The Clark Howard Podcast

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.

Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks. Also, news for first time homebuyers that changes Clark’s long time advice.  Clark Stinks: Segments 1 & 2 Buying A New Vs Used Home: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Does Escrow (in Escrow) Mean, and How Does It Work? What Clark Says You Should Do With Your I Bonds This Year New rules could reshape homebuying. Here’s what it means for you. Clark.com - CELL PHONES Best Phone Plans: Get Exactly What You Want at the Cheapest Price Phone Plan Finder – Find the Best Plan For You - Clark.com Zelle scams prompt federal probe into whether banks are doing enough to protect customers Online Defensive Driving Course From AARP Driver Safety Defensive Driving Courses & Traffic School | DriveSafe Online® New homes are getting smaller. That could be big news for first-time buyers Axios: New houses now cost less per square foot than old houses Axios: End of hallways Should You Respond to Class-Action Lawsuits? What Is an ETF? Axios: How action against hidden junk fees affects your wallet 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

This time, Wes Moss, a fiduciary financial advisor and managing partner at Capital Investment Advisors, joins to break down the classic 60/40 portfolio and the 4% rule. He argues that these time-honored strategies still hold significant value despite modern skepticism. Wes emphasizes the importance of diversification and regular portfolio reassessment in today's volatile market. Listeners also gain insights on retirement savings options like the SIMPLE IRA, ensuring informed decision-making for a secure financial future.

At least one third of Americans are worried about not being able to pay their bills. Clark has long been concerned about influencers convincing followers to spend money on products they’re endorsing. Now there’s a new trend on social media from a new wave of influencers, and it’s great. Also, there’s good news on gas prices. Spending Less Is Trending: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Gas Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Tired of Influencers, TikTok Users Try ‘Underconsumption Core’ to Cut Costs 39% of Americans worry they can’t pay the bills Rein in your retail spending with these tips How To Open a Roth IRA Target Date Funds: Clark's Favorite Retirement Investment Certificate of Deposit (CD): What Is It, Best Places To Open One Air Travel Complaints | US Department of Transportation DOT - File a Consumer Complaint Cheap Flights, Airline Tickets & Airfare Alerts | Going Warning: Be Suspicious of Fraud Alerts on Your Financial Accounts Bluebird American Express Card Review 2024 What's the Best Savings Account for a Teenager? Best Prepaid Cards: Top Debit Card Alternatives The Silver Lining of a Slowing Economy: Cheaper Gas - The WSJ How To Find Phone Plans That Offer Lifeline Discounts AT&T, AST SpaceMobile Announce Commercial Agreement The Best Telecom Services for Landlines Elliott Report: Home 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

Clark, a pet care cost expert, dives into the financial realities of pet ownership, revealing that a staggering 91% of dog owners feel financial stress from unexpected vet bills. He discusses insights like the limitations of pet insurance and where to find more affordable care. Additionally, Clark warns listeners about the shifting Florida real estate market, especially regarding condo purchases and rising HOA fees. He also touches on the importance of financial planning with innovative credit options and the implications of new maintenance regulations.

The latest discussion tackles the alarming statistic that unhappy workers could slash global GDP by 9%. Insights into 'enlightened self-interest' reveal why valuing employees is crucial. The 'Clark Stinks' segment invites listener feedback on past advice, adding a fun twist. The complexities of variable universal life insurance and the importance of choosing the right college major are explored. Finally, it delves into the challenges of workplace satisfaction and the potential for improvement as Labor Day approaches.

Explore how companies may be charging you a 'loyalty tax' through personalized pricing based on your data. Clark shares tips on avoiding these hidden fees. Plus, discover the trend of couples opting for budget-friendly weddings, including creative ideas like midweek ceremonies and brunch receptions to save money. The discussion highlights changing attitudes towards wedding expenses, emphasizing priorities over extravagance. Get ready for valuable financial insights paired with modern wedding strategies!