Just when you thought Wall Street had run out of ways to package up risky investments and slap a shiny label on them—here we go again. Today, Joe and OG break down yet another overcomplicated, high-fee, and completely unnecessary financial product. Whether it’s preying on investor fears, promising market-proof returns, or just outright nonsense, we’ll help you spot the warning signs before you end up with a portfolio full of regret.

But that’s not all. A viral TikTok tip about hiring your family members for tax benefits has been making the rounds, so we’ll dive into whether this is actually a genius tax strategy or just another case of the internet handing out half-baked financial advice.

Plus, a listener asks about breaking into financial planning, and we lay out what it really takes—beyond the certifications and credentials (spoiler: sales skills matter). And Doug brings us a trivia question about one of the greatest art heists in history, proving that sometimes the best investment is knowing how to disappear with the Mona Lisa.

Also: Joe saw ‘Wicked’ and has thoughts—mostly about how much better Wonka was.

What’s Inside Today’s Episode:

• The Latest Wall Street Gimmick: A financial product you definitely don’t need.
• Understanding Risky Investments: How to tell if an ETF, structured note, or annuity is actually worth your time.
• Hiring Family for Tax Benefits: A TikTok tax hack that might actually work—if you follow the rules.
• Trivia Time with Doug: One of the most famous art heists in history.
• Breaking Into Financial Planning: What it takes to switch careers and make it in the industry.
• Community Feedback & Upcoming Episodes: A sneak peek at what’s coming next (including our Valentine’s Day special).

Episode Highlights:

• What’s in a Name? The ridiculous branding that makes bad investment products sound good.
• Bitcoin Meets Structured Protection: The ETF that no one asked for but someone, somewhere, will buy.
• Hiring Your Kids for Tax Savings: A loophole with some very real fine print.
• How to Become a Financial Planner: Beyond certifications—why understanding people (and sales) matters.
• Doug’s Trivia: If you could steal any piece of art, what would it be? Asking for a friend.
• Joe’s ‘Wicked’ Review: Spoiler: Wonka was better.

Huge Resource Mentioned in This Episode:

• Want to learn more about structured investments? (Just kidding, you really don’t.)

Tune in now and learn how to dodge the latest Wall Street nonsense while making smarter money moves.

FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/new-crypto-etfs-1643

Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201

Enjoy!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices