Why So High?

Despite lousy headlines—tariffs, weak earnings, flat revenues—the market keeps climbing. Don and Tom explain why trying to guess the “why” behind short-term moves is a fool’s errand, and why global diversification (including those long-shunned international small caps) is paying off. Listeners call in with smart, complex questions: million-dollar leftover 529s, the viability of the Hagerty Index for collectibles, catastrophic long-term care insurance, and a 401(k) loan vs. credit union loan for home repairs. The show wraps with heartfelt praise, a Mitch Albom-inspired moment, and confirmation: yes, listeners are thinking differently—and smarter—about money.

0:04 Market’s up, headlines are down—why? No one knows, and that’s the point

1:15 The caffeinated squirrel rally and your brother’s market anxiety

2:55 The market looks ahead—it’s not reacting to the news you just read

5:12 Global diversification pays off: international small cap value shines

7:20 Caller: Million-dollar 529 leftovers—can kids gift unused funds to parents?

11:46 Most impressive 529 balance ever? Don and Tom are stunned

12:08 Caller: Classic car prices collapse—HAGI Index and collectible declines

15:19 Watches, comics, wine, art—all taking hits. Even Beanie Babies.

16:03 Caller: What’s the timeline after submitting a financial plan request?

19:00 Tangled web of accounts—Brooke (aka Sherry) needs a full portfolio untangling

20:42 Don’s family vacation: heat, pools, and a surprising Disney dinner treat

22:03 Disney Springs’ Boathouse = #2 grossing restaurant in the U.S.

23:19 Caller: Long-term care worries and catastrophic coverage that doesn’t exist

25:30 Hybrid insurance pitches: Why you should be skeptical

29:54 The reality of LTC premiums and why investing might be the better route

30:03 A Mitch Albom moment: A caller’s touching message on the power of good advice

31:57 Caller: 401(k) loan vs. signature loan to fund $8K home repair

35:51 Caller: 2 years cancer-free—celebrating health and financial proactivity

36:58 Caller: What’s the ideal retirement savings multiple by age 60?
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