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Financial Decoder: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Charles Schwab
Cognitive and emotional biases can have a big impact on your financial life. Each episode of Financial Decoder looks closely at one financial decision--and the biases that might cloud your judgment and cost you money. Host Mark Riepe, head of the Schwab Center for Financial Research, decodes the behavioral and psychological factors at play and shares strategies designed to improve the way you approach financial crossroads. Other experts join Mark to provide their unique perspective on behavioral economics, portfolio management, retirement planning, personal finance and more.
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- Aug 17, 202630 min
What Are the Keys to Lowering Financial Stress?
Financial stress can affect anyone, regardless of income. In this episode, Mark talks with Cindy Scott about the emotional side of money and explores practical strategies for reducing financial anxiety through planning, perspective, and better decision-making. They discuss how financial habits are formed, why stress can lead to costly mistakes, and how building financial resilience can help you stay focused on your long-term goals. After you listen: Read Cindy Scott's article "5 Steps to Help Lower Your Financial Stress" for practical strategies to help you manage financial anxiety and build confidence. Explore the Schwab Money Talk series for insights on financial planning, investing, retirement, and other everyday money topics. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0826-WTP3 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Aug 3, 202613 min
How Do IRAs Actually Work?
Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are one of the most widely used retirement savings vehicles, yet many investors are unsure how they work. Mark Riepe breaks down IRA basics, including traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, contribution limits, tax advantages, withdrawal rules, and eligibility requirements. He also explains key differences between IRA types and offers a framework for evaluating which option may fit your retirement-planning goals. Whether you're opening your first IRA or comparing retirement account options, this episode provides a practical guide to understanding the fundamentals. After you listen: Read the article "What Is an IRA? Traditional, Roth, and Other Types of IRAs." Learn more about IRAs and what to consider for your retirement planning. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Roth IRA conversions require a 5-year holding period before earnings can be withdrawn tax free and subsequent conversions will require their own 5-year holding period. In addition, earnings distributions prior to age 59 1/2 are subject to an early withdrawal penalty. Withdrawals and distributions of taxable amounts are subject to ordinary income tax and, if made prior to age 59½, may be subject to an additional 10% federal income tax penalty, sometimes referred to as an additional income tax. You generally have to start taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) no later than April 1st of the year following the calendar year you reach age 73 or retire, whichever is later. If you were born on or before June 30, 1949, the required minimum distribution age is 70½. If you were born after June 30, 1949 and before January 1, 1951, the required minimum distribution age is 72. If you own 5% or more of the business sponsoring the Plan, other provisions may apply. Refer to your Plan document for details. However, you are not required to take a minimum distribution from your Roth accounts during your lifetime. A rollover of retirement plan assets to an IRA is not your only option. Carefully consider all of your available options, which may include but not be limited to keeping your assets in your former employer's plan; rolling over assets to a new employer's plan; or taking a cash distribution (taxes and possible withdrawal penalties may apply). Prior to a decision, be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider factors such as differences in investment-related expenses, plan or account fees, available investment options, distribution options, legal and creditor protections, the availability of loan provisions, tax treatment, and other concerns specific to your individual circumstances. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0826-RTYC Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Jul 20, 202634 min
What's Really Driving Your Portfolio Decisions?
Making smart portfolio decisions require more than just choosing investments. It requires managing your own behavior. Mark speaks with Schwab Wealth Advisory's Chief Portfolio Strategist Kasey McCurdy about how emotions influence investing decisions and why investors often struggle with rebalancing, diversification, and staying invested during market volatility. Along the way, they share practical ways to approach portfolio construction and avoid common behavioral investing pitfalls. After you listen: Learn how a goals-based approach to investing can help you build and manage a portfolio with Schwab Wealth Advisory™. Check out Schwab's resources on portfolio management for more about diversification, rebalancing, and other long-term investing strategies. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Diversification, asset allocation, and rebalancing strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets. Rebalancing may cause investors to incur transaction costs and, when a non-retirement account is rebalanced, taxable events may be created that may affect your tax liability. There are risks associated with investing in dividend paying stocks, including but not limited to the risk that stocks may reduce or stop paying dividends. Schwab Wealth Advisory™ ("SWA") is a non‐discretionary investment advisory program sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab Wealth Advisory, Inc. ("SWAI") is a Registered Investment Adviser and provides portfolio management for the SWA program. Schwab and SWAI are affiliates and are subsidiaries of The Charles Schwab Corporation. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0726-GHDM Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Jul 6, 202620 min
What Can America's First 250 Years Teach Us?
What can America's first 250 years teach investors? In this special Independence Day episode, Mark Riepe examines key moments in U.S. economic and financial history, including national debt, inflation, currency, taxation, tariffs, and personal finance. Through stories spanning the Revolutionary War to the 20th century, he highlights the people, policies, and financial decisions that helped shape the nation—and the lessons they still offer today. After you listen: Curious how today's policy debates connect to the markets? Listen to the WashingtonWise podcast for Mike Townsend's analysis of the issues shaping investors' decisions. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0726-89T4 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Jun 22, 202632 min
Could a Trust Fit Your Estate Plan?
Trusts can be a powerful estate planning tool, but many people overlook them or assume they’re only for the wealthy. This episode breaks down how trusts work, including key differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts and their role in probate, asset management, and control. It also explores when a trust might make sense based on your goals, family needs, and financial situation. If you’re building an estate plan, understanding trusts can help you make more informed decisions. After you listen: Find more of Schwab's educational resources on trusts. Learn more about estate planning from Austin Jarvis. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. This general information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal, or investment planning advice and is not intended to be construed as tax advice. This information cannot be used for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed under the Internal Revenue Code or applicable state or local tax law provisions. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, Schwab recommends consulting with a qualified tax professional, CPA, financial planner, investment manager , or estate attorney>. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0626-0RM3 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Jun 8, 202618 min
How Do You Offer Financial Guidance to a College Grad?
Giving financial guidance to a college grad can be challenging, especially when advice is unsolicited or poorly timed. In this episode, host Mark Riepe is joined by returning guest, Patrick Means, to break down how to help new graduates make smarter financial and investing decisions by focusing on communication, not just content. Discover how to frame advice around a young adult's goals, avoid common pitfalls, and address behavioral biases such as procrastination and exponential growth bias. Plus learn the foundational habits that set college grads up for long-term financial success, from budgeting to investing. After you listen: Find more educational resources at Schwab Moneywise Teens. Learn more about the Schwab Teen Investing Account. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. For important information on the Schwab Teen Investor™ account, including restrictions and limitations, go to schwab.com/teen-account. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. All corporate names and market data shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0626-U822 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Apr 27, 202620 min
How Can You Plan Beyond Next Year's Tax Bill?
After you listen: Check out "Tax Basics: How to Plan Year-Round." Find more financial-planning resources on Schwab's Insights & Education site. On this episode, Mark Riepe examines why investors often approach taxes with a short-term mindset and how that can undermine long-term financial outcomes. Mark is joined by Hayden Adams, director of tax planning and wealth management research at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, to explore the difference between tax preparation and year-round tax planning. They discuss how tax aversion and loss aversion can distort decisions around investing, account selection, and retirement distributions, often leading people to prioritize minimizing today's tax bill over maximizing lifetime after-tax wealth. The conversation emphasizes the value of taking a longer view on taxes and integrating them thoughtfully into broader financial-planning decisions. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Schwab does not provide tax advice. Clients should consult a professional tax advisor for their tax advice needs. This information is not a specific recommendation, individualized Tax advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager, Estate Attorney) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0426-86DA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
- Apr 13, 202611 min
What Do Both Sides of an Inheritance Need to Consider?
After you listen: For estate planners, read more about "3 Ways to Pass Down a Home." For heirs, read more about "Dos and Don'ts When You Get an Inheritance." This episode of Financial Decoder explores inheritance from both perspectives: the person planning to pass on wealth and the heir receiving it. Host Mark Riepe examines the financial and emotional factors that influence inheritance decisions, including planning considerations, family dynamics, and timing. The discussion emphasizes thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and avoiding rushed decisions during periods of transition. Listeners gain practical guidance for navigating inheritance planning and managing new wealth with intention and care. Financial Decoder is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/FinancialDecoder. If you enjoy the show, please leave us a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Reach out to Mark on X @MarkRiepe with your thoughts on the show. Follow Financial Decoder on Spotify to comment on episodes. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 0426-2S47 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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About Financial Decoder
Cognitive and emotional biases can have a big impact on your financial life. Each episode of Financial Decoder looks closely at one financial decision--and the biases that might cloud your judgment and cost you money. Host Mark Riepe, head of the Schwab Center for Financial Research, decodes the behavioral and psychological factors at play and shares strategies designed to improve the way you approach financial crossroads. Other experts join Mark to provide their unique perspective on behavioral economics, portfolio management, retirement planning, personal finance and more.
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