In Plus episode 512/513, David discusses why he sold his position in the Barings Corporate Investors Fund (MCI). We also compare the yields and tax rules of U.S savings bonds, nominal Treasuries, zero coupon bonds, TIPS, CDs, fixed annuities, and municipal bonds. 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 » 512/513 … [Read more...]
499 Plus: Reducing Savings Bond Exposure, A New Tax Aware ETF, and Did a Tail Risk ETF Work
In Plus episode 499, David shares why he reduced his exposure to Series I Savings Bonds. We briefly look at the recently announced Cambria Tax Aware ETF (TAX). Finally, we analyze the historical performance of the Cambria Tail Risk ETF (TAIL) and compare it to just having a lower allocation in stocks. 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 … [Read more...]
Portfolio Trade: Reducing Series I Savings Bond Exposure
Become a Member If you would like to read about these portfolio trades, consider joining Money For the Rest of Us Plus. Learn More About Membership » David sold some of his allocation to Series I Savings Bonds as the base rate was 0% compared to the market rate of close to 2% for Treasury Inflation Protection Securities. David decided to reduce his exposure in order to raise cash for a potential real estate purchase. Series I Savings Bonds sold in the first five years have a one … [Read more...]
387 Plus: BlockFi Trade, I Bonds, College Savings, and Comparing Funds and ETFs
In Plus episode 387, David explains why he closed his BlockFi Interest Account. We discuss how the level of real rates can help determine whether to buy a Series I Savings bond or a Treasury Inflation Protection Security. We consider how to invest college savings when the student is approaching the time when the funds need to be used. Finally, we look at expenses, tax efficiency, and tracking error to determine which of four S&P 500 ETFs/funds are preferred. Become a … [Read more...]
295 Plus: I Bonds, Pension Lump Sums and Speculating in Art
In Plus episode 295 for the week of April 25, 2020, we walk through the process of buying a Series I Savings Bond. We answer a member's questions about taking a lump sum pension payment and review how that payment is determined. Finally, we review art as a speculation. … [Read more...]
A Complete Guide to Investing in I Bonds and TIPS (2026)
Learn how to invest in inflation-indexed bonds and protect against inflation. ARTICLE TABLE OF CONTENTS (Skip to Section) Which To Invest In NowWhat Are Inflation-Indexed BondsDifferences Between TIPS and I Bonds How I Bonds WorkHow TIPS Work Which To Invest In Now As of August 2026, we recommend Treasury Inflation Protection Securities over Series I Savings Bonds because the real yield on TIPS is 2% compared to a base rate of 0.9% for Series I Savings Bonds. Both TIPS … [Read more...]
