02.03.2026 Ask An Advisor With Wes Moss - The Clark Howard Podcast Recap

Podcast: The Clark Howard Podcast

Published: 2026-02-03

Duration: 34 minutes

Guests: Wes Moss

Summary

Wes Moss explains the current state of the US dollar and why its decline is not alarming, emphasizing the strength of the US economy. He addresses the top retirement fear of running out of money and offers a five-step plan to alleviate financial anxiety.

What Happened

Wes Moss addresses recent concerns about the US dollar's decline, clarifying that while the dollar has decreased by a little over 1% in the past week, it remains within historical norms and is equivalent to its value in 2002. He notes that a weaker dollar can benefit US businesses that sell internationally, providing a positive spin on the situation. Gold and silver prices are rising as they are perceived as safe havens against the dollar, but the underlying economy remains robust with consumer spending up 5% from last year, housing prices stabilizing, and inflation under control at less than 3%.

Moss discusses the prevalent fear of running out of money during retirement, a concern that ranks high among Americans regardless of their asset levels. He introduces the 4% rule, a guideline suggesting a safe withdrawal rate to help ensure that retirees do not exhaust their funds prematurely. This rule is part of a broader five-step plan that includes understanding spending patterns and maintaining a safety bucket to alleviate financial anxiety.

The episode features questions from listeners, including Ken from North Carolina, who questions the 4% rule and the reluctance to use principal funds in retirement. Moss addresses these concerns by discussing the flexibility and adaptability of retirement strategies depending on individual circumstances and market conditions.

Another listener, Jay from Connecticut, is advised to diversify his Vanguard 403b investments to reduce exposure to tech-heavy funds, highlighting the importance of a balanced portfolio. Moss also touches on the potential of home equity as a backstop for retirement funds, noting the average home equity for those aged 62 and older is between $300,000 and $350,000.

The discussion covers the role of AI in job displacement, noting that while some jobs are lost, new opportunities are emerging, balancing the overall job market. Moss also provides insights into high-yield junk bonds, which offer higher returns due to increased risk, with current yields around 6% to 7%. He illustrates their potential and volatility, sharing that junk bonds dropped by 25% during the pandemic but have also shown significant returns over the past five years.

Listeners are also advised on estate planning, with Lynn from California asking about titling a brokerage account to a living trust. Moss recommends this strategy to avoid probate and confusion, emphasizing the importance of proper estate planning to ensure a smooth transition of assets.

Key Insights