Iron Gate Financial Radio

Hello Friends! In our final wrap-up of 2025, we’re cutting through the noise of the AI market. While the big names are seeing a healthy correction, the speculative "no revenue" bubble is starting to hiss. At Iron Gate, we aren't chasing the hype—we're following the legends. The Big AI Takeaway •The Correction is Here: Major players like Nvidia and Meta have pulled back 10-15%. •Speculative Stocks are Sliding: Companies with "concepts" but zero revenue, like Oklo, have dropped over 50%. •Our Strategy: We’re patient. We’d rather miss the first third of a rally to ensure we're buying a fundamentally sound business. Investing Like a Legend We’re sticking to two core principles inspired by Joel Greenblatt and Charlie Munger: •Rule #1: Know the Value. Figure out what a business is worth and buy it for significantly less. •Rule #2: Don't Be a Fool. It’s hard to be a genius, but it’s easy to not be a fool. Avoid emotional traps like envy and FOMO. Your Financial "No-Nonsense" Checklist To secure your future, Spencer recommends these three pillars: 1. Live Within Your Means: If you spend more than you make, stop. 2. Pay Yourself First: Automate your savings before the bills hit. 3. The Emergency Fund: Keep 3-6 months of cash in a high-yield account for those inevitable rainy days. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! We'll see you in 2026.

Everyone’s asking the same question right now: Are we in an AI bubble – and is it about to pop? In this episode, we unpack the recent market sell-off, sky-high valuations, and the growing chorus of “this time feels different” warnings. We separate real risks from media noise and look at what actually drives today’s volatility. Then we flip the script: • Why accelerated computing and agentic AI are structural, not speculative • How today’s spend compares to dot-com era (spoiler: it’s very different) • What history tells us about surviving – and profiting from – tech revolutions If you’re trying to decide whether AI is the next dot-com bust or the start of a multi-decade transformation, this episode gives you the clarity you need to invest with conviction. Here's to wise investing, Brett, Brian, and Mike

In our latest episode, we’re talking about the government shutdown — what it means for the economy, the markets, and your financial plan. Yes, this shutdown is causing some short-term pain for federal workers, contractors, and parts of the economy. It may even bring some market volatility in the near term. But here’s what’s important to remember: there are no knowable structural problems in the market today that suggest a bear market is forming. In times like these, the key is to stay focused on your long-term plan. Volatility isn’t something to fear — it’s an opportunity. Long-term investors who remain disciplined and take advantage of temporary declines are the ones who build lasting wealth. Listen now to hear how we’re navigating this environment and why patience, perspective, and planning remain your best financial assets. Here’s to wise investing, Brian, Mike, & Brett

The stock market just keeps climbing — but have we gone too far? In this episode, we dig into whether today’s valuations are signaling opportunity or the makings of another bubble, especially in the world of AI. We’ll also explore why paying close attention to the CEO behind the company might be one of the most overlooked (and most important) factors in long-term investing. Finally, we break down the three tailwinds currently fueling the market: 1. Falling interest rates 2. Potential tax cuts becoming permanent 3. A wave of deregulation It’s a conversation that blends discipline, optimism, and realism — giving you clarity in a market that’s anything but simple. Here's to wise investing, The Iron Gate Global Team

No one knows how long this rally will last — but history shows that the best returns come to those who lean into value, not emotions. Chasing what feels “safe” often leads to buying high and selling low. The real edge comes from staying disciplined when headlines and emotions are screaming the opposite. Here’s what we cover in this episode: • Why your brain interprets up-markets and down-markets backwards — and how that instinct can quietly sabotage long-term results. • How price and value diverge during volatility — and why falling prices often mean growing opportunity. • The mindset shift that turns falling markets into opportunity — practical ways to reframe risk so you can act rationally when it matters most. • Lessons from history — what past market cycles can teach us about the link between discipline, patience, and wealth building. As always, thank you for listening, learning, and trusting us with your financial journey. Here's to wise investing, The Iron Gate Global Team

In this round-robin style episode, we tackle some of the hottest questions in finance today: - Bull or Bear? We kick things off with the question everyone’s asking: “What’s the market going to do?” Our take on where overall returns could be headed. - Tariffs Are Back and they are BIG. $87 billion collected this year — and projections hit $300 billion for 2025. Is this a smart economic lever or a drag on growth? - Interest Rates & Trump vs. Powell. Everyone’s wondering when the Fed will pivot. We explore the timeline — and the political subplot playing out behind the scenes. - BBB Breakdown. While the Big Beautiful Bill covers many social issues, we ignore those and focus on the economic. We each discuss one thing that we like about the bill that can help spur the market and economy. Fast-paced, opinionated, and full of insights — this episode is a must-listen for investors trying to make sense of it all. Here's to wise investing, Brett, Brian, and Spencer

In 1979, the Los Angeles Lakers were purchased for just $67 million. Today, they’re reportedly worth $10 billion. That’s an incredible return—but how does it compare to a simple investment in the S&P 500 over the same period? We dig into the numbers and break down what makes public equities one of the most unbeatable long-term investments. Also in this episode: - What really drives massive returns over decades. - Why Steve Ballmer—yes, the former Microsoft CEO—is being called one of the greatest investors of all time. - The surprisingly simple principle behind his investing success (and how you can apply it). Here's to wise investing, Brett Pattison, Brian Hunsaker, and Spencer Nelson

One of the most powerful and consistent forces pushing stock prices higher over time isn’t just earnings or interest rates — it’s human ingenuity. From the invention of the wheel in 3500 BC, to Gutenberg’s printing press in 1440, to Space Travel in 1969, and now the rise of Artificial Intelligence, innovation has been the engine of progress. And nowhere is the impact of innovation more directly reflected than in the stock market. Unlike real estate, bonds, or Treasuries, which often lag behind in capturing the upside of breakthrough ideas, stocks give investors a front-row seat to benefit from human creativity and technological advancement — especially in the innovation-rich landscape of America. In this episode, we look back at some of history’s greatest breakthroughs and look forward to how emerging technologies could shape not just the world — but your portfolio. Tune in and learn how to align your investments with the most powerful force on Earth: the endless spark of human ingenuity. Here's to wise investing, Brett Pattison & Brian Hunsaker

This week, Brian and Brett dive deep into the rising tension around tariffs and the ripple effects they’re having on the markets. With volatility back in the headlines, we break down what the best businesses in the world are doing during uncertain times—and what you should be thinking about as an investor. We also discuss a critical question: Do you really understand what it means to be an investor in the stock market? And finally, the debate heats up: Is Trump’s economic plan a precision scalpel… or a blunt sledgehammer? Brian and Brett don’t exactly see eye to eye. Here’s to wise investing, Brett Pattison & Brian Hunsaker

The market is dropping at a pace we haven’t seen since the Covid crash—and it’s raising big questions for investors. So, what are we doing in response? Could it get even worse? And most importantly, how can we turn this into an opportunity? In this special episode, we tackle all of that and more. It’s one you won’t want to miss. Here’s to wise investing, Brett, Brian, and Spencer Iron Gate Global Advisors is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Iron Gate Global Advisors and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt form licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Iron Gate Global Advisors unless a client service agreement is in place.

Fear is gripping the markets. A key fear gauge we track has just hit its highest level since 2022—when stocks were in a full-blown bear market. With uncertainty on the rise, how should investors respond? In today’s episode, we break it all down: - Trump’s tariffs – Should investors be worried, or is the fear overblown? - A buying opportunity? Fear often creates opportunity—but is now the right time to buy? We share the key indicator we use to gauge market entry points. - Why tariffs aren’t all bad – The long-term economic and market impacts that most investors overlook. - Buffett’s annual letter – Why it’s a must-read for every investor and the biggest takeaways from this year’s edition. With fear at extreme levels, smart investors know where to look. Tune in for insights that cut through the noise and help you navigate uncertainty. Here’s to wise investing, Brett Pattison and Brian Hunsaker

In this episode, we take a deep dive into why President Trump is doubling down on tariffs and what it means for the markets and investors. While tariffs often spark short-term volatility, they are part of a much bigger strategy to protect U.S. national security and stop unfair global trade practices. We break down: - Why Trump is implementing tariffs. - How tariffs aim to level the playing field in a world where the U.S. has been taken advantage of for decades. - China's trade tactics - from currency manipulation to hidden subsidies - and how tariffs are a tool to fight back. - The market's reaction: short-term noise vs. long-term opportunity - What truly matters for investors - why great businesses win over time, regardless of trade policy shifts. We also break down the master plan that President Trump has for the country that really is no different than your individual strategy for investing. We hope it provides clarity on a confusing topic. Here's to wise investing, Brett Pattison & Brian Hunsaker Iron Gate Global Advisors is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Iron Gate Global Advisors and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt form licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Iron Gate Global Advisors unless a client service agreement is in place.

In this episode, we dive into the standout stories of the financial markets in 2024 and set the stage for what lies ahead in 2025. Here’s what you’ll hear: 2024 Market Recap: We break down the surprisingly strong 20% plus returns of the S&P 500, reflecting on how they exceeded expectations and what drove this outperformance. The “Magnificent 7”: We take a deep dive into the tech giants that dominated the market. These 7 companies currently comprise 33% of the S&P 500. Is this kind of market concentration good or bad or is it a bubble waiting to burst? 2025 Market Preview: We outline the three biggest risks for investors in the year ahead: 1. Higher bond yields and their implications. 2. Continued market concentration and its potential impact. 3. Policy shifts under the Trump administration and their influence on markets. Big Themes for 2025: Lastly, we discuss what we believe are the biggest themes for 2025. The AI revolution takes center stage as we explore its transformative effects on corporate earnings and broader economic trends. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just curious about the markets, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate the evolving financial landscape. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on where we’ve been and where we’re headed! Here’s to wise investing, Brett Pattison & Brian Hunsaker *All investing is subject to market risk, including the loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results and there is no guarantee any investment strategy will achieve its objectives.

As the year comes to a close, it’s time to take control of your financial planning and make the most of the opportunities available before 2025 arrives. In this episode, we’re diving into five essential end-of-year strategies to help streamline your investments, optimize taxes, and plan for a financially sound future. We’ll define and weigh the pros and cons of: 1. Backdoor Roth Conversions 2. Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) Accounts 3. Donating Appreciated Stocks 4. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) 5. Key Considerations for 1099 Employees Whether you’re preparing for retirement, looking to maximize your charitable giving, or navigating self-employment as a 1099 worker, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Pair this advice with guidance from your CPA, and you’ll be ready to wrap up 2024 with confidence. Here’s to wise planning and a prosperous new year! Brett Pattison and Spencer Nelson *All investing is subject to market risk, including the loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will achieve its objectives. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This podcast is for general and educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, tax, securities or investment advice regarding any particular fund, strategy or security or a recommended course of action in any given situation. All opinions and views constitute our judgments as of the date of writing and are subject to change at any time without notice. Opinions contained herein should not be interpreted as a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. The S&P 500 Index or the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of the 500 largest U.S. publicly traded companies. The S&P 500 is a float-weighted index, meaning company market capitalizations are adjusted by the number of shares available for public trading. Note: Investors cannot invest directly in an index. These unmanaged indices do not reflect management fees and transaction costs that are associated with most investments.

The election is finally over—hooray! The political ads are gone, and the results are in: a red wave swept the Republicans into control of the White House, the Senate, and Congress.   But what does this mean for your investments? Is this political shift a blessing or a curse for the economy? And why does Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, still sit on an eye-popping $325 billion in cash?   In this episode, we dive into these pressing questions and more. We'll explore the election's impact on the markets, discuss Buffett’s legendary cash hoard, and most importantly, uncover the greatest risk facing our country today—and why addressing it is critical for our financial future.   Whether you lean left or right politically, this podcast is designed to give you clear, actionable insights that help you focus on what truly matters: building and protecting your wealth. Here's to wise investing and a bright future, Brett Pattison and Brian Hunsaker *All investing is subject to market risk, including the loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will achieve its objectives. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This podcast is for general and educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, tax, securities or investment advice regarding any particular fund, strategy or security or a recommended course of action in any given situation. All opinions and views constitute our judgments as of the date of writing and are subject to change at any time without notice. Opinions contained herein should not be interpreted as a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. The S&P 500 Index or the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of the 500 largest U.S. publicly traded companies. The S&P 500 is a float-weighted index, meaning company market capitalizations are adjusted by the number of shares available for public trading. Note: Investors cannot invest directly in an index. These unmanaged indices do not reflect management fees and transaction costs that are associated with most investments.

The election is here and the rhetoric from both sides is louder than ever. In this episode, we cut through the noise and fear-mongering to bring you the insights you truly need. While there’s much we can’t predict about next week, there are key factors we do know—factors that could make a real difference for your financial future. Join Brian, Brett, and Spencer as they share their expert insights, make predictions, and reveal their strategic plan to help you navigate the election’s impact and keep compounding your wealth. Buckle up—this episode is essential listening for any investor facing the uncertainty of election season. Here's to wise investing, Brett, Brian, and Spencer *All investing is subject to market risk, including the loss of principal.  Past performance is not a guarantee of future results and there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will achieve its objectives.  It is not possible to invest directly in an index. This podcast is for general and educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, tax, securities or investment advice regarding any particular fund, strategy or security or a recommended course of action in any given situation. All opinions and views constitute our judgments as of the date of writing and are subject to change at any time without notice. Opinions contained herein should not be interpreted as a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. The S&P 500 Index or the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of the 500 largest U.S. publicly traded companies. The S&P 500 is a float-weighted index, meaning company market capitalizations are adjusted by the number of shares available for public trading. Note: Investors cannot invest directly in an index. These unmanaged indices do not reflect management fees and transaction costs that are associated with most investments.

The S&P 500 has reached unprecedented heights, achieving 30 all-time highs in 2024. But with the ongoing bull market, interest rate cuts from the Fed, and an impending election, should investors consider securing their profits? In today's podcast, we draw valuable insights from the timeless classic, "Reminiscences of a Stock Operator," the biography of Jesse Livermore, a legendary investor known for his spectacular successes and catastrophic failures. As we reflect on Jesse's remarkable journey, our Chairman, Brian, shares key takeaways. Using Jesse's experiences as a backdrop, we tackle crucial questions: - Can taking profits lead to financial ruin? - How should investors respond to the Fed's rate cuts: focus on overseas markets or small-cap companies? - What's behind Brian's unflappable calm in the face of market volatility? Here's to wise investing, Brett Pattison and Brian Hunsaker

What a year for the precious metal gold! It’s returns, year-to-date, are almost double the S&P 500. With the coming apocalypse, is now the time to buy that shiny precious metal? Speaking of the apocalypse, I hear it’s coming. If you ask people on the far left, a Trump presidency will cause it. If you ask people on the far right, a Kamala presidency will cause it. So apparently it's coming no matter what. In this episode, we discuss how this coming apocalypse impacts your portfolio. We also hit on gold and of course, football (because it’s that time of year). We hope you enjoy it. Here’s to wise investing, Brett Pattison and Brian Hunsaker

The NFL just signed off on allowing Private Equity firms to invest in up to 10% of a team. Why did the NFL owners agree to this? They want liquidity. They want cash. Their asset, an NFL team, is illiquid. Liquidity is one of the most undervalued characteristics in any investment. In today’s podcast, Spencer and Brett discuss the importance of liquidity when investing. They dissect private equity, venture capital, and real estate as asset classes and why they may not be the best investment if people want cash. They also dive into the importance of investing with a “fiduciary”, someone that has your best interests in mind when helping you build your wealth. Here’s to wise investing,  Brett Pattison and Spencer Nelson

The average return for the stock market since 1928 is 9.85%. In those 95 years, how many times do you think the market has ended the year between 8% and 12%? In today's podcast, we discuss how everyone's expectations of the market are often incorrect. (In fact, if you have any expectations, it's best to discard them altogether!) The stock market has experienced more years with returns over 30% than years with returns between 8% and 12%. We also discuss how the Iron Gate process helps us stay disciplined in both good and bad years. As investors, it's essential to sift through the noise and remain focused on building wealth. Let go of those expectations! We hope today's discussion helps you evaluate your past returns and look forward to future returns. Here's to wise investing, Spencer Nelson and Brett Pattison