The Clark Howard Podcast

Clark, a consumer finance expert, addresses listener critiques in a lively segment called Clark Stinks. He and Christa dive into the sharp rise in auto insurance rates, providing insights on why rates jumped nearly 20% last year and how used car prices influence premiums. They discuss savvy strategies for saving on car insurance and share thoughts on additional coverage options like rental car insurance and umbrella policies. Plus, tips on 529 plans for college savings and the evolving landscape of international payments add extra layers of financial wisdom.

Discover invaluable tips for mortgage and loan shoppers, focusing on the importance of OptOutPreScreen to minimize unwanted solicitations. Learn how to build credit effectively—especially for young adults and college students—to set a solid financial foundation. Hear expert insights on recognizing the risks of credit cards while managing identity theft and protecting personal information. Plus, explore the pros and cons of national versus local credit unions, ensuring you make informed choices about your financial path.

Clark, a seasoned expert in hotel loyalty programs and consumer products, shares crucial insights on the significant devaluation of hotel points. He explains why brand loyalty is essential for some but not worth it for others. Clark also provides a candid update on laundry detergent sheets, revealing their disappointing performance and urging consumers to reevaluate their choices. Additionally, he discusses travel strategies and the intricacies of trip insurance, offering valuable advice for those looking to optimize their travel experiences.

Dive into the crucial topic of saving amidst rising consumer spending. Learn about the alarming trend of decreasing savings rates in America. Explore the dangers of Ponzi schemes and hear real-life examples of scams that have cost investors millions. Discover tips for making informed financial choices, including smart savings strategies and travel communication options. Stay vigilant against investment traps while building a more secure financial future!

Discover the hidden pitfalls of gift cards, including security risks and the latest protective legislation aiming to prevent scams. Explore the alarming rise of ATM fees, with tips on how to avoid paying excessive charges. Learn about the evolution of ATM usage and why switching to credit unions might save you money. Plus, hear cautionary tales of travel troubles and get insights on making smarter financial choices.

Clark, a renowned financial expert, tackles changes in real estate commission structures post-antitrust case, empowering buyers with more negotiating power. He clears up confusion about the evolving homebuying landscape, emphasizing the importance of understanding agent compensation. Joining him is Christa, a contributor who shares listener feedback during the 'Clark Stinks' segment, bringing in candid critiques and advice. Together, they shed light on navigating today's complex real estate market and making informed financial choices.

Kim Komando, a renowned digital advisor known for her expertise in online security and technology, joins Clark to tackle vital topics in tech. They discuss the evolution of password management, emphasizing advanced security measures over traditional passwords. Kim shares insights on the best privacy-focused search engines like DuckDuckGo and Brave, while also exploring encrypted email alternatives to Gmail. Listeners will also appreciate practical tips for upgrading their iPhones and making smart tech purchases.

Consumers have demanded lower prices and we’re seeing results! Manufacturing is slowing due to oversupply in many categories. Clark tells you where prices are trending down, and which retailers have responded to consumer signals in the marketplace with lower prices. Also today, with the arrival of fall sports - a big warning about something that could make your money disappear if you aren’t careful. Buying Opportunity: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Sports Gambling Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: U.S. Manufacturing Activity Remains Weak Ahead of Expected Fed Rate Cuts NY Post: Dollar General shares plummet as Walmart, Target take bite out of profit Axios: 1 big thing: Dollar store pain Dollar General’s stock is cratering. Here’s what it says about the economy NYTimes: Consumers Are Still Bargain Shopping, Macy’s and Target Reports Show Target slashed prices. It paid off / Axios: Learnings from earnings Axios: Price Cuts Are Back: Doling out discounts Sales at stores are suddenly surging in the US economy’s latest show of strength Americans are still shopping. They’re just going to Walmart How To Open a Roth IRA Nanny Taxes and Payroll Services | Poppins Payroll NYTimes: We All Live in Vegas Now Axios: Sports betting replaces stocks What is Gambling Disorder? National Council on Problem Gambling: Home Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling How gambling affects the brain and who is most vulnerable to addiction Best 529 College Savings Plans By State Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoicesPublic.com+Public Investing Disclosure: Public Investing offers a High-Yield Cash Account where funds from this account are automatically deposited into partner banks where they earn interest and are eligible for FDIC insurance; Public Investing is not a bank. See public.com/#disclosures-main for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Team Clark is getting many questions about the recent massive data breach, possibly the second largest breach in history and one that includes social security numbers. Find out what you need to do about the National Public Data Breach. Also, Clark discusses how there’s a right way and a wrong way for companies to implement dynamic pricing. Evidently, some companies are taking the practice way too far. Data Breach Guidance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Dynamic Pricing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: National Public Data Breach: One of the Largest Data Breaches in History Affects Billions DATA BREACH GUIDE - Clark.com Credit Lock vs. Credit Freeze: What's the Difference? How to Freeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion LA Times: Massive data breach that includes Social Security numbers may be even worse than suspected NYTimes: What to Know About the Latest Social Security Number Breach Nearly 3 Billion People Hacked in National Public Data Breach. What You Need to Know Seven Things to Do Right Away If You're a Victim of a Data Breach Data broker suggests fraud alerts after Social Security number breach [The Washington Post] Our data isn’t safe. Resist giving it up whenever you can. E-Verify: Home DOT-File a Consumer Complaint Submit a complaint | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [The Washington Post] Anger over Oasis ticket prices sparks U.K. review of dynamic pricing Companies love dynamic pricing... customers not so much World's Largest 3D-Printed Neighborhood Is Almost Finished In Texas These concrete homes want to take over your subdivision Clark.com resources Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com Clark.com daily money newsletter Consumer Action Center Free Helpline: 636-492-5275 Learn more about your ad choices: megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wes Moss, a fiduciary financial advisor and managing partner at Capital Investment Advisors, joins Christa to tackle pressing investing questions. They discuss the pitfalls of market timing, revealing how missing just the best 10 days can dramatically hurt long-term returns. Wes introduces the 'dry powder principle,' emphasizing the need for a financial buffer to handle market fluctuations. They also explore the strategic timing of Social Security benefits, weighing the pros and cons of early versus delayed claims.