Money Matters with Greg

A stronger-than-expected market can make us feel confident, but the real wins show up when our tax and savings decisions are just as intentional as our investments. We open with what actually moved the indexes lately—resilient earnings, AI noise, and surprising consumer strength—then translate that backdrop into a practical, year-end playbook you can act on before December 31. The goal: keep more of what you earn, compound with less friction, and enter the new year with a cleaner, calmer financial plan.

We walk through the highest-impact moves first. Max your 401(k) match and revisit whether pretax or Roth contributions fit your bracket now versus later. If household income is down, consider a partial Roth conversion and set an early-December paperwork deadline so it actually gets done. Understand the new RMD age under Secure Act 2.0 and how Roth IRAs avoid lifetime RMDs. Then layer in health and education tactics: fund an HSA for triple-tax benefits, review FSA rules so you don’t forfeit funds, and use 529 plans for tax-free education growth and potential state credits, with an eye on the updated rollover rules that reduce the risk of overfunding.

We also dig into tax-efficient investing that compounds quietly. Place high-turnover funds and taxable bonds in tax-advantaged accounts, lean on index ETFs in taxable, and consider municipal bonds if your bracket warrants it. Before year-end, request mutual fund distribution estimates to avoid surprise tax bills, and double-check if tax-loss harvesting suits your situation. For those eyeing a move, evaluate total tax burden before changing residency; low income taxes can be offset by higher sales or property taxes. Throughout, we share how we stay invested with minimal idle cash, focus on trends with real earnings, and use checklists to beat calendar risk.

If this helped you plan your next move, subscribe, share the show with a friend who needs a nudge before year-end, and send us your top question—we might feature it next week.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

Markets are hot, headlines are louder, and it’s getting harder to tell what actually moves your money. We dig into why earnings strength and stable macro drivers have kept the S&P 500 climbing, even as trade talk and shutdown noise try to steal the spotlight. You’ll hear a clear breakdown of what’s fueling recent highs, where momentum is cooling, and how to separate durable signals from fast‑fading narratives.

We also take a hard look at the rare earth rush. With China controlling most production and refining capacity, every hint of new U.S. supply can spike stocks. Sound familiar? It’s the AI playbook all over again. We share a simple framework to evaluate minerals stories: project stage, refining access, offtake agreements, realistic throughput, and balance sheet strength. If the thesis rests on buzz, size it like optionality. If the unit economics pencil out, consider a measured position or diversified exposure. The goal isn’t to chase the pop, but to participate in value creation with guardrails.

Shutdown concerns are everywhere, yet history shows markets usually shrug. We explain why most shutdown effects are temporary, how they differ from debt ceiling risks, and what that means for your allocation. The takeaway is steady: stick to your plan, rebalance with intent, and favor quality over hype. On a lighter note, we’re headed to Washington for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses summit to meet with Indiana’s lawmakers and advocate for small business growth. Got a question you want raised on your behalf?

Listen now, send us your question for DC, and if you found value, subscribe, share the show, and leave a quick review so more investors can find it.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

Markets are flirting with all-time highs while official data stalls—a strange mix that demands sharper signals and steadier conviction. We walk through the flat open, the week’s global moves, and why investor patience might outpace the Fed’s projections as minutes hint at more easing this year. From Nvidia’s export greenlight and early reads from Pepsi and Delta to a steadier dollar and softer Treasuries, we connect the dots on how chips, consumer demand, and currency are shaping third-quarter positioning.

Our focus turns to earnings: why Q3 may be light on drama yet strong on delivery, how AI capital spending continues to power the Magnificent Seven, and where margin resilience meets tariff reality. We break down the effective tariff rate, the legal uncertainties ahead, and the practical reasons the macro hit has been smaller than feared—services insulation, supply-chain rewiring, and AI-led productivity gains. With global benchmarks firming, Europe shrugging off auto weakness, and Asia rebounding post-holiday, we outline the setup for a broader advance if policy and profits keep working.

We also zoom out to what matters when government data goes dark: management guidance, order books, lead times, and market internals like credit spreads and the dollar. Expect a constructive path for earnings into year-end, potential breadth beyond mega-cap tech, and ongoing EPS support from buybacks. Whether you’re leaning growth for AI leverage or eyeing cyclicals for a catch-up, this conversation offers a clear map of risks and catalysts to watch.

Enjoyed the breakdown? Follow and subscribe for more real-time market context, share this episode with a friend who trades the headlines, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

Confused about trusts? You're not alone. In this enlightening episode, we demystify the complex world of trust planning and explain how these powerful tools can safeguard your legacy and protect your loved ones.

We begin by sharing insights from Opportunity Enterprises' Legacy Luncheon, where charitable giving takes center stage in estate planning conversations. The intersection of philanthropy and wealth transfer presents fascinating opportunities for those seeking to make a lasting impact on causes they care about, while potentially gaining tax advantages.

The Federal Reserve's recent decision to cut interest rates to 4.25% marks a significant shift in monetary policy. Unlike previous cutting cycles, today's market shows remarkable stability with high probabilities of additional cuts in October and December. This measured response contrasts sharply with the counterintuitive market reactions we saw in 2024, offering a more predictable environment for investors planning.

The heart of our discussion focuses on trust fundamentals: what they are, how they work, and whether you actually need one. We explore the critical differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts, the protection they offer from probate and public scrutiny, and the common pitfall of failing to fund them adequately after creation. For those with charitable intentions, specialized vehicles like Charitable Lead Trusts and Charitable Remainder Trusts deserve serious consideration, particularly for highly appreciated assets.

Whether your estate is modest or substantial, understanding the various trust options—from Special Needs Trusts to Generation-Skipping Trusts—can help you make informed decisions about protecting your family's future. Before establishing any trust, consider consulting with qualified professionals who can ensure your strategy aligns with your unique circumstances and objectives.

Ready to explore how trusts might fit into your financial picture? Contact us at [email protected] or 219-246-2516 to continue the conversation about securing your legacy and protecting what matters most.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

So excited to welcome my Mom to the show. She got me started with investing, and we continue to talk about the stock market and economics almost daily. Love you, Mom!

When it comes to investment wisdom, sometimes the most valuable insights come from unexpected sources. Meet Delores "Dee" Farrall, a former nurse with no formal business education who transformed herself into an investment guru through determination and disciplined learning after professional money managers lost her family's retirement savings.

"They're all going to lose money. I can at least lose money. I better learn this stuff," Delores recalls thinking in the mid-1970s when she decided to take control of her husband's medical practice retirement funds. This pragmatic approach led her to financial courses at Wittenberg University, where she discovered her north star for investing: the Rule of 72.

The elegance of this principle captivated Delores so completely that decades later, she still writes it in the front of every investment notebook she uses. "If you have $1 and you put it in for 72 years, it will become $2 if you're able to get 1% interest," she explains. "At 24% - which is possible, I've had those years - you can double your money in three years." This fundamental understanding of compound growth has guided her through market cycles with remarkable success.

What sets Delores apart isn't complex algorithms or constant market watching, but rather her unwavering discipline. She maintains stop-loss orders on all positions (typically around 10%), uses Good-Till-Cancelled buy orders at predetermined price points, and focuses intently on a manageable portfolio. "I really basically follow about 10 stocks really well," she shares. "You can get into too many; it gets confusing." Her analog tracking system - starting a fresh spiral notebook each January - helps her make unemotional decisions based on trends and performance.

For new investors feeling overwhelmed, her advice cuts through complexity: just begin. "The best way to follow a stock is to buy a couple of shares of it. You'll follow it so much better if your money's in it than if it isn't." This practical wisdom has not only built her own financial security but influenced a generation of investors, including her son Greg Farrall, who hosts Money Matters and runs Farrall Wealth Management.

Want more investment wisdom from "The Guru"? Email [email protected] with your questions for Delores or to request her return to the show. Listen to Money Matters with Greg on WVLP 103.1 FM Thursdays at 1pm, with replays Saturdays at 1pm, or find it wherever you get your podcasts.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

The financial world is witnessing the rise of what experts call the "Degenerate Economy" - a fascinating yet concerning trend where retail investors are betting on virtually anything that moves. From traditional stocks to cryptocurrency, from sports outcomes to inflation rates, the lines between investing and gambling have never been more blurred.

As markets hit all-time highs across major indices, this new wave of speculation deserves our attention. The Degenerate Economy Index, tracking companies benefiting from this behavior, has surged an astonishing 156% since 2023, vastly outperforming traditional benchmarks. Companies like Robinhood have seen their stock skyrocket 450% in just twelve months as they expand into prediction markets, while sports betting platforms are moving into financial predictions.

This phenomenon mirrors the dot-com era's speculative frenzy - a period I witnessed firsthand as a trader in Chicago's pits. Back then, we called ourselves "degenerates" for betting on anything imaginable. Today's digital version is more accessible and widespread, fueled by mobile technology and social platforms connecting millions of young investors to markets with just a few taps.

While this trend creates opportunities, it comes with significant warnings. During market downturns, these speculative investments typically suffer more dramatic losses. The Degenerate Economy Index plunged 41% in 2022, nearly double the decline of broader markets. As September historically sees pullbacks when August performs strongly (as it has this year), caution is warranted.

Looking ahead, we'll explore smart investing strategies across various life stages - from Gen Z's first investments to retirement planning for Baby Boomers. We'll tackle debt management, home buying in challenging markets, college funds, tax strategies, and specialized approaches for business owners and women investors.

Have questions about navigating today's complex financial landscape? Email [email protected] - I'd love to address your specific concerns in future episodes. Remember, disciplined investing beats speculation over time. Your financial future shouldn't be a casino.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

The economic landscape is shifting beneath our feet as we transition from summer to fall. Recent data has painted a concerning picture of economic slowdown, with the latest jobs report delivering disappointing numbers and significant downward revisions spanning multiple months. What was once a resilient labor market is clearly losing steam, signaling broader economic deceleration that's reshaping Federal Reserve policy expectations almost overnight.

Market sentiment has undergone a dramatic transformation. The probability of a September rate cut has surged from 25% to over 80% in just one week. Fed Chair Powell's less-than-definitive comments triggered substantial market volatility, but the subsequent weak jobs data has convinced investors that monetary easing is now inevitable. We're likely looking at two to three rate cuts before year-end, a complete reversal from earlier expectations.

Yet amid this economic uncertainty, corporate America continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. Earnings have significantly outperformed expectations, with growth tracking above 10% year-over-year – more than double what analysts initially projected. Technology giants have been the primary drivers, fueled by substantial investments in artificial intelligence that are transforming business models and creating new growth opportunities. This earnings strength suggests companies are adapting effectively despite headwinds.

For investors, the message remains clear: stay invested but stay vigilant. Market pullbacks, while uncomfortable, are healthy components of bull markets that often create buying opportunities. A well-diversified portfolio remains your best defense against the complex crosscurrents we're navigating. The combination of slowing economic growth, potential rate cuts, ongoing trade tensions, and remarkable corporate resilience creates a challenging but navigable investment landscape.

Have questions about positioning your portfolio for what lies ahead? Reach out to discuss how these economic shifts might affect your financial future. And don't forget to subscribe to Money Matters with Greg for weekly insights that help you make sense of the financial forces shaping your life.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

Tired of wondering where your tax dollars go? The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) aims to transform the way government spending is managed while delivering substantial tax benefits to Americans at every income level.

Think of it as cleaning out 47 messy junk drawers in your house and organizing them into one efficient system. Or, better yet, upgrading from dial-up internet to fiber-optic cable. This sweeping legislation requires government programs to demonstrate measurable outcomes to continue receiving funding, creating unprecedented accountability and transparency in how your money is spent.

The most immediate impact for most Americans? Tax cuts that were scheduled to expire in 2026 are now permanent. Despite political rhetoric suggesting only those earning over $400,000 would see tax increases, the reality is that anyone making over $35,000 would face higher taxes without this fix. A household earning $50,000 would have paid an additional $1,200 to $1,800 annually, while those earning $150,000 could have seen nearly $10,000 in increased taxes. That uncertainty is now eliminated.

Beyond tax stability, OBBA delivers targeted benefits across the economic spectrum. The standard deduction will become permanently higher ($15,750 for singles and $31,500 for married couples in 2025). Residents of high-tax states get relief with a SALT deduction cap raised to $40,000. Service industry workers can deduct up to $12,500 in tips ($25,000 for couples), potentially saving thousands of dollars. Families see an increased child tax credit of $2,200 per child with expanded refundability, while seniors gain a special $6,000 deduction that could eliminate taxes on Social Security for millions.

Business owners receive certainty with a permanent 20% Qualified Business Income deduction, enhanced depreciation options, and simplified expense deductions. For estate planning, the exemption increases to $15 million per person starting in 2026, significantly reducing the complexity of succession planning for family businesses.

Whether you're a server earning tips, a parent raising children, a senior living on fixed income, or a business owner planning your legacy, OBBA contains provisions designed to put more money back in your pocket while demanding your tax dollars work harder and smarter.

Ready to learn how these changes impact your unique financial situation? Contact our team at Farrall Wealth to customize these powerful new tools to your unique financial goals.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

The college sports landscape has undergone a complete revolution, and Greg Farrall takes listeners behind the scenes of how the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era is transforming opportunities for athletes across America.

Drawing from his personal experience as a former All-Big Ten defensive end at Indiana University, Greg vividly contrasts today's college athletes with his own playing days when he was "stone cold broke" without the ability to profit from his athletic achievements. This perspective makes his insights particularly valuable as he breaks down the complex world of NIL into understandable components.

Greg provides a comprehensive explanation of the two primary ways college athletes now benefit financially: through individual brand endorsements and university-affiliated donor consortiums. He walks listeners through the landmark legal battles that ultimately forced the NCAA to abandon its amateurism model, from Ed O'Bannon's 2009 lawsuit through the game-changing 2021 Supreme Court ruling that opened the floodgates to the current system.

The discussion explores how NIL deals vary dramatically - from superstars earning millions through major brand partnerships to lesser-known athletes making modest sums from local businesses. Greg also examines the challenges of this new landscape, including uneven state regulations, team dynamics when teammates earn vastly different amounts, and complications for international student-athletes with visa restrictions.

Looking toward the future, Greg analyzes the seismic $2.8 billion House v. NCAA settlement that will soon allow schools to directly compensate athletes, further blurring the line between collegiate and professional sports. His conclusion is unequivocal - NIL isn't just a policy change but a revolution that's here to stay, enabling athletes to take control of their financial futures in ways previously impossible.

Check out our sponsor, Farrall Wealth NIL's team, The Valparaiso University Alumni against Butler University Alumni in the TBT Hoops tournament on Fox Sports this Saturday, July 19th at 2 pm EST, and reach out to learn how we're helping college athletes navigate this new financial landscape! Email [email protected], and the office is 219-246-2516 or any socials. 

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.  

Jobs reports often move markets, but few understand exactly why. Today's "Goldilocks" employment number of 144,000 new jobs strikes the perfect balance - strong enough to show economic resilience but sufficient to keep September rate cut expectations alive. For wealth managers overseeing millions in client assets, these details matter greatly for portfolio positioning.

The market' s reaction tells the story: a modest gain into the holiday weekend, suggesting investor confidence in the economic outlook despite recent warning signs. After yesterday' s alarming negative ADP report, today' s government data offered reassurance that we' re maintaining the delicate balance between growth and policy support. With the S & P up roughly 5% year- to- date, we remain on track toward our projected 8-10% annual return goal.

Beyond market analysis, I shared my transformative experience graduating from Goldman Sachs' 10,000 Small Businesses program. Launched in 2009 after the financial crisis, this intensive 11-week curriculum provides comprehensive business education to established entrepreneurs ready for growth. Goldman Sachs has invested millions in this program, supporting education, services, and capital access through Community Development Financial Institutions. (CDFI's)

The curriculum, developed by Babson College (America' s top- ranked entrepreneurship school), guides participants through specialized modules covering financial analysis, leadership, operational efficiency, marketing strategy, and capital access. Each participant creates a detailed growth plan - mine focused on launching specialized wealth management services for student-athletes navigating NIL opportunities.

Small business owners generating at least $ 75, 75,000 annually with two or more employees should definitely consider applying at 10 ksb. com. The program yields impressive results: 72% of alumni increase their revenues within 18 months (compared to 53% of typical small businesses), and nearly half create new jobs within six months of graduation. Beyond statistics, you' ll gain strategic clarity, confidence, and access to a robust nationwide network of fellow entrepreneurs. #10ksb

As we celebrate America' s independence this weekend, I am reminded that understanding economic indicators and supporting small business growth are two sides of the same prosperity coin. Whether you' re an investor monitoring market signals or an entrepreneur seeking growth strategies, clarity and community are your most valuable assets.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may suit you, consult the appropriate qualified professional before deciding.