Why Gas Prices Are Up but Markets Are Booming

Gas prices are up, household budgets are under pressure, and yet markets keep hitting record highs. Why are Wall Street and Main Street telling two completely different stories? In this episode of The P.A.S. Report Podcast, Professor Nick Giordano sits down with investment banker, economist, and author of 2008: What Really Happened, Todd Sheets to break down the disconnect between surging gas prices, record-high markets, the Iran conflict, and America's economic future. From the Strait of Hormuz to China's rare earth leverage, from AI-driven growth to the household squeeze, this conversation explains why the economy looks strong on paper while many Americans still feel like they're falling behind. What You'll Learn The Market Disconnect: Why gas prices are rising while stocks and markets continue to climb  The Iran Factor: How the conflict with Iran and the Strait of Hormuz impact oil prices, energy markets, and your wallet  Checkmating China: Why U.S. energy dominance could weaken China's global economic leverage  The Wealth Effect vs. Reality: Why strong macro numbers feel disconnected from Americans struggling with housing, insurance, food, and grocery costs  A New Economic Boom: Why Todd Sheets believes America may be on the verge of a long-term growth cycle driven by AI, resource development, and better economic policy  📲 Subscribe, listen, and share The P.A.S. Report Podcast to stay informed on the latest political issues shaping America.  Timestamps 00:00 Why Americans Are Worried About the Economy 01:03 Why Markets Are Booming During the Iran Crisis 04:14 How Gas Prices Are Crushing Household Budgets 07:54 Could Regime Change in Iran Reshape the Economy? 11:34 How the Middle East Is Changing Before Our Eyes 15:30 China, Rare Earths, and U.S. Energy Dominance 18:01 Why America Isn't Tapping Its Own Resources 21:48 Strong Economy, Weak Consumer Confidence 25:24 Will AI Create a New American Economic Boom? 🔔 Subscribe for More: 📖 Sign up for The P.A.S. Report newsletter at https://pasreport.com 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform! Follow The P.A.S. Report: 📱 X, YouTube, Instagram: @PasReport Share this episode and join the conversation!