More for Your Money - Episodes Tagged with “S&P 500”

Episode 60: Navigating Market Rotation, Global Taxes, and After-Hours Trading - 02/14/2026

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 14 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Join host John Berkley and the Uncommon Cents Investing committee for an in-depth look at today’s shifting financial landscape. This episode explores the mechanics and risks of pre- and post-market trading, the current market rotation from "Mag 7" growth to small-cap value stocks, and how global debt trends from China and Japan may impact interest rates. The team also breaks down the Value Added Tax (VAT) versus the U.S. tax system and discusses why historical context and strategic portfolio "tweaks" are essential for navigating market volatility.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 55: Market Broadening and the Realities of Long-Term Care - 01/10/2026

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500

John Berkley discusses the strong 2026 market kickoff, highlighting significant gains in the Dow and Russell 2000 as the market broadens beyond the "Magnificent 7". Special guest Patrick Smith, owner of Visiting Angels, examines the growing preference for non-medical home care as a way to age at home. The episode provides a deep dive into long-term care insurance, covering the impact of the 1996 HIPAA Act, strategies for activating benefits, and navigating elimination periods to ensure policies function as assets rather than liabilities.

Special Guest: Patrick Smith.

Episode 52: Timeless Lessons from Financial Legends and the Great Depression - 12/20/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0500

Join host John Berkley for a weekly market recap before diving into a history lesson on financial legends from the 1920s and 30s. The episode explores the lives of William Durant and Jesse Livermore, analyzing the risks of high-leverage margin debt and the infamous "Rascub’s Folly". Berkeley clarifies the critical difference between a market crash and a depression, citing the historical impact of monetary policy. By sharing timeless wisdom from Phil Karee and Lucian Hooper, the show emphasizes that patience and a long-term perspective are the true keys to success. Ultimately, because human nature remains constant, Wall Street never truly changes.

Episode 51: Market Rotation, Fed Hype, and the Case for Long-Term Value Investing - 12/13/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 14:00:00 -0500

This episode features the Investment Committee discussing the mixed market data and the potential rotation from growth stocks (like the MAG 7) to value stocks and the broader market (Russell 2000). The hosts explore current market valuations, noting the stock market is expensive with double-digit returns baked into current prices. A major theme is the hosts' commitment to long-term value investing, emphasizing the discipline to focus on data and math over the distracting "soap opera" narrative surrounding the Federal Reserve, despite recent dovish statements and changes in the federal funds rate. They also examine gold as a way to preserve long-term purchasing power in an inflationary environment, arguing it reflects the dollar's decline rather than just market movement. The conversation concludes by referencing the emotional lessons and high margin debt levels noted in the historical book 1929.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 49: Roth IRA Conversions: The Wisconsin Tax Law That Changes Everything - 11/29/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0500

John Berkley discusses a strong market week before focusing on the major complexity added by a new Wisconsin state tax law. The law exempts up to $24,000 in retirement distributions per person (age 67 or older) from state tax. This significantly alters the decision to convert to a Roth IRA, as paying conversion taxes now means forfeiting the future state tax exemption on distributions. The discussion also covered year-end tax loss selling and complex estate planning issues, highlighting how the growing intricacy of tax and investment laws necessitates the help of a financial advisor.

Episode 48: Liquidity, Debt, and Private Credit: Navigating Hidden Dangers in Volatile Markets - 11/22/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0500

The More for Your Money panel reviewed a volatile week where all four major indexes declined, noting "mixed signals" indicative of a battle between bulls and bears. Guest Todd asserted that the market, by nearly every metric, is currently a bubble built on credit and debt, drawing historical parallels to 1929. A major concern discussed was liquidity risk, specifically identifying private equity/credit as a "hidden evil" due to its lack of regulation and transparency compared to public markets. The panel also debated a listener query regarding the risk of the federal government taking equity stakes in private strategic companies (like Intel) while managing massive national debt.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 47: The Auto Market and Economic Indicators with Guest Bob Clapper - 11/15/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 15 Nov 2025 15:00:00 -0500

Guest Bob Clapper, a collector car expert, provides a pulse on the automotive market, which serves as a leading economic indicator. Clapper discusses his career shift from nearly 40 years in the retail car business to focusing on collector car sales and vintage restoration through his dealership, Clapper Motorcars.
While the new car day supply is stable at an optimal 61 days, the market shows signs of slowing. Alarming trends include 29% of trade-ins having negative equity, averaging $6,900. High interest rates, reaching 7.5% in 2024, are preventing consumers from chipping away at their loan balances, contributing to this negative equity. Customer loyalty has also dropped significantly—down 25%—due to 80% of customers paying sticker price or more and being charged unexpected fees during shortages.

Episode 45: The Investing Meltup: Understanding the Psychology of FOMO and TINA - 11/01/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0400

John Berkley welcomes clinical psychologist Dr. Jim Burns to discuss the psychological forces driving today's expensive market. The conversation explores the current "meltup"—an extraordinarily rapid price increase detached from valuations—that is fueled by emotion, not rational behavior.
A major focus is on FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and TINA (There Is No Alternative), which have pushed investors out of bond equivalents and into risk assets. Dr. Burns notes that historical economic models assumed investors were rational, but financial decisions are often made emotionally. Berkeley emphasizes that current high valuations suggest expectations should be managed, and the key takeaway is the importance of adopting and adhering to a consistent investment strategy to avoid making poor choices based on market swings. The hosts also warn that the "backside" of a meltup can be severe.

Special Guest: James A. Burns, PhD.

Episode 44: Market Updates, Inflation, and Money Questions with John Berkley - 10/25/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0400

Review the strong three-year bull market run, with the S&P 500 up 16.6% total return year-to-date. This episode discusses 3% annualized inflation and the strategy of tweaking portfolios toward resource stocks. Key topics include utilizing Roth IRA CDs for tax efficiency, understanding the Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) tax rule for highly appreciated 401k stock, and proper tax placement of bonds and Treasuries. We also define money market funds.

Episode 43: Market Highs and Massive Cash Positions: Learning from Jim Rogers and Warren Buffett - 10/18/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 15:00:00 -0400

John Berkley, Greg, and Todd discuss the "extraordinarily expensive" stock market and elevated valuations. Although the S&P 500 is up 13.3% year-to-date, they highlight that legendary investors are signaling caution: Jim Rogers has sold every equity, holding 100% cash, and Warren Buffett maintains a high cash position. The discussion emphasizes that in this high-risk environment, the focus must be on preservation. They dissect the inverted yield curve, noting its 100% accuracy in predicting recession, which typically occurs 12 to 18 months after the inversion. The panel also examines the historical impact of the "Greenspan Put" and the current dangers posed by high margin debt.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 42: Market Selloff, Decoding the OBB, and Navigating New Tax Limits (SALT, Deductions, and Estate Taxes) - 10/11/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 13:00:00 -0400

John Berkley analyzes the sharp market selloff, largely triggered by tariff threats between the U.S. and China. The discussion moves to decoding the "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBB). John explores crucial tax changes for investors, including the temporary increase in the SALT (State and Local Tax) limit up to $40,000, which enables the "leapfrog" itemizing strategy. Plus, understand new above-the-line deductions and the latest phase-outs that primarily benefit lower and middle-income earners. We also clarify the increased estate tax exclusion limits for 2025.

Episode 41: The Cost of Investing: Evaluating Fee Platforms, Controlling Tax Gains, and Addressing the Risks of Global Inflation and the Shrinking Stock Market - 10/04/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 13:45:00 -0400

Join John Berkley for a comprehensive look at crucial financial decisions. John reviews the rising markets and discuss the complexities of transitioning to fee-based investment platforms, warning against potentially higher costs. Learn how managing individual stock portfolios allows for greater tax efficiency, utilizing concepts like the step-up in basis. The show tackles global concerns, including high federal debt, the risk of structural inflation, and the future status of the dollar. Finally, he explores why the U.S. stock market is shrinking due to regulations, and offer guidance on when to claim Social Security.

Episode 40: Local Service and Financial Freedom: The Case for Hiring a Financial Professional - 09/27/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 13:30:00 -0400

This episode of More for Your Money features host John Berkley and Krista Berkley. The discussion centers on the benefits of hiring a financial professional, focusing on the argument that good local service and expertise should pay for themselves. The hosts examine market activity, including the JDB indicator, and delve into detailed, subjective topics like Roth conversions and the debate over debt versus wealth accumulation. The conversation highlights the dynamic exchange between the two, noting that financial advice is highly personalized. They emphasize the need for knowledge, balance, and making good financial choices.

Special Guest: Krista Berkley.

Episode 39: The Investment Committee on Market Paradoxes, Structural Inflation, and Risk Reduction Strategy - 09/20/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Join John Berkley and the Investment Committee (Todd and Greg) analyzing the market’s paradox, where indexes soar despite more stocks declining than advancing. The discussion turns to the Federal Reserve’s dilemma, as rate cuts push longer-term yields higher, signaling increasing inflation risk. The committee tackles the problem of "unsustainable" debt and structural inflation, which acts as an indirect tax on citizens. Learn why experts recommend diversification, hard assets like gold, and reducing risk in today’s chaotic financial environment. Discover the strategy of tweaking your portfolio to find enduring value.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 38: Uncommon Cents: Wisdom on Decisions, Risk, and Retirement Strategies - 09/13/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode, John Berkley and Sheena Hanson discuss current market trends, noting an expensive market driven by growth stocks. They cover crucial financial topics like the Rule of 55 for early 401k withdrawals and the importance of trusted contacts for clients. John shares his personal philosophical quotes on decision-making, risk, and consequences, emphasizing learning from others' experiences. The episode also explores the emotional and practical aspects of retirement transition, spending habits, and the passion for one's work. Listeners are encouraged to review their financial plans and utilize the firm's website resources.

Episode 37: Beyond Predictions: Uncommon Cents Investing on Market Trends, Risk, and Unique Strategies - 09/06/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400

More for Your Money is a weekly podcast from Uncommon Cents Investing, hosted by John Berkley. Each episode offers clear, practical advice on investing, retirement planning, and smart money decisions to help you build financial confidence.

Episode 34: Ray Dalio on the Global Debt Crisis and Interest Rate Outlook - 08/16/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

Join John Berkley and Todd Berkley for an in-depth discussion centered on Ray Dalio's "The Changing World Order". They explore Dalio's warnings about the incredible global debt crisis across federal, personal, and corporate levels, and its profound implications for the global financial system.
The conversation also delves into the future of interest rates, particularly the divergence between short and long rates, and its potential impact on mortgage rates. Todd explains how the US dollar's status as a reserve currency influences borrowing costs and how banks are incentivized to keep short-term rates low. Listeners will gain insights into current market performance and the historical cycles of empires, prompting consideration of wealth accumulation versus wealth preservation strategies in a complex economic landscape. The show emphasizes the importance of disciplined investing and understanding these critical financial issues.

Special Guest: Todd Berkley.

Episode 33: The Future of Investing: AI, Productivity Gains, and Portfolio Bonds - 08/09/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0400

Join John Berkley and Sheena Hanson where they discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its influence on market valuations, noting its potential for "enormous productivity gains". Sheena shares practical examples of using AI daily as a "thinking partner" for tasks like packing lists and compliance logs.
The episode also delves into bonds, describing them as a "very, very misunderstood" asset class. They clarify bonds as a lending asset, explaining their historical underperformance due to inflation and their integral role in portfolios for income and stability, while detailing their varying risks and tax implications.

Episode 27: Navigating Market Records, Understanding Price vs. Value, and Fred Smith's Economic Insights - 06/28/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0400

This episode recaps current market records across major indexes like the Dow and S&P, highlighting recent surges and new highs. John and Sheena delve into the "perplexing" challenge of determining price versus value in investing, examining historical price-to-earnings multiples. Plus, gain insights from FedEx founder Fred Smith's economic views on free enterprise versus government control and the impact of transfer payments.

Episode 23: Insurance, Bonds, and Social Security Strategies - 05/31/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 31 May 2025 14:45:00 -0400

This episode of More for Your Money features John Berkley and Sheena Hanson discussing market performance and client situations. Topics include navigating complex estate planning and long-term care insurance, considering self-insurance for auto/home, decisions about exiting the market, understanding bond types, and Social Security strategies. They emphasize effective communication and leveraging resources.

Episode 20: Understanding Margin Debt in Your Brokerage Account - 05/10/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 10 May 2025 15:00:00 -0400

This episode explores leverage and margin debt in investing. Learn how it works, its significant risks (like margin calls), potential rewards, and tax implications. John explains Uncommon Cents Investing's approach, using margin only for select clients who can afford the risk and understand they could take a loss.

Episode 18: Analyzing a Big Up Week - V-Shape, Bear Trap, and Uncommon Cents Investing's Value Strategy

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400

The Uncommon Cents Investing Investment Committee discusses a strong market "up week". They debate V-shaped recovery vs. bear trap/secular bear market, highlighting their value investing strategy focusing on staying fully invested and managing investor emotion. A listener emphasizes the value of financial planners.

Special Guests: Greg Snyder and Todd Berkley.

Episode 17: Understanding Market Breadth, P/E Calculations, and Valuation Indicators - 04/19/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 19 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Todd Berkley joins John in a discussion of the current state of the market, noting that the S&P 500 was down for the week despite more stocks going up than down. The conversation delved into the complexities of price-earnings multiples, highlighting the differences between simple and aggregate calculations, as well as market-cap weighted versus equal-weighted P/E ratios. Todd explained the Buffett indicator, which compares total market cap to GDP, and the Schiller P/E, a 10-year inflation-adjusted ratio, both suggesting the market is expensive. They also touched upon the influence of events like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act on the market and discussed the insights of successful investors like Felix Zulauf, who had made accurate market predictions, and the perspective of Jeremy Siegel on potentially permanently higher P/E multiples due to increased money supply

Special Guest: Todd Berkley.

Episode 16: Volatility and Vision: Understanding Market Moves and the Path to Financial, Time, and Purpose Freedom - 04/12/2025

Uncommon Cents Investing — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400

The episode includes discussion around an article about a "ski bum" who learned the importance of financial freedom before pursuing time freedom and purpose, aligning with George Kinder's three freedoms of life. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasized the importance of having a long-term investment strategy and focusing on what individuals can control during market volatility