Odds are high that we see a global recession this year, but don't model for 2008.  This one is likely to be the most benign in history.

Now that the SECURE Act has passed, changes are upon us and we need to change our thinking correspondingly.  In today's podcast, Senior Financial Planner Greg Smith gives you Five Big Ideas you can start considering today, as it relates to your financial and estate planning, IRAs, and people you love the most. 

Simon talks about various forms of risk - not necessarily investment risks, but the risks of misguided investor behavior and thinking. He then brings on a research analyst, Vasilios Rajendra, to provide the rationale for the latest addition to the WIG portfolio. He and Simon also refresh the buy thesis on DIS, LHX, and GOOGL after their quarterly reports.

Simon briefly comments on why the markets stabilized this week, but spends most of the podcast challenging the popular narrative that current market conditions are similar to those seen in late 1999, near the peak of the Tech Bubble.  He identifies five reasons why conditions are different today.

Simon discusses the current market volatility fueled by the spread of the coronavirus. While the impacts may or should ultimately prove transient, there is plenty of internal market upheaval in the meantime. He talks about striking the proper balance between owning cheap economically-sensitive names and some more defensive stocks trading at loftier valuations. He also invites in analyst, Vasilios Rajendra, to discuss the recent results and buy cases for AAPL, BWA, DHR, and NOC. 

Ann drills down on the changes brought about by the new SECURE act including new IRA distribution rules and the elimination of the Stretch IRA.

While WIG still maintains a relatively optimistic outlook for 2020, Simon reflects on what could go wrong for the equity markets. He notes how it will be important to distinguish between transient risks and those with a lasting impact. He identifies some potential candidates for both. He also reviews the Buy case for C and why Japan may be an attractive market to consider.

Looking back on 2019, Chase reflects on a big market signal from 6 months ago that was historically an 18-month trigger or next year's inauguration day. Also, results from the last quarter may trigger some short term selloffs. These two stocks could be bought into weakness.

The conditions are right for the stock market rally to keep going, but the stage is set for a stumble if we miss a beat. However, there's been a stronger rally going on overseas, and it's better positioned to continue. Also, a new company for us to consider on the show.

Renting and buying largely depends on your stage of life. For many young professionals and retirees, renting might make the most sense. In this episode, David shares some other things to consider before making the move.