The House Takes a Cut

Wall Street can promise dazzling returns, but private equity’s fees, illiquidity, and tax drag may leave investors with far less than the headline number. Don and Tom unpack research showing how ordinary index funds and municipal bonds can deliver comparable after-tax results with much less risk.

Then a startling poll claims many Americans believe stocks only help the richest—and that gambling may beat investing. The hosts push back with the math, then tackle when taxable brokerage accounts belong after retirement savings.

They close with practical answers on international bonds, paying college costs from a 529, and the surprisingly complicated quest for a signed copy of Don’s novel.

03:47 — Private equity promises vs. after-tax reality
10:38 — Do stocks only benefit the top 1%?
13:03 — Gambling or investing: which odds win?
16:36 — Retirement accounts before taxable brokerage
19:47 — Do you need international bonds?
21:08 — The cleanest way to use 529 money
22:32 — A signed copy of The Line Uncrossed?

Questions? Comments? Click!