Are annuities always a bad deal? Not so fast. In today’s episode, Richard Rosso & Jonathan McCarty tackle the myths and misconceptions around annuities. From income guarantees to tax-deferred growth, find out how annuities can actually support your retirement strategy—if used the right way. Jonathan shares his changed life as a new father, and a discussion of investor confirmation bias, who's likely to be the replacement for Jerome Powell, and the Shado Fed, tariffs, inflation, and political...
Jun 27, 2025•46 min
Is the Fed setting the stage for another policy blunder? As inflation pressures linger and economic growth slows, Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz break down the risks of the central bank's next move—and what it could mean for your money on this morning's episode of #TheRealInvestmentShow. The Market Rally is ON, yet oil prices are telling a different story about the economy. President Trump could be picking a successor to Fed Chairman Jerome Powell sooner than later. Lance and Michael expos...
Jun 26, 2025•46 min
Market speculation is at an all time high, yet there are economic surprises in store that could shake things up. There is now an illusion of economic strength. Lance discusses the recent reversal of the Death Cross in the S&P and NASDAQ; the Gold Cross is at an all time high. Lance and Danny address the new push to make private equity investing available for "the little guy," and the illusion of limited volatility. Beware the "good deals;" Wall Street will always find something to sell you i...
Jun 25, 2025•46 min
Is the threat of World War III finally off the table? Lance Roberts breaks down the latest developments in global conflict and what they mean for financial markets. From oil prices and defense stocks to safe-haven assets like gold and Treasuries, we’ll unpack how investors should think about geopolitical risk now. Are markets too complacent—or is the worst truly behind us? Is Apple dead? Lance addresses a YouTube Chatroom query with analysis of how Apple continues to do well, despite a paucity o...
Jun 24, 2025•46 min
Over the weekend, the U.S. launched strikes against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Of course, for Americans and the financial markets, the response from not only Iran but also Iran’s allies will be critical. Lance Roberts describes a process of logical evaluation and portfolio risk management when markets experience turmoil: What matters most to investors? What do these attacks mean for earnings? How might geopolitics affect EOQ activity? [NOTE: Lance is on vacation next week, 6/30-7/4] Remembering ...
Jun 23, 2025•46 min
It’s Fed Day! Will the Federal Reserve finally cut rates—or kick the can again? Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff break down what’s at stake, what markets are pricing in, and what it means for your money. Thursday is Juneteenth, markets are closed, and so are we. Lance reviews the track for crude oil prices and the likely effect on inflation as the Iran-Israel conflict continues. What will Jerome Powell say following today's Fed meeting? Fed grammar matters. Danny and Lance review elements of th...
Jun 18, 2025•46 min
What's the difference between fixed income and "stable" income? Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn break down the key differences between Dividend Stocks vs fixed income investments like bonds and annuities, and other strategies often labeled as stable income; how each performs in various market environments, the risks you may not see, and what every retiree or income-focused investor should consider. Lance and Jon also address the #1 Thing that homeowners regret about their houses, and a special...
Jun 17, 2025•46 min
Lance Roberts breaks down the latest developments in the Iran-Israel conflict and what they mean for global markets, oil prices, and investor sentiment. With tensions rising in the Middle East, we explore how geopolitical risk is shaping the outlook for the S&P 500, energy stocks, safe-haven assets like gold and Treasuries. Lance touches on the impact of Middle East conflicts on the stock market, how oil prices typically respond to geopolitical tension, and what sectors may benefit or suffer...
Jun 16, 2025•46 min
Is a college degree still worth the rising cost? As student loan debt climbs and tuition skyrockets, more families and young adults are asking whether a traditional four-year education offers a worthwhile return on investment. In this episode, we break down the financial data behind college costs, degree value by major, and explore growing alternatives like trade schools, certifications, and apprenticeships. Richard Rosso & Susan Buenger posit whether higher education is still the smart path...
Jun 13, 2025•46 min
May CPI surprised with a "cooler" print on inflation, begging the question of what the Fed will do next. Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz break down the CPI report, reveal what’s driving the slowdown in some consumer prices, and explore what it means for interest rates, your portfolio, and the broader economy. Who's going to end up "eating" the tariff-related increases? A clue may appear in the PPI reading. April saw a massiv surge in stock buy backs; that window will soon close. Lance and M...
Jun 12, 2025•46 min
Today is CPI Day, and all eyes are on the Consumer Price Index report for May. What will today’s CPI data mean for the Federal Reserve’s interest rate path and future market volatility? Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff examine the implications for stocks, bonds, and consumer sentiment. Lance questions the data the government is providing, and examines the Small Caps' performance of late. What will be the impact of tariffs on CPI? Why now is a "normal" interest rate environment. Nobody cares abo...
Jun 11, 2025•46 min
Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn uncover how private equity investments are no longer just for the ultra-wealthy...but is that the best plan? With Wall Street's latest push, retail investors are now being targeted as the next frontier for capital. From alternative investments in 2025 to the growing trend of private equity entering 401(k) plans, we break down what you need to know about the risks of private equity, the lack of transparency compared to public markets, and what this shift could me...
Jun 10, 2025•46 min
Are you waiting for the perfect moment to "buy the dip" but unsure how to spot it? Lance Roberts reveals how to identify smart entry points using technical analysis. From recognizing key support levels and reversal patterns, to understanding what oversold indicators are really telling you, we’ll walk you through the tools, charts, and signals that professional investors rely on. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a long-term investor trying to fine-tune your entry, this episode will help you bu...
Jun 09, 2025•46 min
Should the new retirement age be 70? Richard Rosso explores the financial, social, and personal implications of delaying retirement. What does working longer mean for your retirement planning in 2025 and beyond? Is it a necessity—or a trap? Whether you're nearing retirement or decades away, understanding how changes to the retirement age could affect your benefits and financial independence is critical. Listen or watch to hear what raising the Social Security age could mean for you and why 70 mi...
Jun 06, 2025•46 min
Are investors wrong to assume that rate cuts will automatically tame inflation? Lance Roberts and Michael Lebowitz challenge the belief that the Fed’s rate cuts always translate into lower inflation. Using historical data and current economic conditions, we explore how monetary policy really interacts with price pressures—and why rate cuts may actually stoke inflation under the wrong conditions. Specifically, Lance and Mike address the real impact of Federal Reserve rate cuts and inflation, why ...
Jun 05, 2025•46 min
Is a summer swoon looming in the stock market for 2025? Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff explore the historical performance of the S&P 500 and major sectors during the summer months—June through August, and examine whether investors should brace for a seasonal pullback, looking at historical June-to-August returns and volatility trends, what typically drives a summer slowdown in stocks, and sector-by-sector analysis: What holds up best in weak seasonal periods? How do global macroeconomic c...
Jun 04, 2025•47 min
Is America’s global leadership really fading? Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn reveal the truth behind the “decline of American exceptionalism” narrative, and why the U.S. continues to lead in economic strength, innovation, and global influence. Today's show also features several bonus elements, including a recap of Mrs. Robert's trip to the Vegas Bitcoin Expo and convention robots; an exposition on the alleged death of American Exceptionalism, and a follow-up to the story of Mrs. Roberts' inst...
Jun 03, 2025•46 min
Why does the stock market test our patience and nerve? Lance Roberts looks at the psychology of investing, how to master long-term strategies, and ways to navigate market volatility with confidence! Today is National Leave Work Early day...but before you do, make sure to tackle Lance's Monday Mandatory Reading list (links are provided below); Lance shares another tender moment from the Roberts' kitchen, and his essay on why buying stocks is hard any way you look at it (yet investors still do!) a...
Jun 02, 2025•46 min
Is 2025 the ideal time for a Roth conversion? RIchard Rosso considers future tax rates potentially on the rise and retirement goals in focus, and why converting to a Roth IRA could be a smart move. We’ll break down the rules, potential tax implications, and key strategies to maximize your tax-free retirement income. Whether you’re planning for retirement or looking to optimize your wealth, don’t miss this essential guide to Roth conversions in 2025 and beyond! [NOTE: Due to technical issues, the...
May 30, 2025•46 min
President Trump's tariffs are being negated by Trade Courts, and markets feel inspired. Nvidia reports earnings, and is poised for a 6% gain today; we're still on the cusp of all that AI can do. Lance and Michael discuss the importance of recognizing and shutting out the narratives that distract investors; why we all seem to need a reason "why" things are as they are. Commentary on Nvidia's technology "moat;" comparisons to Apple's growth curve. How narratives matter (and do not); fundamentals a...
May 29, 2025•46 min
It's “Nvidia Day!” The Big Dog in the Tall Grass for AI reports earnings after the closing bell today. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff delve into the anticipation surrounding Nvidia's upcoming earnings report, set to be released after today's market close. We'll explore market expectations, potential impacts on NVDA stock, and the broader implications for the AI and semiconductor sectors. Also a discussion about the inimitable Mrs. Roberts, and the profound changes AI is poised to wrought on g...
May 28, 2025•46 min
Discover the hidden influence of anchoring bias on investment decisions and learn actionable strategies to overcome it. Lance Roberts and Jonathan Penn share behavioral finance concepts and provide practical solutions for navigating cognitive pitfalls in today’s markets. Lance and Jon examine the literal ramifications of anchoring (example: real estate prices); why headlines are to be avoided; Lance's Calculus anecdote; secrets clients don't tell advisors. Lance provides a Nvidia Earnings Previe...
May 27, 2025•46 min
Are there hidden flaws in the One Big Beautiful Spending Bill? Danny Ratliff & Jonathan Penn expose what they're not telling you, diving into the fine print of the 2025 federal spending bill. Is it as beautiful as they claim—or are there costly warts hidden beneath the surface? Danny & Jon break down the economic risks inherent in the politics and pork. SEG-1: Will Investors Pause for Memorial Day Weekend? SEG-2: Wart on the One Big Beautiful Bill SEG-3: Advice for the Class of 2025, Pt ...
May 23, 2025•46 min
Are bonds cheap? Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz discuss whether or not bonds are a good buy now, with a composite bond market outlook, and the relationship of interest rates and bond prices. SEG-1: Hurricane Season & Market Pullback SEG-2: Bond Auction Reality - What did the dealers do? SEG-3: Debunking the Narratives & Bad, Scary Charts SEG-4: Why Bonds Are a Good Buy Now Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, w Portfolio Manager Michael Lebowitz, ...
May 22, 2025•46 min
Is this the beginning of a market correction—or just a healthy pullback? Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff break down recent volatility, key technical signals, and what smart investors should be watching right now; a review of Target & WalMart's earnings reports. Lance rebuts claims by Fisher Investments that stock buy backs do not affect markets. Convincingly. A review of Jamie Dimon's market complacency warnings, and Lance and Danny discuss on line shopping pro's and con's. Danny backs int...
May 21, 2025•46 min
Are investors dangerously ignoring risk? Despite signs of slowing economic growth, elevated valuations, and geopolitical uncertainty, markets continue to trend higher with remarkably low volatility. Lance Roberts & Jonathan Penn address whether or not markets too complacent, remembering wedding anniversaries, and whether the ratings agencies are to be believed: Why even rate Treasuries at all? A look at bad headlines (If it bleeds, it leads), and whether now is a terrible time to retire; the...
May 20, 2025•46 min
What does a lower credit rating mean for investors, interest rates, and the broader economy? Lance Roberts examines the implications of Moody’s recent U.S. debt downgrade, historical precedents, market reactions, and potential consequences for fiscal policy and the bond market. 🔑 Topics Covered: • Moody’s credit rating downgrade • U.S. debt crisis and fiscal outlook • Bond market reaction and yields • Investor strategies after a downgrade 📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more...
May 19, 2025•46 min
What if your Social Security benefits were no longer taxed? A new bill in Congress could make that happen — but is it real policy or just political posturing? Richard Rosso unpacks the proposal to eliminate federal income tax on Social Security, what it could mean for retirees, and the fiscal reality behind the promise. 🧾 What’s in the proposed legislation 💸 How it could impact retirement income ⚖️ The budget math Congress doesn’t want to talk about 👉 Subscribe to stay ahead of retirement pol...
May 16, 2025•46 min
Are rising yields a warning sign, or are they reflecting renewed economic strength? Lance Roberts & Michael Lebowitz dive into the latest movements in bond yields and what they signal for markets, the Fed, and your portfolio. Lance and Mike analyze the shape of the yield curve, interest rate forecasts, and what it all means for investors in 2025: * Why the 10-year Treasury yield is making headlines * Is the inverted yield curve still relevant? * What to watch from the Fed and inflation data ...
May 15, 2025•46 min
As markets climb higher, investors are rushing back into stocks. But is the chase for equity returns grounded in fundamentals—or just FOMO? Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff dive into the sudden surge in equity markets and the renewed appetite for risk. Is this rally sustainable—or are investors simply chasing performance at the top? What’s fueling the stock market rally in 2025, how is sentiment shifting, and why chasing returns in bull markets can be dangerous without a disciplined investment ...
May 14, 2025•46 min
