The resiliency of U.S. economics, steady consumer spending across all income levels, underestimated impacts of a gig economy, and the surprising durability of GDP growth are all part of today’s essential discussion. Wes Moss and Jeff Lloyd examine which factors suggest productivity might be undercounted and liken AI to the space race, where any type of participation drives long-term innovation. Listen to discover how these elements could shape the economic landscape for retirees and beyond.

On this week’s Money Matters, Wes Moss and co-host Jeff Lloyd break down the biggest financial stories shaping 2025. From what the Fed’s next move on interest rates means for your wallet to how tariffs and inflation are impacting markets. Wes also shares big news about Social Security changes that could give retirees with pensions a much-needed boost. Plus, they dive into bonds, Bitcoin, and what really makes an asset worth investing in.

Wes Moss and Clark.com’s Christa DiBiase team up to highlight the top 10 financial trends investors should watch in 2025, including economic resilience, consumer spending strength, and rising productivity.

In the second hour, Wes partners with co-host Jeff Lloyd to explore market momentum, the importance of dividends, and savvy retirement strategies. The episode concludes with an inspiring story of a happy retiree using careful financial planning to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime College Football Playoff experience.

On today’s episode of Money Matters, Wes dives into the top ten trends that he anticipates will define 2025 for investors, starting with resilience in the markets and economy, the dominance of the consumer, and a surge in productivity fueled by emerging technologies like AI. Producer and co-host Jeff Lloyd analyzes what these trends mean for investors, covering everything from the bull market's potential, dividend contributions, and tariff impacts to Washington's influence on market stability.

Money Matters co-host and producer Jeff Lloyd joins Wes in the studio. Wes instills the top 10 happy retiree lessons he’s learned from his guests while hosting the Retire Sooner podcast.

Whether you’re 25 or nearing retirement age, you’ll learn something new about how to maximize social security and plan for the future in today’s show. Wes introduces you to Mary Beth Franklin, one of the country’s leading specialists on social security and Medicare and a popular guest on Wes’s Retire Sooner podcast. In this conversation, Mary Beth answers questions such as, why do you think Social Security has become so confusing and difficult for so many people to make sense of as they get ready to retire? What are some actionable steps to take right now to prepare for or maximize their social security? And what you need to know when it comes to spouses and social security.

During this episode, Wes shares details from his new book, What The Happiest Retirees Know: 10 Habits for a Healthy, Secure, and Joyful Life. He also explains how he collected his research and studies for the book, why he studies happy and unhappy retirees, and what we can learn from happy retirees. He gives additional insights into the habits of the happiest retirees, how to discover your core pursuits, and shares a personal story about a friend’s emotional struggle without work.

On today’s episode of Money Matters, Wes is joined by co-host and producer Jeff Lloyd. Wes exalts his alma mater, the University of North Carolina, for hiring Bill Belichick. That leads them to discuss the rising salaries of college coaches and the rapid growth of NIL money for athletes. Next, they review the latest market trends, including a new all-time high for the NASDAQ. They delve into the most recent inflation update, including its specific consequences, and search for ways to hedge the gap between wage growth and rising costs. Will the Fed continue to cut interest rates?

Producer and Co-host Jeff Lloyd joins Wes in the studio on today’s episode. They dig into smart financial habits such as avoiding impulsive decisions and staying disciplined in investing. They examine the importance of resisting unnecessary purchases, practicing patience with investments, and avoiding the trap of "FOMO Freddy"—chasing past winners in the market. They discuss the concern about tariffs, the tense situations in France and South Korea, Cyber Monday, and even Jim Cramer’s comical quote about pizza. Finally, they point out the historical productivity of long-term planning, diversification, and focusing on consistent strategies to achieve sustainable growth rather than reacting to short-term trends or emotional pressures.

In today’s episode of Money Matters, Wes is joined by Edd and Cynthia Staton. Their retirement plans were disrupted by the 2008 Financial Crisis, leading them to create a Plan B. In 2010, they moved to Cuenca, Ecuador, where they enjoy a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. Their experience reflects a broader trend: the number of retirees receiving Social Security outside the U.S. surged 40% between 2007 and 2017. Now seen as experts in expat retirement, the Statons have authored best-selling books, featured in major media, and run an online program called Retirement Reimagined!