Money For the Rest of Us

The podcast dives into the shifting economic landscape of the U.S., questioning its status as a safe investment haven in 2025. It examines historical narratives from the late 1990s to recent years and discusses the surprising miscalculations surrounding national debt. Additionally, the impact of the U.S. dollar on investment returns and the role of tariffs in shaping global markets are explored. With technological advancements creating new challenges, the show raises critical questions about future investment strategies.

Delve into the complexities of investing in a non-ergodic world where time shapes financial outcomes. Discover the impact of volatility drag and the significance of path dependency on wealth management. Explore how AI is altering personal finance and digital content, leading to shifting audience engagement. The podcast also addresses the struggles of original movies and the rise of franchises in the film industry, all while emphasizing the importance of human insights in navigating today's unpredictable economy.

The discussion dives into the staggering impact of rising U.S. tariffs, revealing how they have contributed to stock market volatility and heightened prices. The podcast also unpacks the complexities of trade deficits, exploring the wealth transfer to foreign interests while raising questions about inequality. Additionally, it addresses how these tariffs affect food costs and housing dynamics, alongside a forecast on the future of global trade. Listeners gain insights into the winners and losers within this shifting economic landscape.

Max Belmont, a seasoned portfolio manager specializing in gold at First Eagle Investments, joins Greg Dowling, Chief Investment Officer at FEG Investment Advisors. They discuss gold's appeal as a hedge against inflation, contrasting it with digital assets like Bitcoin. The conversation highlights gold’s historical significance, its role as a safe haven during economic turmoil, and strategies for incorporating it into investment portfolios. They also touch on the growing demand for gold amid rising global tensions, underscoring its enduring value.

Dive into the world of closed-end funds with fascinating discussions on their unique traits compared to open-ended mutual funds and ETFs. Explore various investing strategies, including opportunistic trading and the buy-and-hold income factory. Discover the impact of activist investors and the importance of reinvesting distributions. Strategies for selling after gaining 5% are also examined, providing a comprehensive look at how to manage and profit from closed-end funds.

Trade deficits are reshaping the U.S. economy, making the country poorer compared to the past. Discover how competitiveness can be enhanced through strategic investments and the interplay of savings and investment. The discussion highlights the relationship between U.S. savings rates and trade imbalances, emphasizing the implications of currency strength and rising debt. Learn about the complexities of asset bubbles and how trade deficits can paradoxically lead to better investment opportunities. Fascinating insights into economic productivity and global competitiveness await!

The discussion kicks off with how tariffs are reshaping U.S. stock markets amid recession fears. Delve into Trump's use of tariffs as a strategic tool to boost domestic manufacturing. The complexities of the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency are explored, revealing its mixed blessings. Tensions between trade deficits and currency valuation are analyzed, showcasing historical context and potential strategies. Finally, the podcast navigates the risks associated with a weakening dollar and the potential fallout for global trade.

Howard Smith, a veteran in Japanese investments and Partner at Indus Capital, joins Greg Dowling, Chief Investment Officer at FEG Investment Advisors, to discuss why Japan may surprise investors in the coming decade. They debunk myths surrounding Japan's investment climate, focusing on the undervalued yen and improving corporate governance. The conversation highlights booming opportunities in tech and addresses fiscal sustainability amid Japan's debt. Cultural nuances and economic history enrich their insights, making Japan a captivating investment destination.

Dive into the controversial idea of a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and its questionable relevance. Explore the fallout from the largest cryptocurrency exchange hack and the staggering losses tied to meme coins, including a Trump-themed token. Discover how quantum computing poses threats to current financial security. Despite the risks, uncover the positive impacts of cryptocurrency on individuals and businesses, offering new avenues for financial stability and reduced costs in the evolving digital economy.

Discover how deferred income annuities can enhance retirement income more effectively than immediate annuities or bond ladders. Explore the fascinating concept of mortality credits and how they act as a powerful return booster. Learn how these credits can lead to an additional 1% to 1.5% in annualized returns over decades. Plus, find out the key factors to consider when deciding if an annuity fits into your retirement strategy.