More for Your Money

This special episode of More for Your Money features host John Berkley and Medicare Specialist Dave Bomkamp, focusing on the critical open enrollment period. They stress that listeners must "do your homework" to mitigate financial risk and navigate the "minefields" of available options.

Special Guest: Dave Bomkamp.

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.

Special Guest: James A. Burns, PhD.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.