Down the Middle

Oct 31 2024 67 ep. 15 mins 133
Down the Middle Podcast artwork

Down the Middle is a monthly podcast series where Creative Planning President, Peter Mallouk, and Director of Financial Education, Jonathan Clements, discuss recent market events, Creative Planning's investment philosophy, give monthly tips and more.

  Business  Education
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Financial Moves to Consider Before Year-End

Oct 31 2024 12 mins  
With just two months left in 2024, time is limited to make important decisions affecting your tax bill, retirement contributions and more. Peter and Jonathan share the potential benefits of tax-loss harvesting, Roth conversions, donor-advised funds, flexible spending accounts and other key planning strategies to consider implementing before year-end. Plus, hear why bringing up fina

Don't Let Uncertainty Derail Your Portfolio

Sep 30 2024 12 mins  
Almost two years into the current stock market rally, worries over the economy, interest rates and this year’s presidential election have many investors feeling on edge. Peter and Jonathan give their take on why some investors have trouble sticking with their long-term asset allocation (and how media narratives contribute). Plus, learn why you should audit your cell phone app set

What's "Normal" for the Stock Market?

Aug 29 2024 14 mins  
The stock market had a rough start in August after a mostly calm year. But what’s considered “normal”? Peter and Jonathan answer this question and discuss why all risk isn’t rewarded in this month’s episode. Plus, learn what you should do when you have a concentrated stock position and why now’s a worse time than usual to be sitting on cash.

A Game Plan for Giving

Jul 31 2024 11 mins  
Gifting and charitable giving are great ways to make an impact. But how should you determine which people and causes to support? This month, Peter and Jonathan discuss how to become intentional about your giving. Plus, learn the benefits of establishing a donor-advised fund and why you might consider funding a Roth IRA for your teen.

A Life Update

Jun 28 2024 12 mins  
In this episode of Down the Middle, Peter Mallouk takes on the role of interviewer as Jonathan Clements shares a significant life update. Through their personal and candid conversation, listeners will gain both an inspirational outlook and practical advice.

Raising Money-Savvy Kids

May 29 2024 13 mins  
“Do as I say, not as I do” doesn’t work in most scenarios — and it certainly doesn’t work when teaching children about finances. Join Peter and Jonathan as they share personal stories and practical financial literacy lessons that can help the next generation learn fiscal responsibility.

Unlocking the Secrets of Retirement

Apr 30 2024 13 mins  
Pave a clear path to a happy retirement by considering often overlooked elements of retirement planning on this episode of Down the Middle with Peter Mallouk and Jonathan Clements. Plus, learn about mortgage recasting and when it may be beneficial for you to consider it.

Is Cash Trash?

Mar 29 2024 13 mins  
Join Peter and Jonathan as they explore how to determine the optimal balance between cash equivalents and other investments. While cash may be appealing to investors in the short term, learn why attempting to time the market isn’t advisable and gain valuable insights to help enhance your long-term investment strategy. Plus, explore whether a revocable living trust is the right ch

A Book for Everyone

Feb 27 2024 9 mins  
Investing may seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. This month, Peter and Jonathan dive into several major themes featured in Peter’s latest book, Money, Simplified. From home bias to market optimism, this discussion offers key takeaways for novice and savvy investors alike. Plus, discover why tax diversification of your retirement portfolio may give you added flexibilit

Remarkable Market Resilience

Jan 30 2024 12 mins  
As we witness unexpected market resilience and experience all-time highs for the first time in two years, many investors find themselves uncertain about their next steps. Join Peter and Jonathan as they dissect the driving force behind our recession-free status and explore not only the impact of political elections on markets but also the challenges of forecasting in an efficient m