We open the year with some wins and some losses; David celebrates the recent bowl victory for the Corn Huskers, while taking time to reflect on the memory of the late former president, Jimmy Carter. In the world of economics, David breaks down the latest updates with Corporate Insider Buying and the S&P 500.

If social security collapses, but we still have 1 million left in our accounts, are we in good shape for retirement? If my mom, being a homemaker, never generated social security income, will she not receive social security after dad passes? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

David reveals multiple points of data, ranging from price-to-book valuations, understanding the red-flag that is rapidly increasing inventory of new homes, and what the U.S. can take away from the current bond yield in China.

The outlook for certain major iconic brands is rather gloomy; Big Lots is starting “going out of business sales” at its remaining locations. Also, according to David Brooks, even though optimism is on the rise with new leadership taking the helm of the U.S, there is some pain to be had in the manufacturing and services sectors, particularly with cutting hours and layoffs.

Happy New Year from Retire SMART! Today, David gives a brief overview of the economic highlights and takeaways of 2024, while also giving an optimistic outlook for 2025.

An Old Omaha commercial building is being revamped into residential quarters in downtown Omaha. Plus, a digital currency that may just be "full of air."

Is it advantageous to still use a ROTH IRA, even though my contributions are taxed? Also an ex-employee from Open AI becomes a whistleblower and is found dead shortly after; was this a suicide or is there a conspiracy brewing? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today's Q&A episode.

Bitcoin proxy micro strategy to join the Nasdaq 100, death and retirement tax changes could add $723B in revenue over 10 years, and Gen Z’ers returning to the mall.

Merry Christmas from Retire SMART! Join in on the discussion between David Brooks and Bart Wilkins, lead pastor of Flatland Church, of what the true meaning and origin of Christmas is.

David breaks down each generations perspective on what it means to be financially successful, and responds to Warren Buffett’s suggestion for all parents, as stated in a 2024 Thanksgiving letter titled “My Dad did the same with me.”