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. Become a Member If you would like to listen to this … [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: Show Notes Is Japan finally becoming a "normal" economy?—The Financial Times Broken Money by Lyn Alden A Complete Guide to Understanding and Protecting Against Inflation—Money for the Rest of Us Episode Sponsors LinkedIn Jobs – Use this link to post your job for free on LinkedIn Jobs NetSuite … [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. Become a Member If you would like to listen to this episode of Money For the Rest of Us Plus, you can do so by becoming a Money For the Rest of Us Plus member. Learn More About Membership Options » 462 Plus Investments … [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: Show Notes Wall St blames missteps at FedEx as parcel service fails to deliver Steff Chávez and Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson—Financial Times The Global Dollar Cycle by Maurice Obstfeld and Haonan Zhou, BPEA Conference Drafts, September 8–9, 2022—Brookings Papers on Economic … [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 … [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 storage … [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. 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 Soros made $1 billion shorting the … [Read more...]
