What happens to the substantial cash value of my life insurance policy if I choose to convert to a new one with a smaller death benefit? With the recent wild cards, like taxes and inflation, is a million dollars enough to keep us afloat in our 70s? And is it advantageous for big box retailers to shrink the size of their stores and offer more amenities? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

We’re back with financial advisor, Brad Starken, our go-to resident authority on digital assets and cryptocurrency, discussing the latest trends, key insights, and what’s happening with the hot button item in crypto world; Bitcoin.

Retire SMART continues to make strides in 2024 by making the top 52 RIAs to work for list this year! In other news, things are beginning to “melt up” as Americans spend at least $73 Billion more in December than any other month, and according to the Federal Reserve, household optimism has practically doubled.

David brings to light the issue of how the IRS wants to prep your tax return. He also pays homage to a dear friend and legend, Art Cashin, New York Stock Exchange fixture for decades, who just recently passed away.

What is the predictable outlook on consumer spending this Holiday season? What financial strategies does Retire SMART offer that other advisory firms may not? And how can I go about rolling my work 401(k) into an IRA? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Back in the guest seat, Chief Tax Planning Officer, Evan Marshall, joins David in the studio to talk potential outcomes for what taxes may look like under the coming Trump presidency.  Plus, Evan shares on how he saved a local business owner over $200,000 in taxes!

Donald J. Trump is stirring up changes and has yet to even step into office! Talks of more tariffs with the “BRICS” nations, who are trying to supplant the dollar as a world reserve currency.  Also, why more Americans are moving south, and not because of the weather.  David gives insight to these headlines.

At first, it seemed that Bitcoin was going to be hot for a season and gone the next, but the cryptocurrency has yet to show signs of burnout.  In fact, with the recent surges, the IRS is watching even closer and may be expecting tax revenues in the future. Here is David Brook’s take on the latest crypto-news.

Did the recent Microsoft outage have any impact on the financial markets? Do I need to make any “year-end-planning” changes with 2025 just around the corner? And what questions should I ask when interviewing potential advisors? David Brooks has answers to these questions in today’s Q&A episode.

Did you know that taxes on social security is the largest tax paid by the majority of Americans? Today we invite financial advisor, Sean Swanson, back into the guest seat to talk with David on social security hot topics.