Clark is out on one of his adventures today, returning tomorrow. Wes Moss, a fiduciary financial advisor and friend of Team Clark, joins Christa to answer your investing questions and discuss two important retirement topics. The stock market can have major swings. Unfortunately, the volatility can cause us to panic and take money out in response. However, numbers show that missing the best 10 days in any given year over a 25-year period can reduce your return from 9% to under 6% – and it gets wo...
Sep 09, 2024•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, news for first time homebuyers that changes Clark’s long time advice. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Buying A New Vs Used Home: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Does Escrow (in Escrow) Mean, and How Does It Work? What Clark Says You Should Do With Your I Bonds This Year New rules could reshape homebuying. Here’s what it means for you. Clark.com - CE...
Sep 06, 2024•33 min
Clark is out today, but returns tomorrow in time for Clark Stinks. Back by popular demand is Wes Moss, a fiduciary financial advisor that Clark and Christa have known for years. A recent article from the Wall Street Journal took a shot at two time-honored investment strategies: the 60/40 portfolio and the 4% rule. Will these two financial principles work in the future? CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Wes Moss, a managing partner with Capital Investment Advisors, joins Christa to discuss the purpose...
Sep 05, 2024•25 min
At least one third of Americans are worried about not being able to pay their bills. Clark has long been concerned about influencers convincing followers to spend money on products they’re endorsing. Now there’s a new trend on social media from a new wave of influencers, and it’s great. Also, there’s good news on gas prices . Spending Less Is Trending: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Gas Prices: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Tired of Influencers, TikTok Users Try ‘Undercon...
Sep 04, 2024•34 min
The decision to own a pet should not be taken lightly, with veterinary hospital bill shock causing great financial strain on pet owners . Clark explains the market forces at work, and where to look for more affordable pet care. Also, a special warning if you or someone you know is considering buying a condo in Florida. There’s been a pivot in the real estate market. Pet Care Costs: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Alert: Buying A Florida Condo: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show:...
Sep 03, 2024•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also - A recent stat reveals that unhappy workers may reduce Global GDP by up to 9% - so what do workers want? Clark discusses “enlightened self-interest” and the vital importance of valuing employees. Clark Stink s : Segments 1 & 2 Boss Advice About Workers: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Are Indexed Universal Life Insurance Policies a Good Option or a Scam...
Aug 30, 2024•33 min
There’s an allegation that companies are buying and using consumer data to charge individual, discriminatory prices. Clark discusses how to get around the loyalty tax you may unknowingly be paying. Also today, there is a trend in weddings to rethink the fantasy event and scale down to have funds for other priorities. Clark shares ideas to help couples save on their special day. Privacy & The Price Of Loyalty: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Save More On Weddings: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment ...
Aug 29, 2024•34 min
QR codes are everywhere, and criminals have found a way to exploit them . Approach with caution and know what to look out for. Also, Clark recently got caught up in a rental car toll issue and tells you how to avoid the toll fee traps that can come with car rentals. QR Code Scams: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Rental Car Toll Fees: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: 'I'm done scanning': Woman warns of QR code scam that was sent to her doorstep Got a barcode from your utility ...
Aug 28, 2024•32 min
Clark shares some tough new stats about American credit card debt . If you are in debt, you are definitely not alone. Know the strategies that can set you on a path to freedom from debt. Later, insurers are exploring some interesting ways to cut down on the critical problem of distracted driving. Clark has his own way of banishing phone use while behind the wheel. Credit Card Debt: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Phone Addiction & Distracted Driving: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned o...
Aug 27, 2024•37 min
An important lesson for new investors: Clark explains the penny stock pump & dump rip off - a worsening problem in the digital age. Also, as the number of robo calls decline, “robo texts” are increasing and come in many forms, looking to get at your identity and into your wallet. Know how to spot scam texts and hit DELETE. Penny Stock Rip Off: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Beware Of Scam Texts: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Penny Stocks Are More of a Problem Than Eve...
Aug 26, 2024•33 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, most states are still under costly monopoly power control for energy and those costs continue upward. But you are not powerless! In addition to the payback of lower bills, there are tax credits for energy efficient home improvements. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Home Energy Tax Credits: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What's the Best Way To Rent a Car ...
Aug 23, 2024•34 min
Clark has updated information if you are thinking of selling a car, with new direction on where to get fair market value pricing. Also, a recent ruling means Amazon has to make a big change to how they handle 3rd party sellers of unsafe items. Selling Or Trading In A Car: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon Recall Ruling : Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: This Car Site Offers Top Dollar to Sellers. Its Stock Is a Wall Street Favorite How to Sell Your Car in 5 Steps-Clark.c...
Aug 22, 2024•35 min
Humans are prone to “static analysis” - the idea that if an attempted solution didn’t work, it never will. But innovations prove otherwise and Clark has a real life example in the vital area of water shortages . Also, many Americans, especially the elderly, are taken advantage of with technology schemes. Clark discusses a new fintech offering strategies to prevent this now rampant fraud. Try Try Again: The Power Of Innovation: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 A Fintech Takes On Fraud Prevention: S...
Aug 21, 2024•32 min
Today, choosing the right phone plan could save you up to $1500 a year. Clark introduces our new Phone Plan Finder tool to help you cut through the confusion and make that choice much easier. Then Clark discusses a great new retirement savings option for part-time and self-employed workers. Also - It’s vital to understand your liability risks and insure accordingly, which for many, includes umbrella insurance. New Roth Options: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Liability Insurance: Segment 3 Ask Cl...
Aug 20, 2024•31 min
A recent FTC settlement validates Clark’s long-held advice on car warranties. Know how the game is played including “bust outs”, and how to best proceed if you wish to purchase an extended warranty on a vehicle. Also, restaurants are getting crushed by costs, so they are getting creative with ways to serve us fresh food at a discount. Auto Warranty Schemes: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Fresh Food Vending: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Think twice before buying a car-rep...
Aug 19, 2024•30 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, an app capable of helping job seekers transfer their skills to new industries and locate positions close to home. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Locate Contract Work: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Donating & Volunteering Archives - Clark Howard Why You Should Establish Trusted Contacts Over 11 million job seekers are using this app to find jo...
Aug 16, 2024•31 min
Rampant data breaches facilitate SIM swapping fraud - allowing criminals to usurp 2 factor authentication by stealing your phone service. Clark explains this very common form of identity theft and how you can easily prevent it. Also - Why hotels are in financial distress these days, what that means for travelers and how this calls for a new approach to booking. Sim Swapping 101: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Distressed Hotels - Strategic Booking: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the ...
Aug 15, 2024•32 min
The number one issue people are contacting Team Clark about: Buying a used car. Clark goes back to basics on how to purchase a used vehicle, so you know how to protect yourself before setting foot on a dealer lot. Later - Antitrust lawsuits allege corporate landlord price collusion via software. What apartment renters need to know and strategies to get the best deal on rent. Buying A Used Vehicle: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Apartment Rent: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show...
Aug 14, 2024•32 min
Influenced by market noise, many struggle with financial decisions regarding their investments for the future. What is the ideal mix of stocks, bonds, domestic and overseas funds? Vanguard just came out with some new recommendations. Also, Clark shares something that should ease your mind about the future of jobs with AI and other rapidly changing technologies. Investment Decisions: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Future Of Work: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Your 60/4...
Aug 13, 2024•31 min
There are a lot of bonus offers coming from big banks right now, trying to capture multiple lines of your business. Should you go for it? Depends. Clark explains. Also - Consumers collectively seeking store brands to fight inflation is paying off. The big box retailers are battling it out with their private label items as they compete for private label dominance! Big Bank Bonus Offers: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Private Label Price War: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: B...
Aug 12, 2024•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also today, Target has announced it will no longer accept one form of payment. Clark shares why this is a good idea, with a payment method warning for you. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Using Checks- A Warning: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) Retrieve your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) Where To Buy the Best Cheap Pri...
Aug 09, 2024•33 min
We’ve talked a lot recently about rising insurance rates. The car insurance industry is facing some backlash now, as consumers explore their options. Clark has advice on lowering your premiums . Also today - many people buy lottery tickets, but the odds of winning are insanely low. One couple actually hit a huge jackpot , but what happened next is a very sad story. Save More On Auto Insurance: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Advisors- Choose Wisely: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentio...
Aug 08, 2024•33 min
Recently there has been backlash about the use of phones by teenagers, especially at schools. Some districts and states are doing something about it. Also - restaurants are trying to bring in customers through promotions and deals, but how do you know if you are really getting a bargain? Student Cell Phone Bans: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Restaurant Promotions: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: NY Students Banned From Using Phones First Hated, Then Loved It Top 10 Small B...
Aug 07, 2024•27 min
New statistics showing average 401K balances by generation reveal a trouble spot. Clark focuses on Gen X. Also, if you or someone you know does contract work full time or as a side hustle, Clark has important advice about taxes. Gen X Retirement: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 1099 Tax Traps: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: The Average 401(k) Balance by Age Axios: Gen X savings gap 7 Best Ways to Save for Retirement in Your 50s 30 Easy Side Hustle Ideas 7 Things To Know Bef...
Aug 06, 2024•29 min
Today, Clarkonomics with an overview of the current job market and how to be prepared. Also - Incorrect pricing has been plaguing consumers alongside inflation and may soon be remedied in some places by technology. Meanwhile, why you need to keep your eye on the price! Job Market Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Incorrect Pricing: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Axios: Labor scarcity is the new normal Companies are facing a skills-gap crisis that college alone can’t f...
Aug 05, 2024•32 min
Friday - Clark Stinks day! Christa shares Clark Stinks posts with Clark. Submit yours at Clark.com/ClarkStinks . Also, many homeowners continue to receive unsolicited offers to buy their property. Clark discusses what you need to know about such offers, and the first step a seller should take. Clark Stinks : Segments 1 & 2 Unsolicited Home Buying Outfits: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: What Is Umbrella Insurance and Do You Need It? Amazon set to take on Temu and Shein ...
Aug 02, 2024•31 min
We’re starting out August with some great news - there is something you can do for free that may help you live longer, and happier. Also - unhappy news of elderly women being ripped off by a home gutter system salesperson. Clark has an important warning for homeowners. An Attitude Of Gratitude: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Home Improvement Rip-Offs: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Segment 4 Mentioned on the show: Be grateful for what you have. It may help you live longer How To Find the Best Deal on Chea...
Aug 01, 2024•30 min
In today’s show - more Americans are installing alarm systems to help them not only feel safe from crime, but also for protection in a fire. The alarm business has been rife with long term contracts and high monthly costs. Clark tells you how to get a deal with the same safety. Another area where costs vary wildly is prescription eyeglasses. There's a new rule that makes it even easier to get your glasses at a deep discount. Home Security Systems: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 The Eyeglass Rule...
Jul 31, 2024•38 min
Inflation has curved downward affecting interest rates, presenting challenges for savers. There are great differences between financial institutions regarding savings rates. Clark discusses how to get the best rates on CDs and savings accounts, and why you NEVER allow a CD to auto-renew. Also, Amazon is feeling the heat from Temu and Shein, and they are answering with a new competitive site. Saving Rates Update: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Amazon’s New Discount Store: Segment 3 Ask Clark: Seg...
Jul 30, 2024•35 min
Today, Clark explains how, with the economy in slower gear, it is more important than ever to re-shop travel. The savings can be significant. Also- a warning about a common and potentially devastating scam wherein a criminal posing as a fraud specialist, is actually a specialist at committing fraud targeting bank & retirement accounts. Know what this scam looks & sounds like, and what to do when you recognize it. Save More: Re-shop Travel: Segment 1 Ask Clark: Segment 2 Financial Imperso...
Jul 29, 2024•31 min
