The Clark Howard Podcast

Explore the upcoming shift in retirement investing as private equity makes its way into 401(k) plans. Wes Moss breaks down what private equity is and the potential it holds for diversifying investments. While he highlights the exciting returns, he also warns of the risks involved. Discover how new collective investment trusts will likely facilitate this change, and get tips on financial education for children from wealthy families. Plus, insights on Roth versus traditional 401(k)s and the dynamics of covered call ETFs are discussed.

Food prices continue to rise - and Team Clark continues to find ways to help you control those costs.  Also today, something else costing more - electricity. With winter weather on the horizon how do you keep yourself warm and avoid setting your wallet on fire? Clark discusses ways to help you use less electricity. Grocery Savings: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Power Bills: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: How to Save Money on Groceries: 22 Clever Ways Aldi products have a new look / Aldi rebrands its private-label products Credit Karma Review: Free Credit Score and More  /  How To Monitor Your Credit How To Freeze and Unfreeze Your Credit With Experian, Equifax and TransUnion How To Save Money on Utilities   /   Electrify Now Heat Pumps  /  Want a heat pump? This startup just cut the cost in half Is It Ever OK To Co-Sign a Loan With a Family Member? Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also in this episode - Home prices have inflated so much in recent years, and banks are luring home owners to tap that home equity like it’s a piggy bank. But what does this do to your overall wealth? Before you're tempted, hear what Clark has to say about HELOCs and home equity loans. Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Home Equity Decisions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Are Extended Warranties Ever Worth It? Term Life vs. Whole Life Insurance: Understanding the Difference 4 Common Scams on Cash App, Venmo and Zelle (and How To Avoid Them) What Is an HSA Account and How Does It Work? Where Should I Set Up My Health Savings Account (HSA)? Report: 10 Used Cars With Big Price Drops HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan: Similarities and Differences Home Equity Loan Calculator - Clark Howard Is a HELOC a Good Idea? The Simple Answer How To Buy a House in 9 Steps What to know about online purchases and tariffs Clark.com resources: Episode transcripts Community.Clark.com  /  Ask Clark 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

Discover new strategies for booking 2025 holiday flights and learn when high-fee travel credit cards are worth it. Clark dives into the pros and cons of popular cards like the Amex Platinum and the new Walmart CashRewards card. He also sheds light on important changes during Medicare Open Enrollment, warning about potential pitfalls with Advantage plans. Whether you're planning your next trip or reviewing healthcare options, this discussion provides valuable insights and real-world advice.

Explore the three-year bull market's future and what history suggests about its longevity. Discover why feeling financially 'set' doesn’t equate to being settled, and why peace of mind comes from a solid plan. Wes Moss dives into practical advice like portfolio rebalancing and assessing risks, tackling listener questions about mortgages, 401(k) plans, and investment strategies. He emphasizes holistic financial planning and the impact of lifestyle and taxes on achieving true financial security.

Is streaming TV becoming a must-have expense? Discover surprising stats on consumer preferences and how to save on your favorite shows. Recent price hikes, especially from Disney, are reshaping the streaming landscape with ads becoming more acceptable to viewers. Transitioning to certified pre-owned vehicles? Learn about the CPO program's origins and the importance of independent inspections before purchase. Plus, find out if car wash memberships pay off for frequent users!

Critics weigh in during Clark Stinks, sparking lively discussions about antenna choices and moving costs. Clark debunks the allure of 'free' phone offers, revealing hidden fees that can drain your wallet. They explore smart strategies for using ATMs abroad and compare college football experiences with the NFL. Tips on retirement savings using HSAs versus Roth 401(k)s round out the conversation. Expect insights on navigating the evolving streaming landscape as prices change!

Consumers are increasingly hunting for bargains, with dollar stores becoming popular across all income levels as a savvy reaction to rising prices. Meanwhile, there's a warning about fake medical ads online; scammers are leveraging AI to create deceptive endorsements that can lead to financial and health risks. Listeners are advised to be cautious with online medical claims and to consider reputable sources for health information. Additionally, tips on mortgages and virtual credit card use for subscriptions help empower savvy financial decisions.

Is inflation ultimately friend or foe for your investments? Discover the inflation range that helps stocks thrive and how it affects growth versus dividend stocks. The show also critiques the $5 million American Dream, breaking down its components like housing and kids. Learn how smart investing can lower the income needed for a comfortable retirement. Plus, get advice on life insurance and college savings strategies like 529 rollovers. Tune in for practical insights and listener questions!

A viral TikTok video proposes a strategy to amass $4 million by retirement, sparking discussions on early investments and the magic of compounding. A new tool helps personalize retirement savings calculations. Innovative housing solutions are explored, including modular apartments and software-driven microfactories that could revolutionize construction. Advanced materials like energy-efficient concrete might just be the key to addressing the housing shortage in the U.S.