In this livestream recorded July 15, 2026, David gives his quarterly check-in on AI, including what it does well, where it still falls short, and what its massive capital spending means for jobs, stocks, and the economy. He then answers listener questions on the dollar, crypto, central bank digital currencies, and managing the model portfolios. Topics covered include: 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 … [Read more...]
559 Plus: Diversified Income Model Portfolio Change and a Portfolio Trade
In Plus episode 559, we discuss the decision to eliminate convertible bonds from the Diversified Income Model Portfolio, increase equity REITs, lower exposure to preferred stocks and option income, and add exposure to managed futures and catastrophe bonds. We also discuss why David sold his position in the Bitwise Solana ETF (BSOL). 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 … [Read more...]
542 Plus: Why Always ChatGPT, Selling Gold, Model Portfolio Answers, and Funding a Short-term Liability
In Plus episode 542, David shares why he often uses ChatGPT for his AI examples. He discusses his recent trade to sell some gold. He explains the rationale for the small-cap stock ETFs used in the model portfolios, why equity REITs were moved to the Income portfolio, and how similar the new bond ETFs are to the mutual funds they replaced. Finally, we discuss managing FOMO and funding short-term liabilities. Become a Member If you would like to listen to this episode of Money For the Rest … [Read more...]
541 Plus: Asset Class Returns for the Past Decade, Emerging Markets Local Bonds, and a Model Portfolio Question
In Plus episode 541, we review the Money for the Rest of Us Plus asset class return assumptions from a decade ago to see how our predictions turned out. We look at how to invest in emerging markets local currency bonds and the reasons for doing so. Finally, we answer a member's question on the model portfolios. 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 … [Read more...]
537 Plus: Adaptive Model Fixed Income Portfolio, A New Factor Rotation International Equity ETF, and Holding Meta Stock
In Plus episode 537, we compare the performance and structure of the Adaptive Model Fixed Income portfolios to that of the broader bond market, such as the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND). We answer a member's question on the DoubleLine Flexible Income Fund. We review the new iShares International Equity Factor Rotation Active ETF (IDYN). Finally, we address a member's question regarding a large position in Meta that he received from his former employer. Become a Member If you … [Read more...]
463 Plus: Model Portfolios, UK versus US Valuations, MCI Premium, and MFD Proxy Battle
In Plus Episode 463, we answer member questions on model portfolio implementations. We discuss the valuations and return expectations for UK stocks versus the USA. We discuss why the Barings Corporate Investor Fund (MCI) sells at a premium to its net asset value. Finally, we analyze the proxy battle being led by Saba Capital regarding the potential merger involving the Macquarie/First Trust Global Infrastructure/Utilities Dividend & Income Fund (MFD) Become a Member If you … [Read more...]
434 Plus: Model Portfolios Overview, Why DFJ, and Icahn Enterprises Follow Up
In Plus episode 434, we review the Money For the Rest of Us Plus model portfolios, their history and how they are used. We discuss why the WisdomTree Japan Small Cap Dividend ETF (DFJ) is included in the models. Finally, we discuss what has transpired with Icahn Enterprises (IEP) since the release of episode 422 on Carl Ichan. 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 … [Read more...]
391 Plus: Adaptive Model Portfolio Changes, Updated Return and Risk Assumptions, and the Peak Housing REIT
In Plus episode 391, we review the recent adaptive model portfolio changes to reduce equity exposure and lower credit risk in the bond portfolio. We introduce the new expected return and risk assumptions and address some member questions. Finally, we answer a member's question about selling a single-family rental home and rolling the proceeds into the Peak Housing REIT. 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 … [Read more...]
372 Plus: Model Portfolios History, Performance, and Modified Endowment Contracts
In Plus Episode 372, we look at the purpose of the model portfolios, how they have evolved, and the historical performance. We also answer some member questions about the model portfolio changes in early January to reduce equity REIT exposures and eliminate preferred stocks. Finally, we explore life insurance policies that are classified as modified endowment contracts. 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 … [Read more...]
343 Plus: Mid Month Update, Adaptive Model Portfolio Changes, and Preferred Stocks
In Plus Episode 343, we review the latest data including Federal Reserve minutes and Japan's economic challenges. We discuss the recent adaptive model portfolio changes, the new holdings, and the rationale for the changes given the increased risk of higher inflation. Finally, we review why preferred stocks have tended to outperform bonds during periods of rising interest rates. Become a Member If you would like to listen to this episode of Money For the Rest of Us Plus, you can do … [Read more...]
