The podcast dives into the chaos of today’s geopolitical landscape, exploring the shift in U.S. foreign policy and rising tensions with Russia. Discussions include Europe’s defense spending and its effect on markets. It critiques America's manipulated economic statistics and delves into trade tensions affecting U.S.-Canadian relations. Innovative financial strategies are proposed to navigate market re-ratings, and there's a look at the implications of possible new economic frameworks and the politics surrounding U.S. debt management.

Celebrating financial milestones is key to wealth-building. Understanding good versus bad debt is crucial, especially when it comes to mortgages and investments. A solid financial foundation starts with clear goals and effective repayment strategies. Tracking your net worth can signal progress toward financial independence. The joy of achieving milestones, like buying your first home, is highlighted alongside the ongoing debate of renting versus owning. Ultimately, finding balance between work fulfillment and financial goals is essential for long-term success.

When a big investor decides to sell, markets can move sharply. And some assets are particularly vulnerable, with ownership concentrated among a few large holders. What happens when the biggest whales dump their stocks, bonds or gold? And in today’s Dumb Question of the Week: How does a stock exchange set a price if there's a buyer for every seller? --- Thank you to Trading 212 for sponsoring this episode. Claim free fractional shares worth up to ‎£⁠100. Just create and verify a Trading 212 Invest or Stocks ISA account, make a minimum deposit of £1, and use the promo code "RAMIN" within 10 days of signing up, or use the following link: Sponsored Link. Terms apply - trading212.com/join/RAMIN  When investing, your capital is at risk and you may get back less than invested. Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. Pies & Autoinvest is an execution-only service. Not investment advice or portfolio management. Automatic investing refers to executing scheduled deposits. You are responsible for all investment and rebalancing decisions. Free shares can be fractional. 212 Cards are issued by Paynetics which provide all payment services. T212 provides customer support and user interface. Terms and fees apply. ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube ---Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes and is not financial advice. We do not provide recommendations or endorse any decision to buy, sell or hold any security. We cannot be held responsible for any actions listeners may take and investors are encouraged to seek independent financial advice. Copyright 2023 Many Happy Returns

Delve into the truth behind popular investing clichés, as the hosts challenge ten well-known sayings and uncover their misleading nature. The conversation touches on the unexpected benefits of higher stock allocation for retirees and explores the psychological biases affecting investor decisions. With insights on the complex relationship between central bank policies and market behavior, the episode also decodes the origins of the terms 'bull' and 'bear,' revealing how these concepts influence modern investing.

Dive into the intriguing world of leverage, where risks and rewards dance in a delicate balance. Discover how hidden leverage might be lurking in your investments, potentially turning profits into losses. The discussion highlights the pitfalls of mortgage debt in volatile markets and questions the safety of certain financial indexes. Learn about the strategic use of low volatility stocks and how they can lead to better risk-adjusted returns. This conversation is a must for anyone keen on navigating the complex landscape of investing.

Markets exhale as proposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada face suspension, but what about the ongoing trade frictions with China? Competition for international supply chains and pricing is heating up, particularly in the automotive sector. Dive into the effects of tariffs on American manufacturing and consumer behavior. Plus, discover how currency valuation methods like the Big Mac Index influence investment strategies amidst these evolving trade dynamics. Can investors manage risk in such volatile markets? Tune in for insights!

Explore the tumultuous factors shaping markets in 2025, including the potential effects of Federal Reserve rate changes and the impact of tariffs on US trade relations. Dive into the intriguing dynamics of AI innovations and inflated stock valuations amid shifting consumer attitudes. The rising tide of corporate bankruptcies raises eyebrows, while geopolitical tensions create ripples in high yield investments. Plus, ponder the paradox: can bad news actually turn into good news for investors?

Credit Suisse’s collapse shook the global financial system, forcing regulators into a frantic search for solutions. We're joined by Duncan Mavin, author of the new book ‘Meltdown: Scandal, Sleaze and the Collapse of Credit Suisse’ to discuss the downfall of a banking giant. And in the Dumb Question of the Week, we ask: How do you stop a bank run? --- Thank you to Raisin UK for sponsoring this episode. Raisin UK is a free, easy-to-use online savings platform, with savings accounts from over 40 FSCS-protected banks and building societies. Simply register, apply to open as many accounts as you like, and manage everything with a single login. Elevate your savings game today. What's more, for a limited time only, you can receive a £100 bonus when you register and fund your first savings account with a minimum of £10,000 using the code "SAVINGS100". For more details, please visit the link: raisin.co.uk/pensioncraft ---Get in touch 📧 mhr@pensioncraft.com 🎧 many-happy-returns.captivate.fm --- Join PensionCraft 🌐 Become a member at pensioncraft.com ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube ---Disclaimer This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes and is not financial advice. We do not provide recommendations or endorse any decision to buy, sell or hold any security. We cannot be held responsible for any actions listeners may take and investors are encouraged to seek independent financial advice. Copyright 2023 Many Happy Returns

Simon French, Chief Economist at Panmure Liberum and writer for The Times, dives into the surge of gilt yields and its impact on UK government finances. He discusses the potential for tax increases or spending cuts while questioning if this issue is unique to the UK. The conversation also explores the Bank of England's challenges, the undervaluation of UK stocks post-Brexit, and the essential role of stable fiscal rules for long-term economic health. In a light-hearted segment, they ponder the necessity of government fiscal rules.

George Magnus, a prominent China expert and research associate at the University of Oxford, dives into the faltering engine of China's economy. He discusses the potential for a balance sheet recession, drawing parallels with Japan's economic history. The conversation highlights the tension between governmental policies and consumer demand, while exploring the reliability of China's economic statistics. Magnus also examines how global relations and demographic challenges complicate China's growth strategy, painting a complex picture of the world's second-largest economy.