SKEPTIC’S GUIDE TO INVESTING

Skeptic’s Guide to Investing hosts Frazer Rice, the seasoned Director of Family Office Services at Next Capital Management and author of "Wealth, Actually”.   Fraser helps us explore complexities of wealth management. Peer into the holistic approach required to harmonize investments, cash flow, and estate planning with your personal values—a symphony of strategies tailored for everyone from the mass affluent to the ultra high net worth. Frazer shares his emphasis on the power of meaningful conversations with clients. We dissect the allure of private equity and hedge funds for personal portfolios and take a critical look at the role of active management in today's market dynamics. Through our dialogue with Frazer, we also tackle the art and science of portfolio construction, weighing the merits and challenges of various investment vehicles and the impact of fees on the bottom line.Finally, we tackle the intricate dance between tax planning, estate strategies, and family dynamics, where the technical intertwines with the personal. Our conversation sheds light on preparing for potential shifts in tax legislation and the nuances of preserving wealth across generations.   We leave you with a clearer vision of choosing a wealth management firm or family office that aligns with your financial aspirations, driven by transparency, comprehensive understanding, and a lifelong commitment to learning.Join us for this enlightening journey through the multifaceted terrain of wealth management, where clarity and strategy lead to financial security.  Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secret to smarter investment decisions as Steve Davenport and I celebrate the groundbreaking and Nobel-winning work of Daniel Kahneman, the father of behavioral investing.  We dissect the intricate dance of human biases and investment decision-making.   We bring Kahneman's legacy vividly to life,  as we delve into the ways in which his psychology-rooted insights—particularly regarding loss aversion—continue to mold our financial pursuits and quest for happiness.Picture this: your ancestors, primed for survival, have passed  down instincts that still dictate today's economic behaviors.  We navigate through these prehistoric impulses and their impact on our responses to modern crises, such as the recent pandemic.   We also consider how AI might play a future role in management of our economic behaviors. This episode is a compelling narrative that stitches together the fabric of our decision-making processes, from the stock market to retirement planning, revealing the often overlooked influence of behavioral economics on professional and retail investors alike.Ending on a note of self-reflection, we embrace the concept of a utility function for happiness..  This episode is not just a journey through the mechanics of wealth accumulation but a guide to aligning financial decisions with personal contentment. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secrets of gold as an investment with Steve Davenport and Clem Miller, as we venture beyond common misconceptions to reveal gold’s appropriate role.  From the possibility of gold being the ultimate protector of wealth during severe economic or geopolitical upheaval, to historical instances where governments have stepped in and seized private  gold holdings, we cover it all. Our conversation navigates the performance of gold versus stocks in various inflation scenarios, and we probe the motivations behind central banks and individual investors in buying and holding gold. This episode offers guidance incorporating this precious metal into your portfolio. We delve into the appeal of gold in nations such as India and China and dissect the advantages and potential pitfalls of gold ETFs. With a sharp focus on the strategic inclusion of gold in your asset allocation, we consider just how much gold you might want to hold in your portfolio. Join us, and let’s together  navigate the golden path between myth and solid investment strategy.  Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Discover pivotal lessons from the heart-rending bridge disaster in Baltimore as Clem Miller and Steve Davenport consider the urgent call to action it represents for infrastructure investment and maintenance. In the wake of this calamity, we delve into the development of essential systems such as harbors and examine the economic and safety consequences of neglecting such critical structures.  As we seek out potential solutions, our conversation serves as a homage to the lives lost and a stark reminder of the pressing need for strategic, proactive investment to safeguard our future.We survey the complex landscape of non-traditional infrastructure and real estate investments,  including public-private partnerships and companies with secondary real estate businesses.   Listen as Clem and Steve together the puzzle of how private investment can intersect with public infrastructure to foster not just growth, but a durable legacy of safety and innovation. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Prepare to navigate the complex waters of the 2024 elections with us . We're tackling the factors that are shaping the presidential race, including age, legal woes, persistent (though improved) inflation, and a booming stock market.  Our discussion zeroes in on the curious case of third-party candidate Robert Kennedy, who might just tip the scales in this election. Peeling back the layers, we examine historical instances where third-party candidates have left a mark on election outcomes, analyze how vaccine skepticism could affect voter turnout, and speculate on the potential repercussions of voter apathy. This episode promises to equip you with a fresh perspective on the upcoming electoral showdown.Amidst the anticipation of a Kennedy once again gracing the political stage, we dissect the mountainous challenges that independent candidates like Robert Kennedy must surmount within the rigid framework of the U.S. electoral system. Signature gathering hurdles loom large, but the strategic selection of a vice-presidential candidate with either political acumen or media allure could be a game-changer for his bid. Join us as we debate the resilience of the two-party system, the undercurrents within major parties, and how a robust third-party performance could reshape the political terrain. This episode isn't just about predictions; it's a panoramic view of the political landscape, capturing the spectrum of public sentiment from fervent expectation to weary indifference. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secrets of smart stock exits and options trading with the formidable expertise of Steve Davenport and his co-host Clem Miller. In a spirited exchange, we peel back the layers of using call options to gracefully bow out of stock positions, all while potentially padding your returns and softening the tax blow. Steve guides us on selecting the right options that go well with your target prices and volatility—especially when earnings announcements loom large on the horizon. We don't shy away from potential behavioral pitfalls either, such as the sting of watching a stock ascend after you've sold your options.   We offer advice on selling in increments to soothe any seller's remorse and smartly manage opportunity costs.As the conversation deepens, we wade into the complex world of volatility and its influence on options trading, where the numbers tell only half the story. Here, volatility is a dance of mathematics and personal risk appetites, played out against the backdrop of life's major financial goals.  As we wrap up, we scrutinize the tug-of-war between retail and institutional traders and dissect the tell-tale signs of an overvalued stock. For investors keen on refining their strategy and navigating the markets with finesse, this episode is an essential listen. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Netflix isn't just a streaming service; it's an empire. But how does it fare when thrown into the arena with Disney, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and the others? Clem and Steve tear apart the streaming service battlefield to reveal Netflix's tactics for maintaining its lead, boasting a mighty 260 million subscribers worldwide. We're not just talking numbers; we take you behind the scenes of Netflix's international content and marketing strategy—could this be the secret weapon that gives the platform its edge? Financially, Netflix has a strong net income margin and impressive free cash flow.  And it has impressive growth.  We hold back on the tough questions: Is Netflix's valuation a reflection of its worth, or is it an overpriced ticket to the investing show? Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Do you have a major cash outlay looming?   Do you want to stay invested in stocks but are concerned that, in the meantime, a large market drop will leave you with insufficient assets?  If so, passive investing may not be for you.   That's because passive investing mimics the ups-and-downs of a market index such as the S&P 500.  It provides no downside protection.  Instead, you might want to invest in a more defensive actively-managed portfolio.   This QuickTake offers some thoughts on the issue. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Discover the strategic moves to protect your investment portfolio with the insights of Steve Davenport, as we tackle the complexities of hedging in turbulent times. Amidst the cacophony of global conflicts and whispers of recession, this episode of Skeptics Guide to Investing becomes your beacon of clarity. Join us, as we reveal why liquidating assets isn't the only answer for investors bracing for a storm, especially those with taxable assets or those eyeing retirement without relinquishing hard-earned gains.Embark on a journey through the market's ebb and flow with us as we break down the use of put and call options—your financial 'umbrella' against unexpected downpours. While options may not be the go-to for every investor, understanding their purpose can be pivotal in times of market volatility. Steve's insights demystify market multiples, interest rates, and the economic indicators that might sway your hedging strategies.  Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Could your hard-earned money be doing more for you outside the banking sector? That's what Clem  and Steve dissect in an eye-opening chat about the investability of banks, especially given the recent tremors felt across financial institutions like Silicon Valley Bank and New York Commercial Bank. We're breaking down the recent bank failures that have sent ripples through the investment community, scrutinizing the resilience of regional bank stocks, and questioning the allure of banking investments in a market that's bursting with other opportunities. Join us as we peel back the layers of the banking industry's 'black box' with Clem's expert perspective. He brings to the table a wealth of experience and historical data that reveal a stark contrast between the performance of bank ETFs and the S&P 500, prompting us to consider the true value of bank stocks in our portfolios. As we navigate through the complexities of asset liability management, credit quality, and the often opaque inner workings of financial institutions, we unpack the lessons from Silicon Valley Bank's downfall and explore what it really means for the savvy investor seeking resilient and profitable ventures. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the future of tech and investment strategies with us, Steve Davenport and my co-host Clem Miller, as we dissect Microsoft's bold strides in the realms of generative AI, cloud computing, and the electrifying gaming industry. We lift the veil on the tech titan's alliance with OpenAI, dissecting how tools like Co-Pilot could transform everyday software suites. Delve into the complexities of AI regulation and its ripple effects across giants of the industry, courtesy of the EU's Digital Services Act. With Microsoft at the forefront, we examine the Intelligent Cloud, Azure's influence on corporate decisions, and even speculate on the enigmatic horizons of quantum computing. Stay on top of the industry's pulse as we navigate Microsoft's financial vitality and market valuation, focusing on its strategic conquests, like the acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which promises to redefine gaming within their ecosystem.Whether you're a well-versed investor or simply intrigued by the confluence of technology and finance, this dialogue promises a deeper comprehension of the ebb and flow shaping today's tech landscape. Make sure to join our community by hitting like, subscribing, and sharing our episode with those looking to navigate the areas of tech investments with confidence. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secrets behind NVIDIA's breathtaking ascent as we explore the company's grip on AI and GPU markets . With his deep insights, we navigate the powerhouse's role in gaming, crypto mining, and how its software, specifically CUDA, is at the forefront of AI development. Join us for a compelling dialogue on the driving forces behind NVIDIA's stock rally, and why this tech titan's narrative is one you can't afford to miss.This episode isn't just about NVIDIA's skyrocketing success; it's about positioning yourself within the tempestuous world of AI investing. Steve and Clem dissect NVIDIA's financial health, scrutinizing the sustainability of its growth. We discuss maintaining a diversified portfolio in an AI-hyped market and offer a perspective on NVIDIA's influence on your asset allocation within the tech sector. Whether you're an investor, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of AI, tune in for an episode packed with critical analysis and strategic insights. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the transformative power of GLP-1 based obesity drugs with your guides, Clem Miller and Steve Davenport, as we navigate their remarkable impact on healthcare and investment landscapes alike. Prepare to be enlightened on the dual benefits these treatments offer for diabetes and obesity, and the industry titans leading the charge—Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. We've dissected the science, sifted through financial forecasts, and even charted the course for potential investors looking to capitalize on this medical revolution. The conversation doesn't stop at the pharmacy counter; we delve into the complex web of obesity, genetics, and the monumental societal shifts these drugs could instigate. We also unpack the intricate dance between health and financial wellness, offering actionable insights for investing in pharmaceutical stalwarts and rising stars. Tune in and arm yourself with the acumen to navigate both the health advances reshaping our future and the financial opportunities they present. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Discover the intricate workings of a social media colossus as Clem Miller joins us to dissect Meta Platforms, the company soaring past a $1 trillion market cap. Our conversation takes you behind the scenes of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, revealing how these household names translate likes and shares into a torrent of advertising revenue. As election year fervor mounts and events like the Olympics are set to spike ad spending, we scrutinize Meta's position amidst this bustling marketplace and its adherence to new EU anti-disinformation laws—developments that could very well reshape their global operations, including in the US.Venture with us into the futuristic foray of Meta's ambitious metaverse initiative and the burgeoning role of generative artificial intelligence in advertising. Clem and I critically evaluate how these bold moves could impact Meta's revenue trajectory in 2024. With the spotlight on Mark Zuckerberg's vision, we consider whether this tech giant can maintain its momentum or face a slowdown as it expands into virtual reality. Whether you've got skin in the game as an investor or you're simply captivated by the relentless evolution of digital platforms, tune in for an enlightening chat that's as much about the numbers as it is about the narrative shaping our digital landscape. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secrets of financial wellness with us, Clem Miller and expert Steve Davenport, as we guide you through the must-knows of investment statement reviews for the year ahead. Imagine a world where you effortlessly finesse your asset allocation for both strong growth and steadfast safety. Together, we dissect the nuances of investment fees, shining a light on how they nibble away at your returns and why embracing low-cost index funds and ETFs could be your ticket to financial savvy. With our conversation, you'll become adept at steering through income streams and tax efficiency like a pro, ensuring you're not leaving money on the table when it comes to your investments.With Steve and Clem insights, we break down the complex tango between US and global investments, and how sectors like pharmaceuticals can add a layer of diversified growth to your portfolio. By the end of our discussion, you'll be equipped with a fortified strategy to withstand the ebbs and flows of market downturns and come out ahead, ready to delve further into the psychological plays of behavioral finance in our future talks. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Unlock the secrets to financial empowerment and get ready to transform your approach to money with our latest conversation featuring host Steve Davenport and Clem Miller.  We're breaking down the essentials: from the unparalleled power of compounding interest to the lifelong dividends of an investment in education, prepare to gear up your financial wellness journey. With our step-by-step guide, you'll learn how starting small can lead to big gains and why it's never too early to focus on retirement planning. It's time to start making your assets work tirelessly for you, and we've got the blueprint you'll need to make it happen.This episode is more than just finance; it's about fortifying your human capital in an ever-changing job market where adaptability reigns supreme. We weave through the importance of nurturing your body, mind, and spirit, and how this holistic approach can amplify your productivity and job satisfaction. Embrace the strategies that fuse personal and financial growth, aligning your life with your core values for optimal success. Join Clem Miller and Steve Davenport on this enlightening journey, and let's chart a course to your most secure and satisfying future. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Co-hosts Steve Davenport and Clem Miller explain why they don’t hold Tesla in their portfolios. They dissect the electric vehicle (EV) landscape to reveal the burgeoning competition Tesla faces from both American and European automakers with superior customer service and extensive sales networks.  They explore the hazards of relying on an enigmatic, eccentric personality such as Elon Musk, whose focus is divided among his multiple endeavors.   They scrutinize the expiration of tax subsidies on EVs and the consequent implications for EV consumer.  Also, they examine the significance of China's dual role as both a battleground for market share and a linchpin in the EV battery materials supply chain, presenting an angle often overlooked.  Finally, they look at how expensively valued Tesla’s stock is, even factoring in its probable growth prospects. By the episode's conclusion, listeners are armed with an understanding of Tesla that inspires both skepticism and critical thinking in their investment choices. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Prepare to navigate the murky waters of global investing risks with Clem Miller and Steve Davenport as we unveil the critical dangers that could redefine the financial landscape in 2024.  In particular we look at risks that others may not contemplate.   From an unforeseen biotech disaster to the tangible threat of AI gone awry, to   El Niño-driven African famine and migration, creating political instability in Europe, and others. We explore the potential for a Russian political collapse, with its potential implications for nuclear security and separatist movements.   We also look at China’a smoldering economic problems and their interplay with the Taiwan issue.  We don't shy away from the vulnerabilities at our doorstep, examining the pressures on the U.S. financial system, including the integration of cryptocurrencies and recent shake-ups in banking.  And, of course, the potential for U.S. election year chaos.  Join us for this crucial conversation and arm yourself with the foresight to invest wisely amidst the uncertainties of tomorrow. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Discover the pressing reasons behind one investor's decision to go underweight on Apple, the tech behemoth that dominates market conversations and the S&P 500. In an eye-opening discussion with our host Clem, we unravel the subtle indicators of Apple's wavering market grip. Join us as we peel back the layers of this financial conundrum, offering a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo of investment strategies. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com

Discover the pressing reasons behind one investor's decision to go underweight on Apple, the tech behemoth that dominates market conversations and the S&P 500. In an eye-opening discussion with our host Clem, we unravel the subtle indicators of Apple's wavering market grip. Join us as we peel back the layers of this financial conundrum, offering a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo of investment strategies.This episode is a treasure trove for those who seek to understand the intricate dance between consumer behavior, technological innovation, and market influence. Clem, with a mere 1.8% stake in his portfolio, brings to light Apple's stagnating revenue and earnings growth, and the lukewarm reception of the iPhone 15. We scrutinize the formidable headwinds Apple faces in the Chinese market, including the stunning advancements of Huawei and the government's tightening restrictions. For investors and tech enthusiasts seeking a skeptic's insight into the future of this industry titan, this conversation is an essential listen. Straight Talk for All - Nonsense for NonePlease check out our other podcasts:https://skepticsguidetoinvesting.buzzsprout.com