エピソード

  • Tariffs Explained: The Good And The Bad
    2024/12/23
    In this episode of Nurturing Financial Freedom, we delve into the timely topic of tariffs, their economic implications, and their resurgence in U.S. policy under President Trump’s leadership. Alex Cabot and Ed Lambert of Birch Run Financial provide a clear breakdown of what tariffs are, who pays them, and their pros and cons.We begin by defining tariffs as taxes imposed on imported or exported goods. Alex clarifies a common misconception: while tariffs aim to promote domestic industries by making imported goods more expensive, it is the U.S. importer—not foreign governments or exporters—who pays these taxes. Importers often pass these costs on to consumers, leading to higher prices, though in some cases, businesses absorb the costs, reducing their margins.Tariffs have several objectives. They protect domestic industries by encouraging consumers to buy locally, generate government revenue, address trade imbalances, and promote national security. They can also support emerging industries and serve as negotiating tools in trade disputes. For instance, the current administration appears to be using tariffs as leverage in international trade negotiations, particularly with Mexico and China.Ed expands on the downsides of tariffs, including their potential to trigger trade wars, where reciprocal tariffs harm businesses and consumers on both sides. Tariffs can also disrupt global supply chains, drive inflation, and reduce economic efficiency. For example, industries reliant on imported materials may face squeezed profit margins or pass costs onto consumers, further exacerbating financial strain. Additionally, widespread tariffs can slow global economic growth by undermining the interconnectedness of modern economies.The discussion concludes with a balanced perspective. While tariffs can be a useful tool to protect strategic industries or as a negotiation tactic, blanket tariffs across all trading partners are generally counterproductive. Thoughtful implementation is critical to avoid unintended consequences.Alex and Ed emphasize their commitment to breaking down complex topics for listeners, encouraging questions, and offering consultations. For more insights, they invite listeners to connect via their website, email, or social media. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member ...
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    19 分
  • How Could the Election Results Affect The Market?
    2024/11/21
    In this episode of Nurturing Financial Freedom, we discuss how the markets responded to the certainty brought by the recent Presidential election and what history suggests about post-election market performance. While maintaining a nonpartisan lens, we explore the relationship between political outcomes and financial markets.Ed starts by analyzing market movements in the week following the election. He highlights that the clear election outcome brought a sense of relief and stability to the markets, avoiding the prolonged uncertainty seen in prior cycles. This certainty spurred optimism, particularly around potential corporate tax extensions and reduced regulation, both of which are expected to support corporate profits. Financial stocks and small-cap U.S. stocks were notable outperformers, buoyed by deregulation hopes and domestic market focus, respectively. However, bonds and international stocks underperformed due to rising bond yields and a strengthening U.S. dollar, which hurt returns on foreign investments.Alex then shifts the focus to historical trends, emphasizing that while markets typically perform well post-election, this is consistent with broader market behavior rather than directly attributable to election outcomes. He notes that since 1980, nine of 11 post-election years saw positive market returns, averaging 15.6%, higher than the overall market average. Yet, these gains often stem from broader economic conditions rather than the Presidency itself- correlation does not mean causation!He reminds us that the stock market, like a nimble speedboat, can react quickly to news, whereas the economy, more akin to a massive aircraft carrier, changes direction only with significant events. Regardless of political shifts, long-term economic fundamentals and corporate earnings drive market performance. Again, reactionary changes to investment strategies based solely on political outcomes are unwise.The discussion closes with a look ahead, noting that volatility can increase under a new administration but isn’t guaranteed. Historical examples, such as the quiet markets of 2017 following Trump's first inauguration, illustrate the unpredictable nature of post-election market behavior.Throughout, we stress the importance of focusing on long-term investment strategies rather than short-term political or market fluctuations. For personalized guidance, Birch Run Financial invites listeners to reach out through their website or social media channels. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, ...
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    21 分
  • The 2024 Election and The Economy
    2024/10/21
    Today, Alex Cabot and Ed Lambert from Birch Run Financial dive into the intersection of politics and financial markets, focusing on the upcoming election. We discuss widespread market myths and offer a data-driven approach to navigating political cycles as an investor.Alex begins by addressing common misconceptions about election years and market volatility. Despite popular belief, election years do not inherently cause heightened volatility. Examining the past nine presidential elections, Alex highlights that only three were more volatile than average—2000, 2008, and 2020—events driven not by elections, but by major economic crises such as the tech bubble burst, the financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.Another misconception Alex tackles is the belief that markets perform better under Republican administrations due to their perceived pro-business stance. Historical data shows that markets have actually done well under both Democratic and Republican presidencies. Staying invested throughout all political cycles, regardless of the party in power, yields better long-term results, as markets ultimately respond more to economic fundamentals than to political leadership.Ed wraps up the discussion with an optimistic outlook on the U.S. economy. He emphasizes that, no matter the election outcome, the U.S. will continue to be the world’s dominant economic power. Key statistics reinforce this point: the U.S. GDP is currently 55% larger than China’s, and the country leads in energy production and technological innovation. He also points to the U.S.'s demographic advantages, including high immigration rates, which help sustain economic growth compared to other developed nations with aging populations.The episode underscores the importance of remaining calm and focused on long-term financial goals, no matter the election results. The U.S. economy is resilient, and sound investment strategies should not be swayed by political fearmongering or short-term volatility. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Birch Run Financial is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Birch Run Financial is located at 595 E Swedesford Rd, ...
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    21 分
  • Fed Cuts Rates - Where Are We Headed?
    2024/09/26
    In this episode, we discuss the recent Federal Reserve rate cut and its implications for the market and economy. The Fed reduced its overnight lending rate by half a percentage point, bringing it down from 5.25% to 4.75%. This was the first rate cut since March 2020, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. The Fed's dual mandate—maintaining price stability and maximizing employment—guides its decisions. With inflation largely under control, the Fed is now able to focus on adjusting rates to support employment without risking economic stability.Ed explains that the current rate reduction is a strategic move, allowing the Fed flexibility to respond to future economic challenges. With rates still relatively high, the Fed has room to cut further if needed, but prefers a gradual approach to avoid destabilizing progress against inflation. He mentions the possibility of additional cuts later this year, barring any sudden spikes in inflation.Alex highlights how the market has reacted to the Fed's actions, noting that price-to-earnings ratios and bond yields adjusted even before the official rate cut. This preemptive adjustment is common as markets tend to "price in" expected policy changes. However, he cautions that predicting future interest rates accurately is challenging, and the Fed's projections often diverge from reality.We also explore the potential impact of these rate changes on the housing market. Higher interest rates have made borrowing more expensive, which affects home affordability. Many homeowners who refinanced at low rates may be reluctant to sell and take on a new mortgage at higher rates, constraining housing supply. Despite these challenges, Alex advises that personal financial decisions, such as purchasing a home, should be based on individual circumstances rather than solely on market conditions.Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of having a personalized, all-weather investment strategy that can withstand various economic scenarios. Rather than making reactive changes based on market fluctuations, maintaining a consistent and well-thought-out plan tailored to individual goals and risk tolerance is crucial. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services ...
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    26 分
  • The Winds of Change?
    2024/08/20
    In this episode of "Nurturing Financial Freedom," we discuss the surprising market volatility that occurred in early August 2024 and explore what investors should take away from these events. But first, we actually met in person last month - for the first time after working together for over five years!The market's volatility in August was triggered primarily by two factors: weaker-than-expected economic reports and high market valuations. The Institute for Supply Management’s report on business indicated declining confidence in the manufacturing sector, which, alongside a disappointing non-farm payroll report, caused investors to worry that the economy might be slowing too quickly in its fight against inflation. This led to a significant market pullback, particularly in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which dropped 2,000 points over a few days. But even in the time between writing this episode and recording it, market volatility has calmed.Alex and Ed emphasize that while these reports sparked concern, the broader economic context remains positive. They remind listeners that market fluctuations are normal, and short-term downturns don’t necessarily signal long-term issues. The key takeaway is the importance of maintaining a balanced and diversified portfolio to withstand such volatility. They also highlight the Federal Reserve's potential role in stabilizing the economy, noting that if a significant slowdown occurs, the Fed has the ability to cut interest rates to stimulate growth. It's possible we see this after their next meeting in September.Predicting short-term market movements is extremely difficult, akin to forecasting the weather. Instead, the focus should be on long-term strategies and maintaining perspective during turbulent times. Ed advises against panicking during market volatility, stressing the importance of staying the course with a well-diversified investment plan. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Birch Run Financial is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Birch Run Financial is located at 595 E Swedesford Rd, Ste 360, Wayne PA 19087 and can be reached at 484-395-2190. Any rating is ...
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    17 分
  • 2024 Mid-Year Market Review
    2024/07/18
    This month, Alex Cabot and Ed Lambert of Birch Run Financial discuss the financial landscape of the first half of 2024. They delve into how economic conditions and market performance have evolved, noting that the year hasn't gone as initially expected, yet has yielded positive results overall.Ed begins by providing an overview of the year's economic and market developments. At the start of 2024, there was significant optimism due to a strong stock market rally in late 2023, driven by improving inflation data. This optimism led many to anticipate multiple interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. However, inflation progress stalled in the first quarter of 2024, delaying the anticipated rate cuts. Despite this, the market performed well, with the S&P 500 rising by roughly 15% in the first half of the year. Ed attributes this to resumed inflation progress, stable economic growth, and the strong performance of leading AI companies.Alex then provides a more detailed breakdown of asset class performances (info courtesy of YCharts). He highlights the disparity between growth and value stocks within the S&P 500, with growth stocks significantly outperforming value stocks. Notably, the top seven stocks in the S&P 500, primarily tech giants like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple, saw dramatic gains, significantly driving overall market performance. Mid-cap stocks returned 6.2%, while small-cap stocks slightly declined. International markets showed moderate gains, and bond markets saw slight declines due to the lack of expected rate cuts.The conversation shifts to the importance of diversification. Alex emphasizes that while concentrated investments in a few top-performing stocks can yield high returns, this strategy carries significant risks. He underscores the value of a diversified portfolio, which spreads risk across various sectors and asset classes, reducing the potential for substantial losses. Diversification, he explains, is designed to provide stability and steady growth over the long term, rather than capitalizing on short-term market trends.The hosts also touch on the emotional aspects of investing, discussing how fear and greed can drive poor financial decisions. They stress the importance of working with financial professionals who can offer objective, rational advice, helping investors navigate market fluctuations without succumbing to emotional impulses.Overall, the first half of 2024 has reinforced the value of diversification and the importance of maintaining a balanced investment strategy. Despite unexpected developments, a well-diversified portfolio has proven resilient and capable of delivering positive returns.Gold is subject to the special risks associated with investing in precious metals, including but not limited to: price may be subject to wide fluctuation; the market is relatively limited; the sources are concentrated in countries that have the potential for instability; and the market is unregulated. Bond prices and yields are subject to change based upon market conditions and availability. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect...
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    24 分
  • The Risks of Overconcentration: Protecting Your Wealth
    2024/06/21
    In this episode of "Nurturing Financial Freedom," we discuss the crucial topic of the dangers of putting too much money into a single investment, often referred to as concentration risk.Alex starts by explaining that concentration risk, while not unique to any one type of investment, is particularly prevalent in stocks. He dispels the common "eggs in one basket" analogy by emphasizing that diversification means more than just spreading investments across similar types. True diversification involves spreading investments across different asset classes to reduce risk.Alex outlines two main problems with overconcentration. First, the actual investment result can be highly unpredictable. While betting heavily on a successful company like Google or Amazon at the right time could have been life-changing, many other seemingly promising stocks like Pets.com or Copper Mountain did not deliver. The second problem is the moral hazard that success can create. If an investor gets lucky once, they might believe they are smarter than the market, leading to risky behavior that can eventually result in significant losses.Jag draws a parallel with gambling, noting that while investing done right has a positive long-term expectation, gambling generally does not. Alex agrees, stressing that concentrating money in a single security is akin to gambling and should be avoided.Ed then discusses two types of overconcentration: voluntary and automatic. Voluntary overconcentration happens when investors intentionally buy large amounts of a single stock, often due to recent performance. Automatic overconcentration occurs when employees accumulate large amounts of their employer's stock through compensation packages. He explains the psychological factors at play, including recency bias, where people expect recent trends to continue indefinitely, and loyalty to their company, which can cloud judgment.Ed also highlights the practical issues, such as tax liabilities and the emotional difficulty of selling high-performing stocks. He shares a cautionary tale of a pharmaceutical company whose stock plummeted due to unforeseen issues, causing employees to lose significant portions of their net worth and even their jobs. This example underscores the importance of not being overly reliant on any single company, especially one’s employer.To mitigate these risks, Alex advises that no more than 5% of a portfolio should be invested in a single security, with a cautious approach to anything between 5% and 10%. Exceeding this 10% can make financial planning difficult, as the range of potential outcomes becomes too broad and unpredictable.Jag and Ed conclude by reinforcing the importance of a diversified portfolio for long-term financial success. They stress that while high-risk bets can occasionally pay off, the potential for catastrophic losses makes them unsuitable for most investors. Instead, maintaining a balanced and diversified investment strategy helps ensure financial stability and success. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot...
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    28 分
  • The Case for Long-Term Optimism
    2024/05/28
    In this episode of the Nurturing Financial Freedom podcast, we explore a topic that often gets lost amidst daily media noise: the long-term optimism about the future of the United States. We delve into why, despite current challenges, there's a compelling case for optimism.Ed Lambert kicks off the discussion by highlighting the quality of life in the U.S. in 2024. Americans enjoy a standard of living unparalleled in human history. While acknowledging the country's challenges, Ed emphasizes the transformative impact of technology and innovation. Today's ubiquitous cell phones, powerful computers, and AI advancements exemplify this progress. These technologies, Ed argues, have dramatically increased productivity and will continue to do so, ensuring economic growth even as the labor force growth slows.Ed also addresses concerns about AI displacing jobs. He believes that while AI will disrupt certain sectors, it will also create new opportunities, much like the automobile did a century ago. People will adapt by transitioning to roles that leverage AI as a tool, enhancing productivity and economic efficiency.The discussion then shifts to the U.S.'s unique position in the global economy. Ed notes that declining birth rates and aging populations are global phenomena, but the U.S. remains an attractive destination for immigrants seeking better lives. This influx of talent fuels innovation and entrepreneurship, sustaining economic growth. Unlike its primary adversaries, China and Russia, the U.S. benefits from a favorable economic structure and remains a magnet for global talent and investment.Alex Cabot supports this optimistic outlook with data. He compares the U.S. economy today with past decades, showing significant growth in GDP and per capita income, even when adjusted for inflation. Alex paints a stark contrast between the living standards in 1955 and today, demonstrating massive improvements in housing, income, education, and life expectancy.He also broadens the perspective to a global scale, noting that extreme poverty has dramatically decreased worldwide. A century ago, 80% of the global population lived in extreme poverty; today, it's less than 10%. This decline is a testament to the positive impact of technological and economic advancements on humanity as a whole.In concluding, Alex argues that long-term optimism is crucial for financial planning. While media often highlights uncertainties and negative events, focusing on the broader, long-term trends reveals a trajectory of continuous improvement. And he uses Jag's favorite weather analogy.This episode reinforces the importance of maintaining a positive outlook on the future, grounded in data and historical context. The U.S., with its robust economy and culture of innovation, is well-positioned to continue thriving in the decades to come. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert Alex Cabot, and Jon Gay and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing ...
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    28 分