WashingtonWise

Host Mike Townsend focuses a non-partisan eye on news and policies from Washington that impact investors, and his guests offer actionable ideas for your portfolio.

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Using Bonds in a Bull Market

The Fed is cutting interest rates, and the bull market in equities shows no signs of slowing. So where do bonds fit in your portfolio?

November 06, 2025 • Michael Townsend

Take Control of Your Portfolio

The stock market’s bull run keeps going, but so do investors’ emotions. Now is the time to get your plan in shape, take control of your emotions, and keep your portfolio on track.

October 23, 2025

What Could Trip Up Bull Market?

The market has been on a tear since April, undeterred by inflation, tariffs, rising unemployment, and now, the government shutdown. But how long can it shrug off these challenges?

October 09, 2025

Fed's Dilemma: Jobs or Inflation

As the Fed cuts rates while struggling to balance slowing job growth with inflation concerns, the central bank's independence is being tested. What's the impact on investors?

September 25, 2025

Washington Decisions to Watch

Markets are watching for final decisions on several key policy developments rolling out of Washington. How they play out could have a big impact on which way markets move.

September 11, 2025

Is Tariff Pain About to Hit?

Lately the markets and economy have shrugged off tariffs, but that may be changing as new trade deals increase tariffs and companies begin to pass those costs on to consumers.

July 31, 2025

Crypto Goes Mainstream

Institutional adoption, greater regulatory clarity, and a growing awareness of blockchain technology’s potential are powering a shift in acceptance of digital assets. What’s next?

July 17, 2025

Government Policy

One Big Beautiful Bill

The One Big Beautiful Bill being debated in Congress has huge implications for every taxpayer as well as the markets. What’s in the bill, and what will it mean for investors?

June 19, 2025

Fraud Prevention

The Risk of Financial Fraud

Financial fraud often feels like something that only happens to someone else. But we all need to stay vigilant, recognize the latest scams, and take steps to protect our finances.

June 05, 2025

Government Policy

Uncertainty Is Only Sure Thing

Equity investors have been on a roller-coaster ride in 2025. Uncertainty about tariffs, fiscal policy, the jobs market, and the broader economy means that that may not change anytime soon.

May 22, 2025

Government Policy

Bond Market Speaks Loudest

The fluctuating economic environment, tariffs, and the Fed's ongoing challenges keep bond investors wondering where to turn.

May 08, 2025

Government Policy

China Trade War: No Winners

Trade wars come down to each country’s vulnerabilities, resilience, and ability to outlast the other. So how do the U.S. and China stack up?

April 24, 2025

Government Policy

Tariffs Fuel Market Uncertainty

The U.S. markets and economy are at the mercy of tariffs that are rewriting long-standing global trade policy. How can investors keep calm amid extraordinary volatility?

April 11, 2025

Government Policy

Edgy Investors Want Answers

Investors and markets are anxious to see when and how the new Congress will implement the massive Republican policy agenda. But the details matter, and the answers will take time.

January 16, 2025

Government Policy

Worrisome Global Issues

There's no shortage of geopolitical concerns, but do they mean trouble for the U.S. and international markets? Where should investors look for opportunities?

October 03, 2024

Government Policy

Fed's Rate Cut Messaging

As the Fed begins cutting rates, it's important for investors to understand what data the Fed is watching and how that might be a guide to the pace and timing of future actions.

September 19, 2024

Government Policy

Election Reset: What's Next?

In a matter of minutes, the 2024 presidential race changed dramatically, generating lots of speculation and questions. So what are the facts, the next steps, and the timeline?

July 25, 2024

Government Policy

U.S. Economy: A Glass Half Full?

With tried-and-true economic indicators pointing in different directions, what should investors be watching to get a good read on the economy now and the near future?

July 11, 2024

Government Policy

Adopt a Trader Mindset

From the fear of missing out to geopolitical and economic uncertainties, investor emotions are high. The wisdom of a seasoned trader could help you focus on the data and stay on track.

June 27, 2024

Government Policy

Strong Economy But Investor Uncertainty Lingers

Even with a growing economy, falling inflation, and record low unemployment, investors can’t shake concerns about interest rates, the election, and the U.S. debt and deficit.

June 13, 2024

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Markets and Economy Government Policy US
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