Rising mortgage rejection rates, foreclosure spikes, and growing consumer debt—are we heading for another financial crisis? Today, we unpack the latest data on mortgage rejections, credit struggles, and what it all means for homeowners and the economy. Here is David’s take on the warning signs and what to watch for next.

Gold imports have surged in an unprecedented spike, raising serious questions about the state of the gold market. Is there enough physical gold to back up investment funds, or is something else at play?  Plus, we uncover shocking details about federal employee credit card spending and the push for greater government transparency. Stay tuned for David’s unpacking of these financial mysteries!

What are “cost basis points,” and how do they work? Can increased national economic growth be a method of reducing national debt? And is a portfolio of dividend-paying investments, in order to stay ahead of inflation, a good investment strategy? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Back in the studio, Michael Luna joins us to discuss Smart Spend Down Solutions and how his company, Senior Asset Solutions, helps families protect their assets from unnecessary long-term care costs. Learn how Medicaid planning strategies can safeguard financial legacies while ensuring quality care. Plus, details on an upcoming class to educate families on these vital strategies.

Markets are making headlines as volatility shakes investors. With the Dow tumbling nearly 900 points and recession fears on the rise, what’s really happening beneath the surface? Join us as we break down the noise, analyze key economic indicators, and explore strategies to navigate uncertainty.

David unpacks the current stock market trends, focusing on the overvaluation of large-cap stocks and the potential correction on the horizon. Plus, the impact of these shifts on investments, from tech stocks like NVIDIA to the broader market dynamics. In other news, what’s happening with Domino’s Pizza that’s peaked David’s interest?

Should excess dollars rescued by DOGE be given to taxpayers or used to reduce the national debt? What is the 1–3-year outlook for cryptocurrencies, gold, silver, and other rare metals? And will no tax on social security be enacted in 2025? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Welcome to the studio our new guest, financial advisor Tim Herrick! Tim is a U.S. Air Force veteran with experience in government agencies and defense contracting and now leads a class offering guidance to federal employees who may not be aware of all their benefits or how to manage them. He stresses the need for personalized advice to optimize retirement planning, reduce stress, and improve the financial future of federal employees.

It’s a day of celebration for Retire SMART as we look back on the recent grand opening of our Lincoln office and the exciting turnout from team members, community leaders, and special guests. We also discuss key economic updates, including job reports, housing market trends, and the latest political developments. Plus, we break down the implications of America's increasing influence in the Panama Canal and what it means for global trade. 

Today, we look into the latest investor fraud schemes spreading across social media; David breaks down the classic pump-and-dump scam and why investors need to stay vigilant. Plus, we shift gears to the state of the market, covering the latest consumer confidence drop, job cuts, and what’s keeping David Brooks up at night!