Five Minute Finance

Securities lending lets you lend your stocks or bonds to someone else and earn interest in return. It’s legit and has been around for a long time, with the borrower often using your securities to "short sell." You could make some nice passive income, like $800 a month, without doing much. Plus, you still own your stocks and can sell them whenever you want. But there are some catches—like losing th...

In this episode, Matt Robison and Mike Morton consider the potential expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025 and what it could mean for your finances. They focus on three key areas: the possible reduction of the lifetime gifting exemption from $13 million to $6 million; the likely increase in tax rates due to a decrease in the standard deduction, making it a good time to consider Ro...

In this episode, Matt Robison and Mike Morton dive into the world of investment fees and the truth behind the "no free lunch" adage. They explore how Wall Street packages seemingly attractive investment products with hidden fees that can erode returns. From Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) with unexpected management fees to interval funds with layers of costs, we break down why fees are the number o...

In this episode, Matt Robison and Mike Morton go back-to-basics with a focus on Roth Conversions—a financial strategy that could potentially save you millions of dollars in retirement. Whether you've amassed significant savings in tax-deferred accounts like Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s or you're just starting to think about how to optimize your retirement funds, this episode is for you. Explore ho...

Are you tired of being told to just "go with the flow"? Well, not today. In this episode, Matt Robison and I delve into why focusing on your net worth is more important than worrying about your cash flow. Have you ever scrambled to cover monthly expenses, or dipped into your investments for an unexpected charge, and felt the stress afterward? You're not alone, but these moments don’t truly reflect...

In this week's episode, I’m joined by financial coach Adam Koren , an expert in helping people overcome their money anxieties, to discuss the elephant in the room: your finances. No one likes to talk money, but it is monumentally important to pay attention to your finances, regardless of your income level. Stop feeling like you “should” know how and start learning what you can do to establish fina...

In this episode, Mike Morton and Matt Robison discuss the incredible benefits of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), which offer a unique way to save money without losing any to taxes. Learn how HSAs provide a "triple whammy" of tax advantages: contributions are tax-deductible, funds grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. Understand the strategies to maximize your...

Dreaming of establishing your own dynasty? While you may not control a nation, you can create a long-lasting educational legacy with a 529 plan! Join Matt Robison and me, Mike Morton, on this week’s podcast as we delve into funding education for your children, grandchildren, and even beyond. We'll explore how 529 plans, tax-advantaged savings accounts for educational expenses, can be the foundatio...

In this week's podcast episode, "10 Financial Hot Topics for 2024: Boring and Painful," join me and Matt Robison as we delve into Allan Roth's latest financial insights for 2024 . We cover critical topics my clients often ask about, from understanding the difference between real and nominal returns,and managing cash to avoid inflation's eroding effects, to ensuring your investments oscillate betwe...

For decades, concerns have circulated that the U.S. The Social Security system would run out of money. While headlines continue to warn of imminent depletion, the political implications, especially during election years, fuel much of this fear. Join Matt Robison and Mike Morton this week as they discuss the efforts currently underway to ensure the sustainability of Social Security, such as adjusti...

Join us this week as Matt Robison and I discuss the strategies for minimizing capital gains taxes in today’s profitable housing market. We'll share a real-life client story that highlights how a couple saved thousands in tax liability by leveraging home improvement receipts and the primary residence exclusion. Discover how meticulous record-keeping and strategic planning can significantly reduce y...

To-do or not to-do? Take a calendar approach Ever feel like your to-do list never ends? Constantly moving unfinished tasks to the next day? In this episode, Matt Robison and I explore a game-changing productivity hack: scheduling tasks directly on your calendar. Forget the overwhelming to-do list that grows endlessly. Instead, allocate specific time slots in your calendar for tasks, using your exi...

Join Matt Robison and me as we delve into the intricate world of inherited IRAs. In the first quarter of 2023, Americans held over $12 trillion in IRAs, and if you've inherited some of that wealth, there's a lot you need to know. We'll clarify who qualifies as an Eligible Designated Beneficiary (EDB), the impact of the Secure Act 1.0's 10-year rule, and the importance of understanding required min...

In this week’s podcast, Matt Robison and I delve into the world of "home hacking," a trend that's gaining traction in the realm of real estate. But forget about the usual DIY tricks to boost your home's value – we're talking about doubling your net worth through unconventional living arrangements. Imagine living with your mom as the key to unlocking financial prosperity. Sounds intriguing, right?...

In this week's episode, Matt Robison and I delve into the essential lesson from renowned economist Robert Shiller: don't get swept away by stock market hype. Join us as we explore the implications of the Shiller PE ratio, currently standing at a lofty "34," we unpack Shiller's groundbreaking research and its practical applications for investors. With a focus on the importance of valuation and main...

In this week's podcast, Matt Robison and I, Mike Morton, delve into the world of charitable giving and the benefits of using a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) into your philanthropic strategy. A DAF functions like a personal account where you can deposit various assets, such as cash, stocks, or cryptocurrencies, which then become charitable donations. We explore nine compelling reasons why utilizing a DA...

In today's episode, Mike Morton and Matt Robison introduce a revolutionary solution to alleviate financial anxiety: the Joker Fund. Inspired by the infamous line from The Dark Knight, "Nobody panics when things go according to plan," they emphasize the importance of planning ahead to tackle irregular expenses that often leave individuals feeling financially overwhelmed. With statistics showing tha...

In this week’s episode, hosts Mike Morton and Matt Robison discuss IRA Beneficiaries. They delve into the critical decision of choosing a beneficiary for your Individual Retirement Account(s) (IRA) and its financial ramifications. Through a real-life example, you will see how one of Mike’s clients' strategic maneuver saved her family $150k in taxes by spreading the withdrawal of her spouse's $500k...

In this week’s episode, Mike Morton is joined by financial coach Adam Koren to discuss strategies for overcoming the stress and shame often associated with managing personal finances. They delve into the emotional aspects of money management, emphasizing the importance of recognizing societal barriers to financial literacy and fostering open dialogue. Adam shares insights on facing fears surroundi...

Join Matt Robison and I this week as we discuss the various ‘buckets’ your finances are in and if you have the right ratios for your needs. Inspired by a real client’s story, we talk about portfolio holdings such as real estate, brokerage and retirement. Having too much money “locked up” in assets such as your house and your 401k could make it difficult for you to cover unexpected expenses or even...

In this week's episode, Matt Robison and I, Mike Morton, delve into the concept of asset location. No, we aren’t revealing CIA operatives' whereabouts but rather discussing the strategic placement of investments, which can significantly impact returns, potentially yielding a $74k difference. Asset location refers to where investments are held, such as 401ks, IRAs, or brokerage accounts, with a foc...

This week I am joined by special guest Anne Lester to discuss the importance of educating young individuals about finances. In particular, we discuss Anne’s latest book titled Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want and its focus on individual financial responsibility. We also talk about the shift towards personal financial management, overcoming behavioral biases in savin...

Risk: It bears Repeating Anything worth saying is worth repeating. - Humble the Poet We’ve talked about risk many times in the past. In particular, how you view risk. The reason the conversation bears repeating, other than the fact that I field this topic on the regular, is because it is tied to a strong emotion: anxiety.   Not taking a risk is the biggest risk Many people “feel” like the saf...

Have you heard the news? There are now Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)! I can hear your head scratching from here but don’t worry. Matt and I are here to break down these new trade floor offerings on this week’s episode and give you the information you need to make an informed decision when it comes to investing in this new product.   What is a Bitcoin ETF? Let’s start by breaking down B...

It’s January. The W-2’s and 1099’s are beginning to roll in. Your tax accountant is chomping at the bit to get your documents so they can begin preparing your returns. Why not take this opportunity to review your financial well-being? Join Matt Robison and me this week as we present a handy checklist of things you should examine every year to reach your financial goals. While it may seem daunting,...