This week, we unpack the “K-shaped” economy everyone’s talking about. Who’s moving up, who’s sliding down, and what the latest data really says. From layoffs and earnings to tech volatility and political headlines, we break down the stories shaping markets and money right now in our "Week in Review" with Wealth Advisor, Austin Grandinetti and Chief Economic Strategist, Dr. Brian Jacobsen. Also on the show, tax planning strategies later in life like one couple in their 80's. You'll also hear if it's ever a good idea to pause your 401(k) contributions, and how to restart if you do.
It was a big week for central banks — from rate cuts and policy holds to talk of wrapping up quantitative tightening. The Fed made another move, bringing questions about what 2025 might bring. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack the key takeaways in this Week In Review. Plus, we’ll dive into the “Labubu Trend” shaking up the collectibles market and what it teaches about investor behavior. Wrapping up the show, we highlight six practical benefits of using trusts in your financial planning.
Finally, some data! The CPI release that determines the 2026 cost of living adjustment for Social Security Benefits is out. Foreign data is still rolling in. China’s challenges are evident…and likely to get worse unless there’s a deal. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen will break it down in our Week in Review. Also on the show, myths about taxes. Was getting a big refund check a good idea? Later in the show, we'll talk with Deanne Phillips about taking advantage of tax benefits and resources if you are a caregiver for someone in your home.
Treasury Secretary Bessent said the department is prioritizing payments in its system in order to allow for US military staff to be paid. Also, banks have said loan quality is pretty good.
The government shutdown. TSA agents are calling in sick. That ended the shutdown in 2019. Will it this time? ACA subsidies are the sticking point. That and anxious investors drive gold prices above $4,000 an ounce, marking its best year since the 1976.
Could the government shutdown signal deeper cuts to federal employment? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review. Also on the show: Smart planning strategies for medical professionals, meaningful ways grandparents can support their grandchildren, and an inside look at the Annex process for High-Net-Worth clients.
With the federal government's fiscal year-end nearing and no compromise in sight, join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. This episode also explores the 4% retirement rule, Warren Buffett-style estate planning, why your 401(k) isn’t a piggy bank, and common myths about trusts.
Economic growth may have already weathered its toughest challenges, with brighter days likely ahead. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss the Federal Reserve’s latest decision. The show also examines 529 plans for education savings, key steps to selling a business, estate planning considerations for remarriage, and strategies to ensure a fulfilling retirement.
Did Spring 2024 to Summer 2024 have a mini recession? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss how the Bureau of Labor Statistics significantly overestimated employment figures in early 2024, missing signs of a slowdown that may have bordered on one. With the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates soon, there's an emphasis on the importance of transparency in economic data, and the Fed’s challenge in balancing inflation control with supporting a cooling economy. Also, how to "age in place," and what to be aware of with lifestyle creep.
U.S. job growth slowed in August, reflecting a weakening labor market, with a net loss of 13,000 jobs reported in June. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Also on today's show: exploring the stages of retirement, supporting adult children, and key retirement planning tips—three things to do now and three things that can wait.
Earnings season is wrapping up, and the results are promising. FactSet reports that 81% of S&P 500 companies surpassed earnings expectations, with 58% raising their full-year 2025 earnings guidance. The “beat and raise” trend has been music to investors’ ears. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review, where we break down the latest market insights. This week, we also explore why some people claim Social Security earlier than recommended, tackle the question of how much insurance you really need, and check in with Todd Voit, Chief Investment Strategist, for his expert perspective.
The housing market grapples with low builder confidence due to high mortgage rates and regulatory costs, alongside rising starts, falling permits, and high cancellations. In our Week-in-Review, Brian Jacobsen discusses these housing challenges, followed by separate insights on equity compensation and the rise in 'gray divorce.'
Inflation seems to have gone down to a manageable level. Does the Fed agree? And does the 4% rule still apply? Business sales transitions are an opportunity to reset your plan.
The year started with major uncertainties in tax, trade, and Federal Reserve policies, which are now mostly resolved. The focus has shifted to how the economy will adapt. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. We’ll also discuss concerns about using a 401(k) as an emergency fund, what qualifies as financial planning (and what doesn’t), remarriage and estate planning, and more.
Rather than a trade war, which implies retaliation, we'll examine the latest trade policy developments and analyze Friday's jobs report. Our ongoing coverage of the One Big Beautiful Bill continues with insights on its tax implications and three key considerations for parents. Additionally, we'll discuss planning for blended families, essential pre-retirement questions, and a special segment on Generation X.
The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving.
Despite challenging weather, the economy could gain momentum once the tariff "deadline" passes, with the One Big Beautiful Bill’s tax incentives spurring investment and growth. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Plus, meet the newest member of the Annex Private Client team, explore six key benefits of trusts, learn how Annex supports clients planning a part-time retirement, and discover ways grandparents can financially support their grandchildren.
The "One Big Beautiful Bill's" 2025 provisions include business incentives, tax exemptions on tips and overtime, increased deductions, and an expanded child tax credit, all poised to deliver immediate economic impact. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. We'll also debunk a few tax myth before diving into planning for passion assets like cars, art, and wine.
Economists anticipated a slowdown in job growth due to uncertainties surrounding trade and fiscal policies, but the data tells a different story. Brian Jacobsen shares insights in our Week-in-Review. This episode also covers key topics, including the steps to selling a business, the role of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst at Annex, strategies for successfully transitioning ownership of a family vacation property, and tips for dividing passion assets to prevent family conflicts.
The Fed initially suggested that tariffs would gradually raise prices while slowing growth more gradually. However, recent trends show growth declining faster than inflation is rising. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this shift and other key topics. The episode also concludes our Financial Jargon series, explores the 4% rule, reviews Warren Buffett’s perspective on inheritance, and highlights connections between better health and lower taxes.