The Higher Standard

Happy New Year! In this special year-end episode, Chris and Saied dive deep into the wild ride that was 2024, recapping the economy quarter by quarter with their signature mix of insight and banter. From the "pensive" start of the year where the Fed played cat-and-mouse with rate cuts to the real estate market's affordability crisis and the Magnificent Seven’s domination of Wall Street, this episode is packed with more twists and turns than a rollercoaster at an abandoned theme park. Whether it's debating AI's transformative potential, lamenting high mortgage rates, or pointing out the "Jersey Shore" dynamics of the Federal Reserve, Chris and Saied break it all down with wit, wisdom, and the occasional mocktail reference.➡️ As they toast to a new year (mocktail in hand), the duo doesn't shy away from discussing the highs and lows of 2024, from soaring office vacancies to spiraling service costs. And as tradition dictates, they leave you with a little financial humor to ring in 2025: "Remember, folks, economic resolutions are like gym memberships—great in theory, but it’s the follow-through that counts! Stay sharp, stay savvy, and don’t let inflation shrink your New Year’s champagne budget." Here's to another year of keeping it real, financial nerds. Cheers! 🥂💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:No links this week kids! The Higher Standard loves you. ⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

In this episode, Chris and Saied break down the Federal Reserve’s latest rate cut, and let’s just say, it’s got everyone—from Wall Street to your wallet—feeling some kind of way. With a 25 basis point cut to the Fed Funds rate, inflation still refusing to play nice, and the bond market throwing a full-on tantrum, it’s clear: the Fed’s decisions are anything but boring. Oh, and don’t miss Chris’s hot take on how housing affordability has officially hit “you-can’t-make-this-up” levels of absurdity. Spoiler alert: the 10-year Treasury and your dreams of a lower mortgage rate aren’t on speaking terms.➡️ From the VIX spiking a jaw-dropping 74% to why shrinkflation has you paying more for less Doritos, the duo dives into why markets have gone wild. Is the Fed’s “data dependency” just another way of saying “we’re winging it”? And what does this all mean for you, dear listener? Whether you’re a seasoned investor or someone just trying to figure out why eggs are still so damn expensive, Chris and Saied deliver insights with their signature blend of smarts and sass. Tune in for all the juicy details, and remember, it’s not the size of the rate cut—it’s how you use it!💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Fed cuts rates by quarter point, scales back cuts for 2025 (Yahoo! Finance)Summary of Economic Projections (Q4 2024) (The Federal Reserve)The $VIX spiked 74% higher today (Charlie Bilello via X)Where inflation is and isn't (Q4 2024) (Yahoo! Finance via Instagram)Jerome Powell doesn't see the stag or the flation (The Kobeissi Letter via X)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

You know what they say – the first $100,000 is the hardest, and it feels like scaling Mount Everest in flip-flops. In this episode of *The Higher Standard*, Chris and Saied unpack why breaking that six-figure milestone is such a struggle and how even Charlie Munger (RIP) called it a "b*tch." But once you hit that $100K, things start compounding faster than your excuses for skipping leg day. It’s like flipping a switch to rocket toward $1 million – or so we tell ourselves between sweet cream nitros and existential dread.➡️ The boys also explore childhood money habits that might be sabotaging your wallet and dive into the *Case Shiller Index* to understand the warning signs of recessionary bubbles. From historical asset crashes to the 2008 housing crisis, they highlight why economic indicators are more than just fancy graphs. Saied’s expressions are priceless – equal parts shock, dread, and "I need a drink." So buckle up, hit play, and see if you’re on a path to wealth or just another bubble waiting to burst. Smash that like button, ring the bell, and remember: the road to wealth is paved with memes, mindset shifts, and maybe a little less avocado toast. 🥑💸💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Robert Shiller and His CAPE Ratio (Gary Stone via X)Can the S&P 500’s CAPE Ratio Predict a Market Crash? (Charts)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

Dive into the whirlwind of the economy with insights on the 2025 housing market predictions. Sun Belt cities are experiencing a rental rollercoaster, with forecasts swinging from optimistic booms to cautionary tales. Curious about the Federal Reserve's mysterious moves? It's all about balance—especially with mortgage rates on the rise. Unpack housing supply issues while exploring hilarious anecdotes on beauty standards and personal style. Tune in for a mix of humor, predictions, and economic realities you won't want to miss!

The podcast tackles the declining viability of the American Dream, revealing shocking statistics on homeownership costs and credit card debt. Hosts discuss how rising prices and stagnant wages are reshaping financial realities. They highlight the challenges of dual-income households and the historic downturn in mortgage applications. Amidst humor, they analyze consumer debt trends echoing past crises and the misleading nature of economic statistics. The conversation blends engaging anecdotes with critical insights, shedding light on navigating today’s economic landscape.

🎙️ In this episode of The Higher Standard, Chris and Saied take listeners on a rollercoaster ride through the land of leadership, stress, and... Whole Foods hot bars? 🍳 Yes, it’s that kind of episode.Starting with some playful banter about overpriced turmeric shots and parental leave policies (because Haroon is off becoming a “baby-making legend”), the hosts quickly shift gears to tackle the high-stakes world of corporate leadership. Chris gets real about his week of legal battles, emotional highs, and the unrelenting stress of balancing family life, work pressures, and the occasional existential crisis. All while trying to figure out if he’s genetically predisposed to being weak. (Thanks, 23andMe!)➡️ The duo dives deep into the art of authenticity, unpacking why being your true self at work and on social media is a game-changer in today’s hyperconnected world. From Chris defending the misunderstood GLP-1 weight loss meds to Saied advocating for tough morning workouts that reset your day, the conversation is as educational as it is entertaining.🔔 P.S. Happy Thanksgiving! Remember to be grateful for the little things—like when your grocery bill doesn’t require a loan.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:What Are GLP-1 Medications? Understanding their use in weight loss and diabetes management (WebMD)Cortisol: The Stress Hormone. Learn how cortisol impacts stress and overall health (Mayo Clinic)Authentic Leadership: Exploring its impact on workplace culture and leadership dynamics (Harvard Business Review)Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: The role of EQ in building resilience and managing stress (Psychology Today)The Rise of the Slash Career: Balancing multiple career paths in a fast-evolving economy (Harvard Business Review)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

In this episode, hosts Chris, Saied, and Haroon tackle the behemoth that is U.S. government spending. With deficits skyrocketing 287% year-over-year and the national debt now exceeding $33 trillion, the hosts break down how this level of fiscal mismanagement impacts everything from mortgage rates to Social Security. They also delve into Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy's bold new roles in the Department of Government Efficiency, dissecting what their proposed agency cuts mean for the average American. Spoiler: The Department of Education and IRS might be on the chopping block.➡️ As always, the conversation is packed with sharp humor and insightful analysis. Whether you're intrigued by the $250 billion deficit balloon in just one month, or curious about how Treasury bond issuance influences your car loan, this episode has you covered. By the end, you'll have a deeper understanding of why "balancing the budget" isn't just a catchy slogan—it's a necessity. Plus, a sprinkle of conspiracy theories and Musk's Dogecoin-inspired department name makes this one a must-listen. 💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Deficit spending surges to $250 billion in one month (The Kobeissi Letter via X)What Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy could abolish in the name of government efficiency (Yahoo! Finance)Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy appointed to lead Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (CNN)Federal deficit reaches alarming new heights (Yahoo! Finance via Instagram)How government spending affects you (Yahoo! Finance via Instagram)Americans fall further behind on debts as household debt reaches all-time high (Yahoo! Finance)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

The average age of U.S. homebuyers has soared to 56, proving that owning a home now requires both age and a level of patience previously reserved for waiting in line at the DMV. Saied, Chris, and Haroon hilariously dissect this trend, blaming skyrocketing home prices, nosebleed mortgage rates, and a painfully thin housing inventory for forcing younger buyers to stay on the sidelines—or back in their parents’ basements.➡️ With a cocktail of sharp humor and real talk, the hosts unpack how these shifts impact everything from family planning to the American Dream itself (spoiler: it’s expensive). They also debate whether "strategic investing" is just code for "hope and prayer" in this market. Tune in as they turn these bleak economic trends into laughs while giving you the lowdown on navigating the financial jungle without losing your sanity—or your sense of humor.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Job growth slowed sharply last month (Wall Street Journal)Even Some High-Income Americans Can't Afford New Cars Anymore (Bloomberg)Homebuyer average age rises to 56 amid rising homeownership costs (CNBC)Mortgage apps to buy a house are down 45% from pre-pandemic levels (Nick Gerli via X)Warren Buffett is now building his cash balance at an unprecedented rate (The Kobeissi Letter via X)28% of shoppers who used credit cards have not paid off the presents they purchased for family and friends last year(CNBC via Instagram)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

As the U.S. approaches Election Day on November 5th, the trio dives deep into the intersection of politics and economics, exploring how election outcomes could impact the market and your wallet. With rising anxiety reflected in the VIX index, your hosts discuss the historical volatility seen during previous elections, particularly in 2008 and 2020, and how this year’s political climate feels different yet uncertain. They dissect the implications of potential policy shifts and the Fed's monetary strategies, all while keeping the conversation light and humorous.➡️ Anecdotes and witty banter interlace the serious discussions, making complex financial concepts more relatable. Join Saied, Chris, and Haroon as they navigate these critical topics with their signature blend of insight and levity, ensuring you’re informed and entertained as you head to the polls.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Election 2024: Inflation Outlook (Morgan Stanley)October 2024 Beige Book Insights (Federal Reserve)Episode 253 | Markets vs. The Fed: Who’s Right About Inflation 📈 & Employment? 📊 (The Higher Standard via YouTube)A Look at Historical Market Patterns in Election Years (CME Group)U.S. economy grew at 2.8% pace last quarter, powered by consumer spending (CBS News)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.

In this episode of The Higher Standard, Chris and Saied take the stage as a dynamic duo, flying solo without their third musketeer, Haroon, who’s off on PTO (probably in a pickleball tournament or hiding from the Fed). With no one to keep them in check, the two dive headfirst into a whirlwind of financial insights, market predictions, and why the MAG 7 tech giants are carrying the S&P 500 on their backs like Atlas — except Tesla, whose latest earnings had investors buzzing despite mixed results. It’s a "two wise men" operation this week, and things get as real as inflation at a gas pump on payday. ➡️ Chris and Saied break down the love-hate relationship between the markets and the Fed — one’s bullish, the other’s just a buzzkill. They riff on whether inflation is here to stay, question if we’re headed for stagflation, and poke fun at economists trying to predict a recession like it’s the weather. Along the way, they tackle rising insurance premiums, paycheck-to-paycheck living, and the surreal cost of burritos ($46 for breakfast?!). With humor, hard-hitting insights, and a few Monopoly references thrown in for good measure, this episode is a wild ride through the tangled mess of today’s economy.💥 Have you left your "honest ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" review? 👕 THS MERCH: http://www.thspod.com🧊 Get 12% off any purchase at Ice Barrel (Excludes chillers)🔗 Resources:Financial insecurity and cost of living (Business Insider)Tweet on inflation and financial markets (Kobeissi Letter via X)Tweet on housing affordability crisis (Kobeissi Letter via X)Tweet on MAG 7 stocks and market concentration (Kobeissi Letter via X)Tesla's Q3 Earnings Report (Yahoo Finance)Existing Home Sales Fall To 14 Year Low (Yahoo Finance via Instagram)Here’s when prices might ease, per Fed’s Daly (MarketWatch)⚠️ Disclaimer: Please note that the content shared on this show is solely for entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal or investment advice or attributed to any company. The views and opinions expressed are personal and not reflective of any entity. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided, and listeners are urged to seek professional advice before making any legal or financial decisions. By listening to The Higher Standard podcast you agree to these terms, and the show, its hosts and employees are not liable for any consequences arising from your use of the content.