In this conversation, Steve and Travis discuss the impact of presidential elections on investments. They provide historical context and data to show that there is no correlation between election results and investment returns.  They highlight that over the past decades, the market has mostly seen positive returns, with only a few negative years. They also discuss the role of Congress and how it has changed over time. The conversation aims to provide listeners with a more informed perspective on the relationship between elections and investments. __________________________________________ ..read more

Unlock the secrets to navigating the real estate market with a wad of cash as we reveal how Baby Boomers are reshaping the housing landscape. In this episode, we dissect the financial firepower fueling an all-out bidding war and explain why having parents with deep pockets might just be your golden ticket in today's competitive market. Are you ready to ride the rollercoaster of home financing trends? Together, we explore the seismic societal shifts prompting families to pack up for lower-tax pastures and the rise of multigenerational households. But hold on tight because we also tackle the tr ..read more

Ever feel like the housing market is a rollercoaster you can't quite get off? Join us as we embark on a journey through the convoluted landscape of real estate economics. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged in our latest episode, where we dissect the multifaceted beast that is soaring housing prices, and spotlight the illusions surrounding lower interest rates as the cure-all for home affordability.  We peel back the layers of market dynamics and psychological factors that are inflating the cost of your dream home. As we navigate the societal currents shaping our living choices ..read more

In this new 4-part series, we discuss buying homes in 2024 and the relationship between interest rates and home purchases. As we open the series, we tackle the daunting trifecta of taxes, home prices, and interest rates reshaping today's real estate market. Our conversation delves deep into the cascading effects of mass migrations and state tax codes, offering you a fresh lens to view the ever-changing landscape of real estate. We peel back the layers of property taxes – a silent yet significant factor in the cost of homeownership – and discuss the strategic moves you can make to combat risin ..read more

Is corporate greed an inevitable force or a misunderstood economic growth component? In this final session of our four-part series, we unpack the essence of a corporation's role in driving innovation and societal progress. We dissect the symbiotic relationship between profit-making and community investment, challenging the common narrative that equates corporate success with avarice. Our conversation covers the role of R&D, local economic enhancement, and the support systems that underpin modern-day families, all thanks to the engine of corporate contribution. Should you really be made at ..read more

In this episode, we dissect the connection between corporate profits and inflation, especially where it hurts most—your groceries and gas. We're peeling back the layers of financial jargon to reveal the truth behind profit margins, debunking the myth that fat profits always mean corporate greed. By dissecting the real stories behind booming revenues and inflated prices, we promise to equip you with the savvy to decode the economic narratives that flood your newsfeeds. It's no secret that Uncle Sam's pockets are getting deeper, with federal and state tax revenues swelling by jaw-dropping figur ..read more

Get ready to challenge your financial savvy and uncover the true measures of business success as we unravel the complexities of profit margins. This deep dive isn't just about the figures; it's an exploration of efficiency, the lifeblood of investments and entrepreneurship. You'll walk away with a keener sense of how profit margins truly reflect a company's capacity to transform revenue into gains and why they matter more than the bottom line when cruising through the tempest of market fluctuations and economic uncertainty. We explore the tough choices businesses face when navigating rising c ..read more

"These greedy corporations are destroying us!" Have you heard this lately? In this political season, there is a lot of talk and rhetoric surrounding corporate profits and their effect on you, your money, and your future. As a friendly reminder, the news is designed to provoke a reaction, not educate. It's important to contextualize the information presented in the news without being easily provoked. Prepare to have your views challenged as we dissect the contentious issue of corporate profits and their true role in our financial lives. This episode isn't about assigning blame; it's an invitat ..read more

In this episode, we discuss whether or not you should own bonds. We emphasize the importance of defining the purpose of owning bonds, which is to have predictable income and the safety of the principal. We also explain the components of bonds, including coupon, maturity, and price.  We take time to discuss the impact of money supply, inflation, the changing financial landscape, and interest rates on bond investments.  As the market ebbs and flows, the potential for losses can surge like a tide against the unprepared investor. We dive into the lessons learned from the 2022 mark ..read more

Still reeling from the rollercoaster ride that was 2022 in the bond market? You're not alone. In this episode,  we dissect the intricate world of bond mutual funds, breaking down why the rules of the stock market don’t always apply. Expect to emerge from our conversation with a new perspective on how overpaying for bonds can feel like a tightrope walk over a pitfall of limited returns. We don't just skim the surface; we scrutinize the common traps investors fall into when they treat bond funds like their stock counterparts, and we arm you with the savvy to make choices that serve your por ..read more