mess. 4b. The QBI Deduction May Hurt Some Retirement Plans for Business Owner.

1. What Is the Smart Market (Bonds) Telling Us About Recession Risks? 2. The Achilles Heel In Modern Portfolio Theory. 3. HSAs Can Increase Your Retirement Savings. 4a. Jobs Numbers. 4b. Estate Planning Is Not Just For The Rich.

1. Our Thoughts on This Market. 2. Fed’s Getting Concerned About Rising Delinquency Rates. 3. Tax Advantages of a Charitable Remainder Trust. 4a. Will the Trump Verdict Affect the Markets? 4b. 3 Ways to Make Money in Company Stock.

1. How Important Is AI To This Market? 2. The Last Bear Capitulated. 3. How to Avoid the Time and Expense of Probate. 4a. FOMC Minutes from Last Meeting. 4b. Avoiding the Headaches of Separate Trusts for Married Couples.

1. A Busy Week of Economic Data. 2. Move Over Mag-7, Here Come The GRANOLAS. 3. The Home Tax Gain Exclusion. 4a. Cozzie Lives. 4b. 6 Costly Retirement Planning Mistakes.

1. The Most Important Long-Term Indicator for the Markets. 2. What Could Make This Pullback Worse? 3. More People Are Giving Money Away While Alive. 4a. 3 Reasons Taxpayers Get Notices From the IRS. 4b. How to Possibly Pay 0% in Taxes on Your Taxable Investment Gains.

1. Analysis Of This Week’s Fed Meeting. 2. GDP and Jobs Down, But Inflation Up. 3. Key Facts on the Roth IRA 5 Year Rule. 4a. Powell Says He Doesn’t See the “Stag” or the “Flation”! 4b. Is Downsizing in Retirement Right for You?

1. The Most Important Long-Term Indicator for the Markets. 2. What Could Make This Pullback Worse? 3. More People Are Giving Money Away While Alive. 4a. 3 Reasons Taxpayers Get Notices From the IRS. 4b. How to Possibly Pay 0% in Taxes on Your Taxable Investment Gains.

1. Thoughts on the Israel and Iran/Israel Conflict. 2. How High Can Gold Go? 3. What to Do Financially When One Spouse Retires? 4a. Why Is Saving Important? 4b. Secure Act 2.0 – Changes to Retirement Plan Payouts for Beneficiaries.

1. The Most Important Short-Term Market Indicator. 2. What Does the Hot CPI Report Mean for Markets? 3. Different Beneficiaries Subject to Different Tax Rules. 4a. Where to Find Rate Cut Probabilities? 4b. The Pros and Cons of Rolling Over a Company Plan.

1. Why the Falling Japanese Yen Matters? 2. Assessing and Ranking Market Risks as We Start Q2. 3. Do I Need to Pay Estimated Tax? 4a. What Countries Are the Happiest? 4b. Working and Taking Social Security – Earnings Test.

1. The Great Central Bank Policy Reversal Kicks Off. 2. Retirement Crisis Faces Government and Corporate Pensions. 3. The Powerful Inherited IRA. 4a. Could the Baltimore Bridge Collapse Spark A Rebound in Inflation? 4b. Senior Marriage and Social Security:  Rules to Know.

1. Analysis of This Week’s March FOMC Meeting. 2. The Fed’s “Dovish Upgrade” Dilemma. 3. Tax Loss Harvesting. 4a. A Reminder About Scams. 4b. How to Potentially Invest in a Roth, Even When You Make Too Much to Do So.

1)  February’s CPI report and Conflicting Economic Data. 2)  Presidential Elections and the Market. 3)  72t Distributions – Taking Income before 59 1/2 without a 10% Penalty. 4a)  Student Loans Are Now Easier to Discharge in Bankruptcy. 4b)  One of The Best Ways to Give to Charity.

1) The “Teflon” Market & Fed Chief Powell’s Testimony Analysis. 2) Why the Tech Sector Is Like A Modern Day Gold Rush. 3) Potential Tax Advantages Of a Family Limited Partnership (FLP)? 4a) The National Debt Is Huge! How Much Is Too Much? 4b) Beneficiary Designation Mistakes Can Be Costly.

1) How Might a 2nd Trump Presidency Impact Stocks? 2) Could China’s Commercial Real Estate Problems Exasperate Our Own Troubles? 3) Am I Over Insured? 4a) January’s Inflation Report Met Expectations. 4b) Financial Benefits of Marriage for Retirees.

1. NVDA’s Blowout Earnings & Fed Minutes From Their January FOMC Meeting. 2. How the Magnificent Seven and the Kansas City Chiefs Are Similar. 3. The Home Tax Gain Exclusion. 4a Is China’s Stock Market Finally Bottoming Out? 4b Secure Act 2.0 Updates in 2024 – Four Must Know Items.

1. Was Tuesday’s Hot CPI the Start of a Pullback in Stocks? 2. Is NYCB A Canary in the Commercial Real Estate Coal Mine? 3. Benefits of an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT). 4. An Important Trading Range to Watch Regarding the 10-year Treasury Yield. 5. Six Costly Retirement Planning Mistakes.

1. The Market Is Getting Noisier. 2. Labor Market Not Adding Up. 3. HSAs Can Increase Your Retirement Savings. 4a. New York Community Bank’s Problems Continue and Spreading. 4b. Estate Planning Is Not Just for the Rich.

1. Analysis of the Fed Meeting This Week. 2. Large-Cap and Technology Making New Highs, While Small-Caps Are Still in a Bear Market. 3. Should I invest in My Company’s Traditional 401k or Roth 401k?  4a. Is New York Community Bank Something We Need to Watch? 4b. Protect Your Legacy to Your Children from a Previous Marriage with the QTIP Trust.

1. Earnings or GDP — Which Is a Better Gauge of the Economy? 2. Why Are Chinese Stocks Crashing? 3. Tax Advantages of a Charitable Remainder Trust. 4a. Do We Chase the Market Here? 4b. Use Your Tax Bracket To Reallocate Investment Income Into Tax Savings.

Is Sentiment Getting Overly Bullish? Does January Predict the Stock Market’s Direction? Help your Children Become Investors. China’s Stock Market Is In Free Fall. The QBI Deduction May Ruin Retirement Plans for Business Owners.

December’s CPI Report – Is the Fed Being Too Dovish? What’s Your Risk Number? In-Service Rollover from 401(k) Plans. And We’re Off…To a Slow Start. Avoiding the Headaches of Separate Trusts for Married Couples.

Is the Elusive Soft Landing All but Certain? Be careful… Is the Elusive Soft Landing All but Certain? (Continued) Key Facts on the Roth IRA 5 Year Rule. When Everyone’s Being Greedy, Be Fearful. Ways to Make Money in Company Stock.

2024 Outlook: Two Important Differences. Long-dated US Treasury Bonds Have Entered a Bull Market. How to Avoid the Time and Expense of Probate. Why Is the Fed Thinking About Rate Cuts? Avoiding the Headaches of Separate Trusts for Married Couples.

Why Has the Market Surged Lately? What Are GLP-1 Drugs and Why Do They Matter to the Markets? Traditional Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage Plans. Ways to Potentially Fix Social Security’s Future Shortfall. How to Potentially Save Big on Taxes in The Goldilocks Zone.

MONEY HOUR RADIO (12-17-23) -