Markets are pulling back as oil prices surge following new developments in the Iran conflict.

Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane break down how rising energy prices are impacting stocks, inflation, and the global economy.

Also covered:

• Why oil is driving markets right now
• The real impact of $4+ gas and rising diesel prices
• Private credit stress and rising redemption pressure
• What the Fed is watching as risks to growth increase

Stocks are rallying—but the economy is still on edge.

Paul Lane and Marc Fandetti break down the forces driving markets higher, and the growing risks tied to oil prices, global conflict, and economic slowdown.

Also covered:

• Why markets are betting on a resolution in the Middle East
• How oil shocks have historically led to recessions
• The risks facing growth, inflation, and Fed policy
• Private credit stress and what it could mean for markets

Stocks are rallying—but markets are being driven by one key factor: oil.

Paul Lane and Marc Fandetti break down a volatile first quarter, rising energy prices, and how the Iran conflict is reshaping expectations for inflation, interest rates, and growth.

Also covered:

• Why markets are reacting to every headline out of the Middle East
• How oil shocks impact both inflation and consumer spending
• The Fed’s shifting outlook on rate cuts
• Sector winners and losers from a turbulent quarter

What’s the best way to leave assets to your children—and what mistakes should you avoid?

In this episode of Ask Todd, Todd Lutsky explains how to protect inheritances, avoid costly tax mistakes, and structure trusts the right way.

Also covered:

• Why gifting assets isn’t always the best strategy
• How to handle special needs beneficiaries properly
• The risks of joint accounts and beneficiary designations
• Smart ways to protect assets from taxes, divorce, and creditors

Markets are rallying—but risks are still building beneath the surface.

Mike and Marc break down a cooling job market, rising concerns about AI replacing jobs, and why traditional “safe havens” like bonds aren’t behaving as expected.

Also covered:

• What new labor data signals about hiring and wage growth
• Why AI fears may be overblown—but still matter
• The hidden risks in the bond market
• Crypto and private credit entering 401(k)s
• Why more Americans are underwater on car loans

Stocks are rising despite ongoing conflict in Iran—but the real story is oil.

With gas back above $4, inflation risks are climbing while demand slows, raising stagflation concerns. At the same time, new labor data shows a cooling job market, with fewer openings and declining worker confidence.

Also covered:

• What markets are watching in the Middle East
• Why oil shocks hit both growth and inflation
• Key signals from the latest jobs data
• Tariffs and rising pressure on small businesses

Stocks are trying to recover after a rough stretch—but rising oil prices, surging diesel costs, and global tensions are keeping pressure on markets.

Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong break down what’s driving today’s market moves, why energy prices—especially diesel—are becoming a major economic risk, and whether private credit could really trigger the next financial crisis.

Plus, a hard look at Social Security: what changes could actually fix the system—and why none of them are politically popular.

Also covered:

• Why diesel prices matter more than gasoline
• The truth about private credit risks vs. 2008
• A realistic plan to fix Social Security shortfalls
• Target date funds and retirement risks you may be missing
• How rising costs—from concerts to everyday life—reflect deeper economic pressures

From markets to retirement planning, this episode cuts through the noise and focuses on what actually matters for your financial future.

Markets head into a shortened trading week facing mounting pressure from Middle East tensions and energy disruptions.

Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong break down what investors should be watching as oil climbs, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely constrained, and global supply chains begin to tighten.

In this hour:

• Why five consecutive down weeks matter for market psychology
• How energy shortages could ripple from Asia to Europe and beyond
• The growing production gap in global oil supply
• Why bonds aren’t providing the relief investors hoped for
• Whether AI optimism and earnings forecasts can truly support stocks

Plus, what this week’s economic data could tell us — and why it may take a backseat to geopolitical risk.

Stocks pulled back as oil prices surged and interest rates remained stubbornly high—raising fresh questions about where markets go next.

Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong break down the biggest forces driving today’s market volatility, including rising energy costs, shifting Fed expectations, and renewed pressure on Big Tech.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why stocks are falling despite stabilizing bond yields
• The impact of rising oil prices on inflation and markets
• How changing interest rate expectations are reshaping the outlook
• What recent court rulings against Meta and Google could mean for tech regulation
• Warning signs emerging in the private credit market
• What to know about the potential SpaceX IPO
• The growing risks—and competition—in online sports betting

Plus, listener questions on retirement strategy, spending psychology, and why prices (especially restaurants) rarely come down.

Stay ahead of the headlines with clear, actionable insight into the economy, markets, and your money.