Financial Decoder

Mark Riepe is joined by Michael Townsend, managing director of legislative and regulatory affairs at Schwab, to discuss the cognitive and emotional biases that influence political decision-making, the gap between campaign promises and legislative realities, and the complexities surrounding federal debt and entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the legislative process, the impact of affective forecasting on political perceptions, and the disconnect between political actions and market performance. Michael also highlights the challenges of addressing long-term issues in a short-term political environment and the need for investors to filter out noise and focus on their long-term goals.Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.  Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.Past performance is no guarantee of future results, and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(1024-1YBC)

In this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe delves into the key aspects of succession planning for business owners, including how our behavioral tendencies may influence the decisions we make around a business's future. He's joined by Austin Jarvis, a director of estate, trust, and high-net-worth tax at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, to discuss the unique challenges faced by business owners when keeping a business within the family versus selling to a third party. Austin highlights the need for proper documentation, the role of specialists, and the impact of cognitive and emotional biases on the different steps of the process. He references real-life examples that illustrate the complexities of business transitions, underscoring the necessity of a well-thought-out succession plan.Resources mentioned by Mark in the episode:"Business Succession: 3 Ways to Transfer Your Business""How to Handle an Inherited Business""How to Plan, Launch, and Maintain a Business""5 Takeaways from TV's Succession"Schwab Small Business SolutionsSchwab Trust, Estate & CharitableSchwab Wealth AdvisoryFollow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.Important DisclosuresThe information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.  Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.  Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.(1024-YWBA)

In this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe and Susan Hirshman discuss the financial aspects of owning a pet. Susan highlights the responsibilities, costs, and emotional attachment that come with pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of financial planning. Mark asks her about the role of pet insurance in covering unexpected expenses and for tips for comparing policies. They also explore creative workarounds for those who may not be able to afford a pet on their own.Susan Hirshman is a director of wealth management for Schwab Wealth Advisory and the Schwab Center for Financial Research. She's also a Chartered Financial Analyst, a Certified Financial Planner Professional and a Certified Public Accountant—and a pet owner.Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important DisclosuresThe information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(0924-VGUA)

Taxes are just one part of estate planning. People are also asked to consider custody arrangements, medical decisions, and legal issues. But it comes as no surprise that people who have worked their whole lives to build an estate are wary of letting taxes and fees eat away at their hard-earned assets.  Further complicating the current environment is the fact that lifetime estate and gift tax exemption thresholds are poised to be cut in half at the stroke of midnight December 31, 2025, leading to a potentially sharp jump in some estates' tax liability. But there's still time to prepare. On this episode of Financial Decoder, Mark interviews Austin Jarvis, director of estate, trust, and high-net-worth tax at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. They discuss why everyone needs a will, various estate planning documents, and what to do if you have a large estate that might owe more taxes later.You can read articles from Austin Jarvis, including “Estate Planning for Low Interest Rates” and “How to Help Your Grandkids Pay for College” on Schwab.com. Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThe information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.Schwab does not provide tax advice. Clients should consult a professional tax advisor for their tax advice needs.Consult with an attorney and tax advisor prior to taking any action based upon this information.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.(0824-LC7F)

SummaryMark Riepe is joined by Rob Williams and Susan Hirshman to examine one of the most critical retirement decisions: When should you take Social Security?After you listen:Check out the helpful resources Susan mentions on the Social Security Administration's website.Listen to Mike Townsend's WashingtonWise podcast to stay abreast of the policy debates surrounding government programs like Social Security and Medicare.In this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe examines one of the most critical retirement decisions: When should you take Social Security? When you claim too early, your benefits are reduced, and yet a large percentage of people claim at the earliest possible age. What's driving this decision? Mark, along with his guests Rob Williams and Susan Hirshman, look at three psychological phenomena that could impact the decision.Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.Important DisclosuresThe information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.[0824-HMCL]

Discover how decision-making biases impact Olympic host city selection, judging athletes, and audience support for underdogs. Learn about emotional responses of Olympic medalists and lessons from past mistakes in bid strategies. Explore parallels to financial decision-making in daily life.

Experienced CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional Cindy Scott discusses saving for short-term goals like vacations. They delve into prioritizing goals, balancing short and long-term financial needs, exploring the psychology of saving for vacations, and the pros and cons of using a 401k loan. Scott also talks about achieving financial goals, decision-making biases in saving and spending money, and the importance of having a financial plan.

Rob Williams from Schwab Center for Financial Research discusses the basics of annuities, their benefits, types, and considerations in retirement planning. The podcast explores integrating annuities into diversified income plans, decision-making biases between lump sum and annuities, and boosting investor confidence with guaranteed income sources.

Investment experts Liz Ann Sonders and Kevin Gordon discuss market trends in the first half of 2024, highlighting disparities between large and small-cap stocks. They cover global economic outlook, China's market performance, central bank policies, and geopolitical risks. The podcast also explores legislative priorities, cryptocurrency regulation, financial challenges in 2025, regulatory agency activity, and the impact of the U.S. presidential election on markets.

Your financial life can accumulate disorder and inefficiency over time. Lots of accounts, lots of holdings, and lots of priorities without a clear organizational structure. If this sounds like your portfolio, a good spring cleaning or decluttering could be in order. On this episode of Financial Decoder, Susan Hirshman, a director of wealth management for Schwab Wealth Advisory and the Schwab Center for Financial Research, is back to share her suggestions for tidying up your finances. Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresInvestors should consider carefully information contained in the prospectus, or if available, the summary prospectus, including investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. You can request a prospectus by calling 800-435-4000. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.A rollover of retirement plan assets to an IRA is not your only option. Carefully consider all of your available options which may include but not be limited to keeping your assets in your former employer's plan; rolling over assets to a new employer's plan; or taking a cash distribution (taxes and possible withdrawal penalties may apply). Prior to a decision, be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider factors such as differences in investment related expenses, plan or account fees, available investment options, distribution options, legal and creditor protections, the availability of loan provisions, tax treatment, and other concerns specific to your individual circumstances.Please note that this content was created as of the specific date indicated and reflects the author’s views as of that date. It will be kept solely for historical purposes, and the author’s opinions may change, without notice, in reaction to shifting economic, business, and other conditions.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results, and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance. ​Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.​Rebalancing does not protect against losses or guarantee that an investor’s goal will be met. Rebalancing may cause investors to incur transaction costs and, when a non-retirement account is rebalanced, taxable events may be created that may affect your tax liability.​Neither the tax-loss harvesting strategy, nor any discussion herein, is intended as tax advice and  Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. does not represent that any particular tax consequences will be obtained. Tax-loss harvesting involves certain risks including unintended tax implications. Investors should consult with their tax advisors and refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website at www.irs.gov about the consequences of tax-loss harvesting.The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.​Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.Schwab Moneywise® is provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.(0424-ZJPT)