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.
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.
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?
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?
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.
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.
Government Policy
Bond Market Speaks Loudest
The fluctuating economic environment, tariffs, and the Fed's ongoing challenges keep bond investors wondering where to turn.
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?
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?
Government Policy
Bond Markets Digest New Policies
Rapid policy changes are fueling rising prices and slowing economic growth, raising concerns in the bond markets. How can fixed income investors navigate these challenges
Government Policy
Market Turmoil: More Than Tariffs
Tariffs may be at the forefront of today's market concerns, but they are far from the only drivers of the ongoing market turbulence.
Government Policy
Prepare for Uncertain Times
Investor anxiety is on the rise as waves of changes continue to roll out of Washington. What are the best steps to take now to gain control over your financial life?
Government Policy
Tariff Clouds Hover Over Markets
As tariffs proliferate, they bring new concerns for the economy, including inflation, supply chain interruption, and job losses. What do investors need to know?
Government Policy
Riding the Bond Market Waves
Fast-paced policy changes out of Washington are roiling the bond market, leading fixed income investors to wrestle with whether they should buy, hold, or sell.
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.
Government Policy
Policy Disruption & 2025 Markets
The new administration promises disruptive policies on immigration, tariffs, taxes, deregulation and more. But how will markets and investors respond to these policy changes?
Government Policy
Realities of Campaign Promises
The reality of the economy, inflation, debt, and global pressures will present challenges as the next administration looks to implement sweeping promises from the campaign trail.
Government Policy
Is U.S. Bond Market Appealing?
Worried about portfolio volatility but think you missed the peak opportunity for bonds? Find out what's happening in the bond markets and how you can still capture a good rate.
Government Policy
Planning for Social Security
Your Social Security contributions can total hundreds of thousands of dollars over your career. How can you make focused decisions to maximize and protect your future benefits?
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?
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?