Nurturing Financial Freedom

By: Ed Lambert and Alex Cabot Jon Gay
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  • Summary

  • This podcast is hosted by Ed Lambert and Alex Cabot, managing partners of Birch Run Financial and Financial Advisors with Raymond James Financial Services. Their mission is to help spread financial literacy. The majority of adults only know a fraction of what they should about personal finance. On this podcast, Ed and Alex will discuss both basic and advanced concepts on how to manage your money. Whether you are 22 or 62; an MBA or an engineer, you can learn something today. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Birch Run Financial is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James. Content represents the opinions of the speaker and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Important Disclosure Information: http://raymondjames.com/smicd.htm Birch Run Financial is located at 595 E Swedesford Rd, Ste 360, Wayne, PA 19087 and can be reached at 484.395.2190. The rating is not intended to be an endorsement, or any way indicative of the advisors abilities to provide investment advice or management. This podcast is intended for informational purposes only.
    2021-2024 Birch Run Financial
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Economics Personal Finance
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Episodes
  • The 2024 Election and The Economy

    The 2024 Election and The Economy
    Oct 21 2024
    Today, Alex Cabot and Ed Lambert from Birch Run Financial dive into the intersection of politics and financial markets, focusing on the upcoming election. We discuss widespread market myths and offer a data-driven approach to navigating political cycles as an investor.Alex begins by addressing common misconceptions about election years and market volatility. Despite popular belief, election years do not inherently cause heightened volatility. Examining the past nine presidential elections, Alex highlights that only three were more volatile than average—2000, 2008, and 2020—events driven not by elections, but by major economic crises such as the tech bubble burst, the financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.Another misconception Alex tackles is the belief that markets perform better under Republican administrations due to their perceived pro-business stance. Historical data shows that markets have actually done well under both Democratic and Republican presidencies. Staying invested throughout all political cycles, regardless of the party in power, yields better long-term results, as markets ultimately respond more to economic fundamentals than to political leadership.Ed wraps up the discussion with an optimistic outlook on the U.S. economy. He emphasizes that, no matter the election outcome, the U.S. will continue to be the world’s dominant economic power. Key statistics reinforce this point: the U.S. GDP is currently 55% larger than China’s, and the country leads in energy production and technological innovation. He also points to the U.S.'s demographic advantages, including high immigration rates, which help sustain economic growth compared to other developed nations with aging populations.The episode underscores the importance of remaining calm and focused on long-term financial goals, no matter the election results. The U.S. economy is resilient, and sound investment strategies should not be swayed by political fearmongering or short-term volatility. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert and Alex Cabot and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Birch Run Financial is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Birch Run Financial is located at 595 E Swedesford Rd, Ste 360, ...
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    21 mins
  • Fed Cuts Rates - Where Are We Headed?

    Fed Cuts Rates - Where Are We Headed?
    Sep 26 2024
    In this episode, we discuss the recent Federal Reserve rate cut and its implications for the market and economy. The Fed reduced its overnight lending rate by half a percentage point, bringing it down from 5.25% to 4.75%. This was the first rate cut since March 2020, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. The Fed's dual mandate—maintaining price stability and maximizing employment—guides its decisions. With inflation largely under control, the Fed is now able to focus on adjusting rates to support employment without risking economic stability.Ed explains that the current rate reduction is a strategic move, allowing the Fed flexibility to respond to future economic challenges. With rates still relatively high, the Fed has room to cut further if needed, but prefers a gradual approach to avoid destabilizing progress against inflation. He mentions the possibility of additional cuts later this year, barring any sudden spikes in inflation.Alex highlights how the market has reacted to the Fed's actions, noting that price-to-earnings ratios and bond yields adjusted even before the official rate cut. This preemptive adjustment is common as markets tend to "price in" expected policy changes. However, he cautions that predicting future interest rates accurately is challenging, and the Fed's projections often diverge from reality.We also explore the potential impact of these rate changes on the housing market. Higher interest rates have made borrowing more expensive, which affects home affordability. Many homeowners who refinanced at low rates may be reluctant to sell and take on a new mortgage at higher rates, constraining housing supply. Despite these challenges, Alex advises that personal financial decisions, such as purchasing a home, should be based on individual circumstances rather than solely on market conditions.Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of having a personalized, all-weather investment strategy that can withstand various economic scenarios. Rather than making reactive changes based on market fluctuations, maintaining a consistent and well-thought-out plan tailored to individual goals and risk tolerance is crucial. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert and Alex Cabot and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors,...
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    26 mins
  • The Winds of Change?

    The Winds of Change?
    Aug 20 2024
    In this episode of "Nurturing Financial Freedom," we discuss the surprising market volatility that occurred in early August 2024 and explore what investors should take away from these events. But first, we actually met in person last month - for the first time after working together for over five years!The market's volatility in August was triggered primarily by two factors: weaker-than-expected economic reports and high market valuations. The Institute for Supply Management’s report on business indicated declining confidence in the manufacturing sector, which, alongside a disappointing non-farm payroll report, caused investors to worry that the economy might be slowing too quickly in its fight against inflation. This led to a significant market pullback, particularly in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which dropped 2,000 points over a few days. But even in the time between writing this episode and recording it, market volatility has calmed.Alex and Ed emphasize that while these reports sparked concern, the broader economic context remains positive. They remind listeners that market fluctuations are normal, and short-term downturns don’t necessarily signal long-term issues. The key takeaway is the importance of maintaining a balanced and diversified portfolio to withstand such volatility. They also highlight the Federal Reserve's potential role in stabilizing the economy, noting that if a significant slowdown occurs, the Fed has the ability to cut interest rates to stimulate growth. It's possible we see this after their next meeting in September.Predicting short-term market movements is extremely difficult, akin to forecasting the weather. Instead, the focus should be on long-term strategies and maintaining perspective during turbulent times. Ed advises against panicking during market volatility, stressing the importance of staying the course with a well-diversified investment plan. You can always email Alex and Ed at info@birchrunfinancial.com or give them a call at 484-395-2190.Or visit them on the web at https://www.birchrunfinancial.com/Alex and Ed's Book: Mastering The Money Mind: https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Money-Mind-Thinking-Personal/dp/1544530536 Any opinions are those of Ed Lambert and Alex Cabot and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or forecasts will occur. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but Raymond James does not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. The examples throughout this material are for illustrative purposes only. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal services. Please discuss these matters with the appropriate professional. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. CDs are insured by the FDIC and offer a fixed rate of return, whereas the return and principal value of investment securities fluctuate with changes in market conditions. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. Stock Market. Keep in mind that individuals cannot invest directly in any index, and index performance does not include transaction costs or other fees, which will affect actual investment performance. Individual investor's results will vary. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. International investing involves special risks, including currency fluctuations, differing financial accounting standards, and possible political and economic volatility. There is an inverse relationship between interest rate movements and bond prices. Generally, when interest rates rise, bond prices fall and when interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise. Investing in small cap stocks generally involves greater risks, and therefore, may not be appropriate for every investor. The prices of small company stocks may be subject to more volatility than those of large company stocks. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Birch Run Financial is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Birch Run Financial is located at 595 E Swedesford Rd, Ste 360, Wayne PA 19087 and can be reached at 484-395-2190. Any rating is not ...
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    17 mins

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