Investing Sense™

In recent shows, Bob and Andy talked about the bright future of technology, but today, they dive even deeper into the massive opportunities of the new “digital” economy and what it means for American investors. Also, with tax deadlines fast approaching, our resident tax expert Ed Lyon talks about the changing tax landscape. Plus, investment analyst Bill Tracy joins the show to share his valuable insights on current market trends and whether recent volatility presents a buying opportunity.

As the market continues on the path to recovery, Bob and Andy revisit Bill Miller’s call for a “melt up” in stocks. Also, the guys tackle a number of calls and emails about target-date funds and Andy breaks down a recent controversial news story about these funds that are common in 401ks and other retirement plans. Plus, an insurance salesperson emails the show to confront Andy about his anti-annuity stance!

Bob and Andy learn a valuable lesson from Shark Tank: the experts are often wrong! Even though the show is strictly for entertainment, the lesson applies to news and financial media. But how can investors separate a personalized financial plan from the noise and bombardment from fear-mongering TV pundits, breaking news, and even advertising? Also, the guys look toward two important deadlines fast-approaching on the financial calendar: required minimum distributions (RMDs) and tax day.

In a society that tends to focus on the negative, Andy continues to carry the torch and point out positive trends, especially when it comes to technology and medical advances. This week, the guys blast off and look into the amazing advances in the new space race and other breakthrough technologies that are leading the way. Also, former Olympic athlete and author Alex Allred joins the show to talk about caring for aging parents.

Only two months in, and 2018 has already been a wild year for investors. From the stock market pullback and rising interest rates, to life expectancy and the risk of inflation, the guys help you make sense of what’s happening right now. Andy believes there is plenty of reason to be optimistic and offers an easy way for you to capitalize on America’s bright future.

The recent spike in market volatility has the financial media in a tizzy. But Andy has an almost controversial idea: the last few weeks in the market were actually NORMAL. Join the conversation as Bob and Andy dissect the reasons behind recent stock market activity, look at historical market corrections and dips, and explain why there is reason to see opportunity even when the media spreads fear.

Financial markets from stocks, to bonds and interest rates, to currencies are all seeing an increase in volatility over the last couple of weeks. Sometimes, in order to see where we are, we need to step back and look at where we came from. Bob and Andy offer some much-needed perspective for the recent market swings, along with practical steps and guidance for listeners after the wild ride this week.

A controversial statement from Ray Dalio, founder of the world’s largest hedge fund, might have some investors re-thinking cash holdings, but Andy reiterates why financial planning requires long-term thinking and is much more personal than a trendy soundbite. Also, listen and learn from conversations with two special guests: Trend Macrolytics Chief Investment Officer, Don Luskin, gives his view on the tax cuts and the economy, while Washington insider JT Taylor returns to chat about the current kerfuffle on Capitol Hill.

Some investors may worry the market is “too high,” others might let political views prevent executing an investment strategy, but Andy sees a lot of folks are finally looking to invest, citing the huge sums of money flowing into funds. He repeats how valuable it is to have a financial plan and fiduciary advisor by your side, along with a way to get started if you don’t know how. Plus, the Wall Street Journal recently blasted advisers and brokers for allegedly pushing high-priced products. You might be shocked by which brokers the Journal named in this story.

The S&P 500 is off to its best start in over 30 years, but the stock market isn’t the only market on the move. Now the bond market is breaking out. This begs the question: Are rising rates good or bad for stocks? Andy breaks down both sides of this question, which leads to an important realization about your portfolio and investment expectations. Plus, Olympic bobsledder Alex Allred joins the show to share her story of triumph, tragedy, and the healing power of humor.

Last year was historic for the stock market, not only because of the positive returns every month, but also because of the low volatility on which these returns were earned. The stock market is off to great start this year, but will the smooth ride continue? Plus, our live portfolio review asks the question: when is NOT taking enough risk actually a BIG risk? Also, if you’re already struggling with your resolutions, Andy gives his S.M.A.R.T. guidelines for setting goals in 2018 and beyond.

As the great Yogi Berra once said, “It’s hard to make predictions, especially about the future.” After a record-setting year in the stock market, many investors are wondering what’s next. Bob and Andy stress the importance of managing fear when it comes to financial planning. Plus, the guys reveal a free and easy way to make sure your portfolio is on the right track!

Happy New Year from Investing Sense! As we look forward to 2018, it’s always a good idea to look back and reminisce about where we’ve been. Listen along with Andy and Bob as they re-visit some of the best ideas, interviews, and insights of 2017!

Bob and Andy examine market returns through mid-December, and discuss reasons to be optimistic about the bull market heading into 2018. Also, fraud expert Kathy Bazoian Phelps joins the show to talk about Ponzi schemes and how you can protect your money. Plus, don’t miss Andy as he closes out the year with a special holiday poem…with a twist!

It’s the time of year when investors look forward to the promise of a new year, and look back at the returns of the past year. Bob and Andy take a listen to what some pundits in the financial media were predicting throughout 2017, and it turns out that fake news applies to more than just politics! But with all the reckless statements made by the media, what is an everyday investor supposed to do? Plus, Andy shares ways to avoid all-too-common holiday charity scams.