Description

First aired on 1/17/2026

• Inflation: Direction Over Headlines — Inflation continues to cool (≈2.7%), moving closer to long-term expectations. In a world of noise, disciplined monitoring remains superior to reactionary shifts.
• AI as a Tool, Not an Oracle — AI excels at accelerating understanding and organizing data, but it cannot replace human judgment or the responsibility of stewardship in high-stakes decisions.
• The “Decide First” Rule — Before price shopping for major life moments, the decision must pass a filter: Is the timing intentional or emotional? Clarity should always precede action.
• Structure Over Sticker Price — For significant commitments—like international travel or home projects—the structure (timing, terms, and flexibility) often dictates the true value more than the headline price.

Join Allan Malina on Purpose Driven Finances as he explains why life’s “Big Moments” require a disciplined process over emotional impulse. Explore 2026 inflation realities, the proper role of AI in financial planning, and the "Price Band Method" for better stewardship.

Modern finance is often dominated by noise—inflation headlines, AI hype cycles, and speculative narratives. In this briefing, Allan Malina, founder of Servus Capital Management, cuts through the static to refocus listeners on stewardship over speculation.

The episode unfolds in two movements. First, Allan provides a measured perspective on current economic signals, including cooling inflation and labor-market shifts. Second, the conversation transitions into a tactical guide for navigating life’s “Big Moments.” Whether you are planning a complex trip or a major renovation, the process remains the same: decide first, shop second. Allan introduces the Price Band Method and shares practical AI prompts to help you analyze costs without losing sight of long-term purpose and risk.

FAQ

What is the “Price Band Method” for big purchases? Rather than chasing the lowest price (which often hides trade-offs) or the highest price (which often includes "ego premiums"), focus on the middle 60% of the market. Use two to three reputable sources to establish a realistic range. The internet provides data; it does not provide a recommendation.

Is there an AI bubble in 2026? Certain segments, such as large-cap tech and AI-adjacent energy, have attracted significant capital. A disciplined investor looks beyond narratives to the underlying infrastructure and cash flows. We emphasize a process-driven approach over market predictions.

How should I use AI when planning major expenses? Use AI to compare total costs and trade-offs. It is an excellent tool to accelerate your understanding of a market, but it should not replace the final judgment of a steward.

Allan Malina is a fiduciary financial advisor and the Founder of Servus Capital Management in Forest, Virginia. With a career grounded in quantitative discipline, Allan specializes in purpose-driven financial planning for retirees and mission-aligned organizations throughout the Lynchburg region. He views money as a tool to serve life and values, helping clients navigate each financial season with calm, measured leadership.