This week on Plus episode 516, we analyze two new Vanguard Ultra Short Term Bond ETFs. We also look at two ETF options for investing in shorter-term non-U.S. bonds. Finally, we consider a closed-end fund that invests in non-U.S. dividend-paying stocks while writing covered call options. Please note the ticker symbol for the BlackRock Enhanced International Dividend Trust is BGY, not BGI, as was said several times in the episode. … [Read more...]
475: Inflation’s Illusion: Debunking the Normalcy of Currency Debasement
It is not normal to want prices to rise and currencies to lose their purchasing power. We look at the advantages of stable currencies and prices. Topics covered include: What's more normal, an inflationary or deflationary mindset? Why it is more normal for prices to fall due to productivity increases How central banks seek to overcome productivity-induced deflation by increasing the money supply How inflation and ongoing currency debasement encourage debt, the … [Read more...]
462 Plus: Immediate Annuities, More on Closed-End Funds, and Currency ETFs
In Plus episode 462, we review why one might want to buy an immediate annuity to help fund retirement expenses. We consider the Cohen & Steers Closed End Opportunity Fund (FOF). Finally, we discuss using an ETF to speculate on currencies. … [Read more...]
404: Why Is the U.S. Dollar So Strong? Will It Continue?
What has caused the U.S. dollar's currency exchange rate to be the strongest in twenty years? How a strong dollar leads to slower global economic growth and falling asset prices. Topics covered include: Why a strong dollar is a no-win situation for the rest of the world Why have inflation and interest rates increased Why recession risks are rising as central banks combat inflation Why asset prices fall when interest rates rise What would cause the U.S. dollar to weaken … [Read more...]
380 Plus: Why the Japanese Yen Is Falling and a Follow Up on Simplify ETFs including PFIX
In Plus Episode 380, we explore what is causing the Japanese yen to decline relative to the dollar and how that has hurt unhedged investments in the Japanese stock market including Japanese ETFs in the model portfolio examples. We consider if and what investors could do. We also revisit the Simplify Interest Rate Hedge ETF (PFIX) and whether investors should take profits. Finally, we look at some of the challenges stock ETFs that offer downside protection through options strategies. … [Read more...]
364: Should You Hedge Your International Stock Exposure Against Currency Fluctuations?
How to decide whether it is worth it to hedge currency exposure when investing outside of your home country. Topics covered include: How currency exchange rates impact investment returnsWhat factors impact currency exchange ratesWhat are carry trades and how do they influence exchange ratesHow currency forward contracts workHow ETFs and funds hedge currency exposureWhat to consider when deciding whether to hedge foreign currency exposure Show Notes Rising U.S. yields push yen … [Read more...]
352: Is This the Key to Wealth, Freedom, and Happiness?
How owning fewer, more permanent things can lead to greater freedom and continued economic growth. Topics covered include: How a railroad company issued a bond that matured in 999 yearsWhy land and gold are the most permanent investmentsWhat is the oldest currency in useWhy fiat and cryptocurrencies are potentially worthlessWhy permanence is freedom and constantly craving more things limits freedomWhy do quality goods cost moreHow the volume of trash generation and the number of … [Read more...]
236 Plus: January 2019 Mid Month Update, Corporate Bonds and Retirement Currency Risk
This Plus episode for the week of January 19, 2019 includes a mid month update on investment conditions. We consider how sharply corporate credit ratings can be downgraded to junk after a company runs into trouble rather than beforehand. Finally, we answer a member's question who has savings and earning in a currency that is different from where he tends to retire. … [Read more...]
Is A Dollar Collapse Coming?
Will stagflation cause the dollar to crash and be a bottomless pit when the next recession hits? That is what Peter Schiff is predicting. We look at where he is right and where he seems to be off the mark when it comes to the U.S. economy and a dollar collapse. In this episode you’ll learn: Is an economic recession overdue? Why running ongoing trade deficits leads to higher private sector debt balances. Why interest rates and savings is not too low. Why the U.S. … [Read more...]
214: Should You Trade Currencies (Forex) Like Soros?
How the foreign exchange market works and how George Soros made more than $1 billion shorting the British pound in 1992. Why currency trading today is more like gambling than when Soros made his billions. Why trading closed end funds can be more profitable than currency trading. Photo by Central European University In this episode you’ll learn: How does foreign exchange trading work and why is it like gambling.Who are the principal players in the foreign exchange market.How George … [Read more...]
