Shows
The Cents of ThingsEpisode 93 - The Economics of Tariffs: History, Impact, and Current TrendsUnderstanding Tariffs: Historical Context and Modern ImplicationsIn this episode of the Cents of Things podcast, hosts Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang dive into the topic of tariffs, exploring their historical context and their application in modern economics. Ron provides insights on notable tariffs in U.S. history, such as the 1789 tariff post-Revolutionary War and Obama's 35% tariff on Chinese tire imports. The discussion also touches on the repercussions of tariffs, including consumer costs and international trade dynamics. Additionally, the episode includes light-hearted segments on common financial missteps like online shopping under the influence...2025-02-1320 min
The Cents of ThingsEpisode 92 - Navigating Economic Shifts Amid New Administration ChangeEconomic Highlights and Hilarious T-Shirts: February Market UpdatesIn this episode of 'Cents of Things,' Jeff hosts solo as Ron attends an event. Jeff delivers a fun blend of economic updates and quirky t-shirt humor. The show covers the implications of the new administration's fast-paced policies on the markets, surprising employment and manufacturing reports, and fluctuations in petroleum inventories. Jeff also discusses the potential impacts of the government hiring freeze and buyout packages on the employment landscape. The episode wraps up with insights into early-year market performances and the expected volatility amid...2025-02-0618 min
The Cents of ThingsEpisode 91: Earnings Season Breakdown: Key Indicators & Tech Sector SurprisesEarnings Season Insights and Market Reactions: Navigating Tragedy, Indicators, and Tech TrendsIn this episode of the Cents of Things podcast, hosts Jeff and Ron open with the tragic news of a plane crash in Washington, D.C., involving the U.S. skating team. They extend their heartfelt condolences to the affected families. The conversation then shifts to the latest on the Federal Reserve's unchanged policy and its market implications. The hosts delve into the nuances of automated trading and its impact on market volatility. They also share humorous anecdotes and tackle a range of market topics...2025-01-3126 min
The Cents of ThingsThe Inauguration's Impact: Market Predictions and Challenges | COT 89Market Movements and Geopolitical Impacts: Pre-Inauguration InsightsIn this episode of 'The Cents of Things' podcast, Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang dive into the potential market movements and geopolitical impacts as the US approaches a presidential inauguration. They discuss the anticipation surrounding executive orders, historical precedents, and the possible market effects. The hosts also touch on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Ukraine-Russia negotiations, and the role of tariffs in international trade. They examine the prospects for energy independence, persistent interest rates, and offer insightful opinions on electric vehicles and renewable energy. Stay tuned for a comprehensive analysis of current...2025-01-1917 min
The Cents of ThingsSector Performance Update, Magnificant 7, P/E Trends and Revenue Surprises | COT 88Sector Performance Predictions, Magnificent 7 successors, P/E Trends, and Revenue SurprisesIn this episode of the Cents of Things podcast, hosts Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang discuss economic trends, sector performances, and financial planning insights for 2024. They delve into the potential leadership changes in the stock market, PE trends, and notable revenue surprises. The conversation also touches on regional differences in weather and infrastructure, the implications of increasing bankruptcy rates, and the disconnect between revenue growth and earnings. The episode aims to equip listeners with practical knowledge and trends to enhance their financial decision-making.00:00 Introduction t...2025-01-1719 min
The Cents of ThingsDiving into 2025: From Financial Trends to Professional Pillow Fighting | COT 86Exploring Economic Trends and the Rise of Unusual SportsIn this episode of the Sense of Things podcast, hosts Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang discuss notable bankruptcies from the past year, economic activity, and the peculiar world of alternative sports. They delve into unconventional sports like slapping contests and the Pillow Fighting Championship, revealing the sponsorships and peculiarities of these events. The hosts also touch on the millennial shift away from alcohol consumption, the impact of M&A activity during the Biden administration, and future economic predictions. Tune in for a mix of finance insights and humor.2025-01-0919 min
The Cents of ThingsReflections and Forecasts: Saying Goodbye to President Carter | COT 86Kicking Off the New Year with Economic Insights and Remembering President CarterIn this episode of the 'Cents of Things' podcast, hosts Jeff Kickel and Ron Lang start the new year with reflections on their holiday experiences and a heartfelt tribute to President Jimmy Carter, sharing lesser-known facts about his life and legacy. They also dive deep into current economic indicators and forecasts, discussing job claims, non-farm payrolls, and the Federal Reserve's potential actions. The conversation touches on the rising cost of living, credit card debt, and the sustainability of consumer spending. The hosts emphasize the importance...2025-01-0917 min
The Cents of ThingsTop 10 Economic Indicators Every Investor Should FollowBreaking Down Economic Indicators and Financial Strategies with Jeff Kickel and Ron LangIn this episode of the Cents of Things podcast, hosts Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang delve into financial planning, the state of the stock market, and the current economic climate. They share insights on upcoming presidential debates and their potential impacts on the market, discuss peculiar historical facts like Burger King's 'Whopper Wine' and quirks from 'The Wizard of Oz' film. The duo also explores the highs and lows of investing in sectors like solar energy, the nuances of managing retirement funds, and the...2024-06-2817 min
The Cents of ThingsLipstick Recession and Wind Turbine Woes: Unpacking Economic TrendsLipstick Recession and Wind Turbine Woes: Unpacking Economic Trends | Cents of ThingsIn today's episode, the Cents of Things team dives into the latest economic indicators and market analysis with Ron. The discussion starts with a lighthearted critique of the upcoming political season and presidential debates, followed by intriguing historical facts about 'The Wizard of Oz' and Burger King's Whopper wine. They then explore the high levels of the current market, factors affecting it, and potential risks. Solar energy and its industry challenges are also reviewed, capped with a look into unconventional economic indicators like the lipstick...2024-06-2820 min
The Cents of ThingsCracks in the Consumer? CPI Trends, Dollar Store Competition, and Pizza Hut's RevivalRon shares intriguing insights about the market trends, including the dominance of top stocks and Apple's market cap bump. Jeff delves into the CPI data, highlighting the rising costs in electricity, transportation services, and shelter. The discussion also touches on the unique retail landscape in small towns, focusing on Dollar General's presence and the investment by Yum! Brands in Pizza Hut.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on various topics affecting the economy and everyday life. Don't forget to subscribe to the channel, leave your feedback, and stay tuned for more engaging episodes!2024-06-2123 min
The Cents of ThingsNVIDIA Mania and Market Valuations: A Deep DiveWelcome to another episode of The Cents of Things with Ron and Jeff! In this episode, we dive into the world of finance, discussing the latest economic trends, the market mania surrounding NVIDIA, and some interesting historical facts. We cover everything from the valuation of tech giants to the divergence in economic indicators.Join us as we analyze the Chicago business barometer, ISM manufacturing data, job openings, and labor turnover statistics. We will also touch on the recent surprises in government job hiring and ADP unemployment numbers.Tune in for insightful discussions, market insights, and...2024-06-1118 min
The Cents of ThingsThe Economy Unveiled: Soft Landings, Icebergs, and Retirement TrendsIs the economy headed for a "Soft Landing" or an Iceberg? In this episode, we dive into the world of Florida men with some hilarious and bizarre stories. From cleaning houses to time-traveling attempts, Florida men never fail to entertain.Then, we focus on the economy, discussing whether we are heading for a soft landing or an iceberg. Jeff and Ron analyze key indicators like job openings, non-farm payrolls, inflation, and home prices to provide insights into the current economic landscape.The discussion also touches on the trend of "unretiring," where older workers are rejoining...2024-06-1123 min