How we measure wealth, riches, abundance, and well-being is more important today than ever. Topics covered include: How late 18th century philosophers Adam Smith and the Earl of Lauderdale defined wealth and the role of capital. Why they worried about income inequality and excess profits What led to the dramatic increase in life expectancy and wealth in the 20th and 21st centuries How a long life expectancy and well-being can be attained at much lower levels of wealth Why … [Read more...]
390 Plus: Why Stock Markets Rise, Analyzing Crowdfunded Real Estate, and Roofstock One
In Plus episode 390, we explore why stock markets generally appreciate over the long-term. We review how to analyze real estate deals sourced from real estate platforms like Crowdstreet. Finally, we review a way to invest in single-family rental homes using tracking stocks available via Roofstock One. … [Read more...]
282: Is GDP the Best Measure of Happiness and Well-Being?
How to Calculate GDP Gross domestic product (GDP) is the monetary value of a nation’s output. Output means the value of goods and services produced over a given period both in nominal terms, but also in real or inflation-adjusted terms. GDP does not measure the number of goods and services produced, but the value of those goods and services in dollars or some other currency. GDP cannot be observed directly. Instead, government statisticians estimate the value of GDP by either calculating … [Read more...]
78: What If the Economy Permanently Stopped Growing
How a zero-growth economy would impact investing, employment and lifestyle. It depends on whether the economy is flat lining due to population shrinkage or a willful choice to be less productive. Photo by J.D. Stein In this episode you'll learn: How economic growth is measured.Why long-term economic growth is tied to population growth and/or productivity growth.How population decline can lead to deflation, stagnating stock markets and falling bond yields.What happens if … [Read more...]
How To Analyze GDP Data Using the U.S. Q1 GDP Release
This video lesson analyzes the First Quarter 2015 U.S. Gross Domestic Product release. The purpose of the video is to show you what I look for in GDP releases as potential indicators for a change in economic trends. The episode length is 28 minutes. … [Read more...]
8: What If Everyone Worked Only Four Hours Per Day?
We can have sustainable economic growth and a thriving stock market while working less and enjoying life more. Photo by amanda tipton In this podcast, you'll learn: What is the true meaning of leisure. Scott and Helen Nearings definition of the Good Life. John Maynard Keynes' prediction of the four hour work day. A fourth, but non-recommended, way to invest. What is socially responsible investing. How we often compartmentalize our financial activities. Can we … [Read more...]