Money Talk: The Annex Wealth Management Show - Milwaukee

This episode of Money Talk opens with hosts Dave Spano and Chief Economic Strategist Dr. Brian Jacobson paying tribute to Alan Greenspan, who lived to 100. They discuss his long Fed tenure, the evolution of central bank communication (from the “briefcase indicator” to today’s heavy transparency and dot plots), his 1996 “irrational exuberance” warning, and interesting parallels with today’s AI boom and potential productivity gains.Markets & EconomyAI “Tech Wreck” & Memory Boom: Focus has shifted from semiconductors (Nvidia etc.) to memory chips (Micron and Korean firms). Micron posted blowout earnings with ~85% gross margins, showing strong pricing power — but any slowdown fears trigger sharp stock swings. This demand is now hitting consumers: Apple raised iPhone/MacBook prices, Microsoft and Sony increased Xbox/PlayStation costs, and electronic goods prices rose ~10% YoY per the PCE index.Data Center Backlash: Rapid buildout faces local, state, and potential federal moratoriums — adding election-year volatility.Global Snapshot: UK political instability post-Brexit with rising populism (Nigel Farage/Reform UK gaining); Middle East — ships resuming through Strait of Hormuz, sending oil prices on a “round trip” back to pre-conflict levels (~$74–75 Brent); flattening Treasury yield curve signals possible slower growth ahead.Financial Planning HighlightsRoth Conversions: Senior Wealth Advisor & CFP Mike Kirk explains when conversions make sense (current vs. future tax brackets, RMD preparation, legacy goals). Key points: no earned income needed for conversions (unlike contributions), strategic timing around market dips or life events, and creative ways to pay the tax bill. Significant long-term savings are often possible with proper planning.401(k) Rollovers & Old Plans: Director of Retirement Plan Services Tom Parkes walks through options when leaving an employer — leave it, roll to new 401(k), or move to IRA. IRAs usually offer more investment choices and control (especially for larger balances), while 401(k)s may have limited menus. Emphasis on consolidation to avoid losing track of accounts, understanding fees, beneficiary flexibility, and avoiding early cash-outs.Additional SegmentsAmerica 250 History: Dr. Jacobson covers 1913 — creation of the Federal Reserve after the 1907 Panic, 16th Amendment (income tax at 7% on the ultra-wealthy), 17th Amendment (direct Senate elections), Prohibition, WWI, and America’s shift to global creditor.Upcoming Events: In-person “Single in Retirement” and Women in Wealth sessions, plus a July 2 Instant Insights webinar on the early employment report.The show reinforces Annex Wealth Management’s fee-only fiduciary model and in-house planning expertise, encouraging listeners to click “Get Started” at annexwealth.com. It delivers a balanced mix of timely market insight, practical retirement tactics, and historical context.

For our "Week in Review", Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down Kevin Warsh’s debut at the Fed, a unanimous decision, new internal task forces, and a leadership style that invites open disagreement. We then turn to Trump’s surprise Iran memorandum, a move that’s already easing energy market fears but raises major political and funding questions that could shape global stability and defense supply chains. Finally, we connect the dots between rising inflation, shifting consumer behavior, and a reopening IPO window led by SpaceX, as falling energy prices could reset the economic narrative heading into the second half of the year.

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack a mix of political tension, highlighted by developments in Iran, and a wave of fresh economic data shaping the market outlook. Inflation remains elevated, consumer sentiment is softening, and small business optimism is slipping, even as housing and trade show pockets of strength. We also explore what rising IPO activity, from AI leaders like OpenAI to more traditional brands, may signal about where investors are placing their bets next. Plus, segments on deciding who should be the taxpayer if you're married and why people are raiding their 401(k) accounts.

In this Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen dig into SpaceX’s headline-grabbing IPO—and why the bigger story may be its bold (and unproven) AI ambitions. They also explore the intensifying AI arms race, from trillion-dollar valuations to Nvidia’s push into everyday tech, and what it means when even standout earnings fail to impress. Plus, a look at shifting tariffs and a two-speed economy, where strong manufacturing momentum meets growing uncertainty beneath the surface.

Inflation is still running hot while real incomes quietly slip, creating a growing disconnect beneath record market levels. This week Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down why investors are focused on strong corporate results even as consumers grow more selective with their spending across retailers like Costco, Dollar Tree, and Best Buy. Plus, we dive into the widening gap between AI winners and worriers and what it signals for the next phase of the market. Plus, segments on the importance of Roth accounts and selling assets in retirement.

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack a fast-moving mix of global headlines and what they really mean for your money, from rising tensions overseas to new policy shifts that could reshape housing and trade. We break down the latest economic data and what the Federal Reserve is signaling about inflation, interest rates, and where things may be headed next. We also connect it all to the real world, from AI driven deals and IPO buzz to what businesses are seeing right now, and the essential money habits every parent should be teaching their kids beyond just saving.

Big global moves this week as the US and China reopen trade channels on beef, oil, and agriculture, even as tensions flare over Taiwan. Meanwhile, political shakeups hit both sides of the Atlantic with Kevin Warsh narrowly taking the helm at the Fed and the UK prime minister stepping down after market jitters. Back home, Trump pushes a gas tax pause and cheaper beef while economists flag the risks of populist policies, and housing data barely ticks higher.  Also, how to navigate the ups and down of the retirement smile along with contribution strategies.

This week’s episode sharpens the focus on major, politically driven developments, from the SEC’s push to rethink decades-old reporting rules to the high-stakes uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack key economic signals, including tighter bank lending standards and what they reveal about business confidence and credit conditions. And on Main Street, we connect the dots of rising costs, housing affordability challenges, war-driven hesitation in spending, and a deeper question lingering beneath it all: why retirement confidence is starting to slip.

This week Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down a high-stakes geopolitical and monetary situation, from rising Middle East tensions and OPEC fractures to the puzzling drumbeat for rate hikes with high oil prices. We unpack a divided Fed, increasingly hawkish signals from global central banks, and what may be Chair Powell’s final act as leadership transitions are ahead. Economic data remains solid, with resilient GDP growth and jobless claims evoking a “Summer of ’69” moment for the labor market.  Plus, myths about filing an extension and tools for finding long-term care for a loved one.

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen look ahead to what less Fed forward guidance could mean for rate volatility, why strong balance sheets may become a market advantage, and how global energy flows could quietly shift away from geopolitical chokepoints. Plus, the political noise shaking markets and why retirement confidence has sunk to a ten‑year low, as rising costs and growing uncertainty leave workers feeling increasingly uneasy. Additional segments on being tax savvy and Required Minimum Distribution Strategies.

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen discuss the sudden halt of Kevin Warsh’s nomination hearing and a huge recovery in the markets. We unpack soft housing data, jittery small businesses, cautious hiring, rising input costs, and a Beige Book full of uncertainty, and if the economy feels less like a recession.  Special guest, and former Navy SEAL John Choate, joins the show and things he's seen overseas.

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down where income taxes hit hardest, why a third of Americans pay zero federal income tax, and how mandatory spending quietly dominates the budget. Plus, a two‑week U.S.–Iran ceasefire, the Strait of Hormuz, and why geopolitics still has markets, and policymakers, on edge.  What is "Retirement Subtraction", and what are the strategies to guide you through it?  Also, how can donor-advised funds help with your tax filing plan for next year?

This week, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack President Trump’s calls for the U.S. to step back from policing Middle East energy security, his push to exit the Iran conflict after taking away its nuclear and military capabilities, and Tehran’s demand for guarantees to prevent future aggression. We explore why oil price shocks hurt the economy far less than they used to, how U.S. energy efficiency has transformed since the Gulf War era, and why the Fed is content to “wait and see” rather than react to short‑term supply disruptions. Plus, a timely Labor Department proposal that could open 401(k) plans to private equity, private credit, crypto, and other alternatives, offering clearer fiduciary cover for plan managers.  Also, segments on direct indexing and plans for rich retirees.

For the Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen unpack a busy week where energy markets once again broke the rules, with negative prices in parts of the US echoing the shock of April 2020 and showing how oil profits can help offset losses in gas. They also take a look at fast moving global developments, from sudden shifts in US Iran dynamics to Turkey considering sales of its gold reserves to support its currency. Plus, practical conversations on smart ways to put a bigger tax refund to work and how to plan ahead for the rising costs of weddings.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen discuss rising fuel costs, Iran’s attacks on energy infrastructure, and Powell’s defiant stance at the Fed. We break down why backward‑looking data may matter less in a post‑Iran world and new proposals on bank capital and SEC reporting. Plus, we look beyond oil to Nvidia’s trillion‑dollar ambitions, Macy’s surprising “shrink‑to‑grow” strategy, and why Americans might be outsourcing steak‑risk to restaurants.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break down the nonstop developments out of Iran, from a new leader to massive U.S. military spending and a global scramble to replace disrupted oil and fertilizer flows through the Strait of Hormuz. We also unpack why the IEA’s historic 400‑million‑barrel release may not calm markets, how shaky private‑credit headlines are starting to snowball, and why economic data like CPI and jobs reports are already outdated in a $100‑oil world. Plus, we explore surprising shifts in consumer behavior as giants like McDonald’s and Dollar General chase customers on both ends of the income spectrum amid mounting travel, trade, and supply‑chain strains.  Also, segments on the trend of people raiding their 401(k) accounts and "retirement subtraction".

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen look at why classic diversification struggled as stocks, bonds, and even gold moved together, and why holding cash with a real plan may matter more than ever. We talk about the rise in hardship withdrawals from retirement accounts and what that reveals about financial stress across the country. We also break down major global tensions, shifting oil flows, and the latest economic data that is shaping markets.  Plus, segments on navigating financial conversations with family and how to leverage your health as your greatest wealth.

This week, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen dig into family spending trends. They also break down the State of the Union’s most concrete policy news: a revamped retirement match program modeled after the Thrift Savings Plan, offering up to $1,000 for eligible workers. Finally, we discuss the rapid‑fire shifts in U.S. tariff strategy, and what the new 15% rate means for global supply chains and everyday consumers.  Plus, segments on the new IRS policy on paper checks and rollover mistakes you should avoid when it comes to your 401(k).

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down whether the latest Fed minutes truly put another rate hike back on the table, all while markets juggle rising geopolitical tension with Iran and attention on Japan’s massive U.S. investment commitments. They’ll dig into the data, from falling jobless claims and a widening trade deficit to signs of a manufacturing rebound, as well as what demographic shifts mean for companies like Molson Coors and Harley-Davidson. Plus, they explore the growing turf war between Amazon and Walmart and what it signals for consumers and investors alike.  Other segments include tax moves before the deadline, and a new $6,000 deduction for seniors.

For our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack Japan’s political shake‑up, where a landslide election win is clearing the way for food‑tax cuts and potential changes to the nation’s post‑war constitution. They turn to the U.S. next, tackling rising economic pressures, from a growing federal deficit and tariff‑driven price hikes to a housing market still millions of homes short. Finally, they sift through the latest data and corporate earnings to reveal what’s really happening on the ground as consumers pull back, mortgage stress creeps up, and businesses split between AI‑powered momentum and tariff‑strained margins. Plus, two bonus segments: AI investing strategies for high‑net‑worth portfolios and key tax moves ahead of the 2025 deadline.

It was a whirlwind week in politics and economics, from shutdown fallout and delayed labor data to a surprise rebound in U.S. manufacturing. In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down major Trump-era developments, including a proposed minerals stockpile, a pathway‑to‑ownership housing plan, and an India trade deal shaped by energy and geopolitics. We also cover Fed leadership changes, rising tensions with Iran, what it all means for markets and workers, and a timely segment on charitable giving with Maggie Tate-Techtmann, Executive Director at HAWS.

During our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down the new tariff threats from President Trump, a weaker U.S. dollar, and a landmark trade deal between the European Union and India. We also cover the Federal Reserve holding rates steady while signaling a mixed economic picture. On the data front, slowing job growth, plunging consumer confidence, and the weakest population growth since COVID point to rising uncertainty about the U.S. economy.  Plus, segments on the new "Trump Accounts" and rolling over 401(k) plans.

We take a deep dive into the political developments that defined the week, with Davos setting the agenda. From tariffs and Greenland to housing policy, credit cards, crypto, and global markets, Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review. As always, we round it out with key international reactions, important data points shaping the macro-outlook, and segments on retroactive tax strategies and preparing for the Silver Tsunami.

From Trump’s surprise call for a 10% cap on credit‑card interest to the DOJ’s subpoenas aimed at Jerome Powell, it was a week packed with political and market-moving headlines. Inflation kept cooling and corporate earnings stayed upbeat, even as consumers grew more cautious. Dave Spano and Dr. Brian Jacobsen walk through it for our Week in Review, and we dive into how ACA subsidies are affecting people under 65.

The Santa Rally skipped town this year, but the January Effect is making waves, especially for small caps. Markets are buzzing after U.S. forces captured Venezuela’s president Maduro, fueling bold oil ambitions despite steep challenges. Plus, trade tensions and tariff twists continue, and younger workers being affected by AI-exposed occupations. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it all down in this Week in Review, along with segments on key milestone ages for retirement planning and avoiding online scams.

China’s economy hit a rough patch with deflation fears, while U.S. markets soared despite historic tariff hikes and a few headline-grabbing scares.  Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen break down the headlines into the new year with our Week in Review. Gold and silver had a banner year, Bitcoin stumbled, and AI kept stealing the spotlight. Next year looks even bigger for AI with new models from OpenAI and Meta set to shake things up.  Also, how could the 4% rule help you in retirement, and how you can be prepared if you are single in your later years.

This week’s show takes a look back at 2025 and noted how the markets have broadened heading into 2026. We explore decisions high net worth people face, as well as considerations when selling assets. One team interview explores “money guilt” – the uncomfortable feeling of second-guessing spending decisions. We also interview Chellee Siewert from Capture Sports Management, who helps athletes and entertainers find their “why.” Finally, we take a look at what you might consider as you enter retirement: what are your first steps?

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen unpack distorted economic data and what shifting payroll trends could mean for the labor market in our Week in Review. Inflation may be taking a breather, but consumer spending is holding strong as we head into the holidays. Plus, we preview earnings season, explore what to expect in your first meeting with a wealth manager, and dive into creating a lasting ‘living legacy.’”

The Fed trimmed rates but hinted it’s ready to pause for now. In our Week in Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen dive into why a brighter outlook on productivity could ease the Fed’s path, what the latest board moves reveal, and why markets are already talking cuts in 2026. We’ll also discuss the buzz around balance sheet changes.  Also, practical tips for family money talks and explore why 2026 could be a big year for estate planning.

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen walk you through a week where strong shopping meets mixed economic news in our Week in Review. They also cover tariff updates, election stories, challenges facing retailers and small businesses, a big moment in charitable giving. Later, trending discussions about equity compensation and planning for solo aging. 

This week’s Week in Review covers major political moves, from President Trump’s planned trip to Beijing to the launch of the Genesis Mission and the latest readings on growth, confidence, inflation, and business sentiment. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen also unpack notable corporate stories, evolving consumer behavior, the data to watch in the week ahead, plus segments on smart ways to gift money and how to think about “Alignment” versus “Accumulation” in retirement. 

Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down everything from tariff-driven grocery relief to mixed economic signals heading into the holidays for the Week in Review. They’ll help make sense of what matters now, and what might matter next. We also talk about how parents can build a real plan to help their kids tackle student loans. And later, smart end-of-year decisions for high-net-worth families looking to get organized before 2026.

Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen tackle a busy week of headlines in our Week in Review. Everything from the shutdown delay and shifting tariffs to new housing ideas like portable mortgages. We’ll also dig into what small businesses and big-name earnings are signaling as we head into the holidays. And later, we break down “equity compensation” and whether it’s something you’d actually want as part of your pay. 

This week, we’re digging into the “K-shaped” economy—who’s rising, who’s struggling, and what the latest numbers reveal. In our Week in Review, Wealth Advisor Austin Grandinetti and Chief Economic Strategist Dr. Brian Jacobsen sort through layoffs, earnings, tech turbulence, and political headlines shaping the markets. Plus, smart tax moves later in life, including lessons from a couple in their 80s, and whether it ever makes sense to hit pause on your 401(k) contributions, and how to get back on track if you do. 

Central banks were in the spotlight this week with rate cuts, policy holds, and new signals about the path ahead for quantitative tightening. The Fed made another move, and investors are already asking what could come next in 2025. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break down what it all means in this week’s Week In Review. Plus, a look at the surprising “Labubu Trend” sweeping the collectibles world — and what lessons it offers for investors. Later in the show, we’ll explore six key benefits of incorporating trusts into a comprehensive financial plan. 

At last, we’ve got some numbers to work with. The new CPI report is out, setting the stage for the 2026 Social Security cost of living adjustment. Meanwhile, global data keeps coming in, and China’s struggles are becoming clearer, and could deepen without some movement on trade. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen will unpack it all in our Week in Review. We’ll also tackle a few tax myths.  Is getting that big refund check really a win? And later, Deanne Phillips joins us to share smart ways to use tax breaks and resources if you’re caring for someone in your home.

Beige Book Blues.  This qualitative data may be the best we can get during the data draught. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss in our Week in Review.  Also, banks have said loan quality is pretty good.  You'll hear how to be prepared for a longer life in retirement.  Health and financial planning are very much connected.  Mike Kirk talks about how to prepare if you retire at 65, but live into your 90s.

The government shutdown.  Mark Beck and Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review.  TSA agents are calling in sick. That ended the shutdown in 2019.  Will it this time?  ACA subsidies are the sticking point. That and anxious investors drive gold prices above $4,000 an ounce, marking its best year since the 1976.  Also, how is your 401k looking?  Things have recently changed with how you can use it to your advantage.  Deanne Phillips joins the show to talk about being single in retirement.

Growth: Shutdown slowdownThere may be more to this government shutdown than meets the eye - this time, it could signal deeper cuts to federal employment. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in our Week in Review.  Also on the show: How much insurance is enough? Our financial planning team takes a closer look. And Deanne Phillips shares thoughtful ways grandparents can make a lasting impact on their grandchildren.

As the October 1 deadline approaches, a compromise seems unlikely. Join Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review, covering the looming shutdown. Plus, get a preview of next weekend's Divorce Workshop and explore the Great Baby Boomer Wealth Transfer.

Tariff-related inflation is unlikely to spike suddenly; instead, it’s expected to build gradually as companies cautiously adjust pricing to gauge market tolerance. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss the Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut rates by 25 basis points. The show also explores the role of 529 plans in higher education planning and answers the question, “Do I need an LLC?” with a detailed look at the key considerations.

Did Spring 2024 to Summer 2024 have a mini-recession? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss how the Bureau of Labor Statistics significantly overestimated employment figures in early 2024, missing signs of a slowdown that may have bordered on one. With the Federal Reserve likely to cut interest rates soon, there's an emphasis on the importance of transparency in economic data, and the Fed’s challenge in balancing inflation control with supporting a cooling economy. Also, planning for Generation X. What do you need to consider?

Revised figures show a summer slowdown, with 13,000 jobs lost in June. What's that mean? Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen break it down in their Week-in-Review. Also on the show, High Net Worth families aren't immune to unexpected cash flow challenges—learn what’s driving these issues and how to address them. Plus, Deanne Phillips examines the growing trend of parents financially supporting adult children, revealing a striking surge in monthly expenses.

Brian Jacobsen dives into our Week-in-Review, unpacking the latest Q2 GDP revisions that offer hope but reveal clouds behind the silver lining. Despite a slight uptick in new home sales, consumer confidence is waning. The episode also explores the growing trend of claiming Social Security earlier than advised and shares practical tips to protect yourself and loved ones from senior scams.

Jerome Powell’s Jackson Hole remarks sparked expectations of rate cuts, but did data dependency dampen the mood? Brian Jacobsen shares our Week-in-Review. Plus, we explore equity compensation strategies, the rise in gray divorce, and tips for navigating the process.

Inflation seems to have gone down to a manageable level. Does the Fed agree? And does the 4% rule still apply? Business sales transitions are an opportunity to reset your plan. 

Stagflation combines low economic growth with high inflation. Peak uncertainty around trade and tariffs may have coincided with an economic low point, suggesting the worst could be behind us rather than ahead. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. We’ll also explore concerns about tapping a 401(k) for emergencies and strategies for planning major expenses, like a lavish wedding.

July’s report arrives as policymakers navigate conflicting economic narratives. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. Our ongoing coverage of the One Big Beautiful Bill includes tax analysis and three key considerations for parents planning for their children.

The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving. 

Recent data indicate the U.S. economy is gaining stronger footing than anticipated. Industrial production increased by 0.3% in June, surpassing expectations, and retail sales rebounded with a 0.6% rise. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Also on the show, we introduce the newest member of the Annex Private Client team and share tips to address imbalanced diversification in your 401(k), a common issue that can impact your financial health.