Money Tree Investing

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