Thoughtful Money with Adam Taggart

Milton Berg, founder of MB Advisors and expert in macroeconomic research, shares groundbreaking insights on market dynamics. He discusses why he believes it's not time to panic sell despite extreme valuations and forecasts higher volatility by 2026. Milton unveils his proprietary buy/sell model, highlighting its impressive 18.5% annualized return since 1957. Listeners learn about specific entry and exit strategies, the importance of rare market patterns, and how retail investors can benefit from this model.

Carson Block, founder of Muddy Waters Research and a prominent activist short-seller, shares his insights on the current market landscape. He discusses the dangers of traditional shorting strategies in a context of high valuations, cautioning investors about the risks. Block emphasizes the fragility of passive inflows and explores potential triggers for market reversals, like labor withdrawal trends. He also highlights systemic risks in the insurance sector and the geopolitical shifts benefiting countries like Vietnam and India, shedding light on the evolving economic narrative.

Michael Lebowitz, a savvy portfolio manager and financial commentator, dives into the intriguing shift in markets as capital moves from big tech to previously overlooked sectors like value and small caps. He discusses the potential for a 'Great Rotation' and shares insights on future GDP growth, bonds, and inflation. Their conversation also touches on low volatility, technical market signals, and the debate over the silver market's current frenzy. A thought-provoking exploration of what might shape your portfolio’s future!

Ryan Bohl, a Mideast analyst at RANE, provides an incisive look at the current turmoil in Iran, fueled by economic collapse and political strife. He discusses the scale of protests, highlighting their significance compared to past uprisings. Bohl addresses U.S. foreign policy, including Trump's conditional support for protesters and potential tariffs. The conversation delves into public sentiment within Iran, examining the generational divide and aspirations for reform. Bohl concludes with insights on the complex dynamics of regime change and the region's stability.

In this discussion, Stephanie Pomboy, a macro strategist and founder of MacroMavens, shares her insights on the booming commodities market and the intense geopolitical landscape. She predicts a wild ride in 2026, driven by aggressive fiscal policies and potential inflation. Stephanie argues for holding onto precious metals amid dollar pressures and discusses how global events could reshape energy flows. She also raises concerns about social stability and urges building personal resilience amidst shifting market dynamics.

In this insightful conversation, Ed Dowd, founder of Phinance Technologies, delves into the potential for a significant market downturn by 2026 due to 'kooky' valuations and economic weakness. He discusses the housing market's overvaluation, critiquing current policies aimed at propping it up. Dowd also examines geopolitical shifts, China's risky growth outlook, and the likely impacts on global trade. With warnings on tech valuations and labor market stress, he suggests necessary adjustments for future stability.

Jan van Eck, CEO of VanEck and a leading authority in asset management, shares insights on the market outlook for 2026. He discusses a 'Risk On' year with improving fiscal deficits and implications for monetary policy. Jan highlights the easing inflation pressure and the gradual impact of AI on jobs. He points out the resurgence of gold as a global currency and offers cautious views on Bitcoin, while identifying promising opportunities in private credit and select cryptocurrencies. Don’t miss his asset checklist for 2026!

Lance Roberts, a seasoned portfolio manager from RealInvestmentAdvice, shares insights on future market corrections, predicting at least two 5-10% drops in 2026 due to current market conditions. He explores the implications of recent jobs data, GDP growth, and geopolitical surprises on investor sentiment. Additionally, Lance introduces a new factor rotation model while advising cautious investment strategies. He emphasizes the importance of individual country evaluations in international equity investing and warns against the risks of speculative options trading.

Michael Howell, Founder and CEO of Crossborder Capital, is back with insights on global liquidity cycles and market trends. He predicts that liquidity has peaked, forecasting lower stock prices through 2026. Howell highlights the divergence between a stronger real economy and weakening financial markets, while cautioning investors about rising risks. He discusses asset classes to favor, emphasizing commodities and bonds, and offers advice on navigating the upcoming tough market stretch. Stay tuned for his compelling take on China’s liquidity impacts and strategies for challenging times ahead.

Neil Howe, a demographer and co-author of 'The Fourth Turning,' discusses profound changes in society and markets during the current Fourth Turning. He highlights significant themes like internal conflict and financial crashes, suggesting these could be features rather than bugs. Neil warns of extreme market valuations, emphasizing behavioral forces like FOMO driving market overshoot. He links rising inequality to political pressures and examines the social impacts of technology and AI. Lastly, he offers practical advice for personal preparedness in these uncertain times.