Episodes

  • (Bonus) From On Investing: 2025 Market Outlook, Part 1
    Dec 16 2024
    After you listenFollow the hosts on social media:Kathy Jones on X and LinkedIn.Liz Ann Sonders on X and LinkedIn.After another year of the bull market, what's in store for stocks in 2025? In this year-end episode, Schwab experts look ahead to consider what investors might expect from the markets in the new year.First, Liz Ann Sonders, Schwab's chief investment strategist, speaks with senior investment strategist Kevin Gordon. Liz Ann and Kevin discuss their perspective on the direction of the U.S. economy and stock market. She and Kevin cover tariffs, immigration, and potential policy changes, among other topics. Uncertainty remains a major theme.Next, Kathy Jones, Schwab's chief fixed income strategist interviews Jeffrey Kleintop—Schwab's chief global investment strategist. He analyzes and explains what 2025 might hold for the global economy and markets.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting.If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresInvestors should consider carefully information contained in the prospectus, or if available, the summary prospectus, including investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. You can request a prospectus by calling 800-435-4000. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.Digital currencies such as bitcoin are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal-tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view digital currencies as a purely speculative instrument.International investments involve additional risks, which include differences in financial accounting standards, currency fluctuations, geopolitical risk, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses, and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see schwab.com/indexdefinitions.BLOOMBERG® is a trademark and service mark of Bloomberg Finance L.P. and its affiliates (collectively "Bloomberg"). Bloomberg or Bloomberg's licensors own all proprietary rights in the Bloomberg Indices. Neither Bloomberg nor Bloomberg's licensors approves or endorses this material or guarantees the accuracy or completeness of any information herein, or makes any warranty, express or implied, as to the results to be obtained therefrom and, to the maximum extent allowed by law, neither shall have any liability or responsibility for injury or damages arising in connection therewith.Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(1224-BM0F)
    Show more Show less
    35 mins
  • What Year-End Tax Strategies Should You Consider for 2024?
    Dec 9 2024

    After you listen:

    • Check out the 2024 tax rates and brackets.
    • Learn more about donor-advised funds.
    • Explore more tax-planning content.

    Mark Riepe breaks down important 2024 tax updates, covering changes to income tax brackets, standard deductions, and retirement contribution limits. He shares actionable year-end tax strategies to help you maximize savings, including tips on retirement account contributions, HSAs, and charitable donations. Plus, Mark provides key questions to ask yourself as you plan for the year ahead, ensuring you're making the most of every opportunity to reduce your tax liability and boost your financial efficiency.

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

    Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

    Important Disclosures

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

    This general information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal, or investment planning advice and is not intended to be construed as tax advice. This information cannot be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code or applicable state or local tax law provisions. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, Schwab recommends consulting with a qualified tax professional, CPA, financial planner, or investment manager.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    (1224-A62X)

    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • (Bonus) How Can Gratitude Improve Your Life?
    Nov 25 2024

    After you listen:

    • Listen to the Choiceology podcast, hosted by Katy Milkman.
    • Read the article "Charitable Donations: The Basics of Giving."
    • Read the article "12 Tax-Smart Charitable Giving Tips for 2024."

    In this special episode of Financial Decoder, the team explores the theme of gratitude through personal stories, scientific insights, and reflections on holiday traditions. The conversation highlights the emotional and psychological benefits of gratitude, emphasizing its role in enhancing well-being and fostering positive relationships. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences of gratitude and consider how it can impact their lives, especially during the holiday season.

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

    Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

    Important Disclosures

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    (1124-82A5)

    Show more Show less
    22 mins
  • A Holistic Approach: Do You Need a Wealth Advisor?
    Nov 11 2024
    After you listen:Watch the video version of this episode on the Charles Schwab YouTube Channel.Visit the Schwab Wealth Advisory site to learn more about Schwab's approach to wealth management.Discover helpful educational resources about personal finance at Schwab Moneywise.In this special episode, host Mark Riepe is joined in-studio by Stephanie Shadel, a senior wealth advisor at Schwab Wealth Advisory, to help define wealth management and explain what a wealth advisor generally does for their clients.After delineating when personal finance topics begin to justify needs for the broader, more holistic scope of wealth management, they discuss some of the key elements involved, including investment planning, retirement planning, risk management, education support, banking, estate planning, and tax planning. Later, Stephanie speaks to the personalization of financial strategies and the corresponding importance of understanding clients' personal histories and preferences. She and Mark also talk about the impact of cognitive and emotional biases on financial decision-making, especially when factoring in the influences of a spouse, business partner, or family member.Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Reach out to Mark on his LinkedIn or on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.Important DisclosuresSchwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.Portfolio Management provided by Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser and affiliate of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (Schwab). Please read the Schwab Wealth Advisory and the Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. Disclosure Brochures for information and disclosures about this program. The Wealth Advisor, Associate Wealth Advisor, and other representatives making investment recommendations in your Schwab Wealth Advisory accounts are employees of Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.Market fluctuations may cause the value of investment fund shares held in a donor-advised fund (DAF) account to be worth more or less than the value of the original contribution to the funds.​Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.Past performance is no guarantee of future results, and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.There are risks associated with investing in dividend paying stocks, ...
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • How Do You Gauge the Impact of Washington on Your Finances?
    Oct 28 2024

    Mark Riepe is joined by Michael Townsend, managing director of legislative and regulatory affairs at Schwab, to discuss the cognitive and emotional biases that influence political decision-making, the gap between campaign promises and legislative realities, and the complexities surrounding federal debt and entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare.

    Their conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the legislative process, the impact of affective forecasting on political perceptions, and the disconnect between political actions and market performance. Michael also highlights the challenges of addressing long-term issues in a short-term political environment and the need for investors to filter out noise and focus on their long-term goals.

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

    Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

    Important Disclosures

    The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    Past performance is no guarantee of future results, and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.

    Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

    All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

    Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.

    (1024-1YBC)

    Show more Show less
    36 mins
  • How Do You Plan for the Succession of a Business?
    Oct 14 2024

    In this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe delves into the key aspects of succession planning for business owners, including how our behavioral tendencies may influence the decisions we make around a business's future.

    He's joined by Austin Jarvis, a director of estate, trust, and high-net-worth tax at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, to discuss the unique challenges faced by business owners when keeping a business within the family versus selling to a third party. Austin highlights the need for proper documentation, the role of specialists, and the impact of cognitive and emotional biases on the different steps of the process. He references real-life examples that illustrate the complexities of business transitions, underscoring the necessity of a well-thought-out succession plan.

    Resources mentioned by Mark in the episode:

    • "Business Succession: 3 Ways to Transfer Your Business"
    • "How to Handle an Inherited Business"
    • "How to Plan, Launch, and Maintain a Business"
    • "5 Takeaways from TV's Succession"
    • Schwab Small Business Solutions
    • Schwab Trust, Estate & Charitable
    • Schwab Wealth Advisory

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

    Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

    Important Disclosures

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

    Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    (1024-YWBA)

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • How Can You Plan for a New Pet?
    Sep 30 2024

    In this episode of Financial Decoder, host Mark Riepe and Susan Hirshman discuss the financial aspects of owning a pet. Susan highlights the responsibilities, costs, and emotional attachment that come with pet ownership, emphasizing the importance of financial planning. Mark asks her about the role of pet insurance in covering unexpected expenses and for tips for comparing policies. They also explore creative workarounds for those who may not be able to afford a pet on their own.

    Susan Hirshman is a director of wealth management for Schwab Wealth Advisory and the Schwab Center for Financial Research. She's also a Chartered Financial Analyst, a Certified Financial Planner Professional and a Certified Public Accountant—and a pet owner.

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show.

    Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes.

    Important Disclosures

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

    Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

    Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.

    (0924-VGUA)

    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • How Can You Preserve Your Assets for Your Heirs?
    Aug 19 2024

    Taxes are just one part of estate planning. People are also asked to consider custody arrangements, medical decisions, and legal issues. But it comes as no surprise that people who have worked their whole lives to build an estate are wary of letting taxes and fees eat away at their hard-earned assets.

    Further complicating the current environment is the fact that lifetime estate and gift tax exemption thresholds are poised to be cut in half at the stroke of midnight December 31, 2025, leading to a potentially sharp jump in some estates' tax liability. But there's still time to prepare.

    On this episode of Financial Decoder, Mark interviews Austin Jarvis, director of estate, trust, and high-net-worth tax at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. They discuss why everyone needs a will, various estate planning documents, and what to do if you have a large estate that might owe more taxes later.
    You can read articles from Austin Jarvis, including “Estate Planning for Low Interest Rates” and “How to Help Your Grandkids Pay for College” on Schwab.com.

    Follow Financial Decoder for free on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.

    Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder.

    If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    Important Disclosures

    The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision.

    All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

    Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

    Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

    The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    Schwab does not provide tax advice. Clients should consult a professional tax advisor for their tax advice needs.

    Consult with an attorney and tax advisor prior to taking any action based upon this information.

    The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

    (0824-LC7F)

    Show more Show less
    35 mins