In Episode 51 of Money Alchemist, Ben and Brent dive into the shifting landscape of U.S. trade policy following a landmark Supreme Court decision. They break down the legalities of tariffs, analyze the real-world impact on consumer goods like the iPhone, and discuss why international markets are seeing a 2026 surge.

About your Hosts

Ben Jones, CFP®

Managing Director, National Wealth Management Group

www.nwmgadvisors.com

Sign up for Ben’s newsletter at www.karatstick.com

Follow him on X @thekaratstick

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-nwmg/

Brent Gargano, CFP®

Founder & Advisor, Infinite Wealth Planning

www.infinitewealthplanning.com

linkedin.com/in/brent-gargano-cfp®-2067b573

Comments or questions? Email us at comments@moneyalchemistshow.com

Agenda:

What’s happening now

• Market Shift: Cintrini Research report on AI’s impact on software sends ripples through the markets.

• International Growth: Total International Market index funds are up 10% so far in 2026.

• Geopolitical Tension: Monitoring the impact of ongoing violence in Mexico.

• Constitutional Ruling: The use of IEEPA to set tariff policy has been ruled unconstitutional.

Topic du jour - What’s Next for Tariffs

• The SCOTUS Decision: A 6-3 ruling deems the Executive Branch's use of IEEPA for broad tariffs unconstitutional under the Major Questions Doctrine.

• Trade Act of 1974 (Section 122): Understanding "balance of payments" authority—15% tariffs for 150 days (requires Congressional extension).

• Section 301 Investigations: How the U.S. Trade Representative determines unfair trade practices.

• National Security (Section 232): The Dept. of Commerce’s role in retaliation measures regarding national security threats.

• Trade Winners: Why Canada and Mexico are likely to benefit as "economic threat" cases become harder to prove.

• The China Impact: With $308.4 Billion in annual imports, is the impact of China tariffs being overstated?

• Case Study (iPhone 17 Pro Max): Despite a 125% tariff, the 2026 price remains steady at $1,199. Why haven't prices increased?

Tip of the Week:

• Roast Your Own Coffee: Save money and improve quality by roasting at home. The SR800 Coffee Roaster by FreshRoast is a great entry-level option.

• Sourcing: Order green coffee beans directly from cooperatives like Green Coffee Collective or even via Amazon.

  To connect with Ben Jones or Brent Gargano directly, email us at comments@moneyalchemistshow.com.

Disclosure:

The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment, financial, tax, or legal advice. The views expressed here are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of National Wealth Management Group, LLC or its affiliates.

Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. There is no guarantee that any investment strategy discussed will be successful or profitable. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Tax planning strategies mentioned may not be suitable for everyone and could change due to updates in tax laws or regulations; always consult a qualified tax professional or CPA for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Economic discussions are based on current data and opinions, which are subject to change and may not accurately predict future events. We encourage listeners to conduct their own research and seek guidance from a certified financial advisor before making any decisions.

Advisory services are offered through National Wealth Management Group, LLC. For more information about National Wealth Management Group including our Forms ADV and CRS, please visit our website www.nwmgadvisors.com or contact us directly.

In this episode of Money Alchemist, Ben and Brent take a step back to examine the current American mood and what shifting consumer sentiment may signal for the broader economic landscape.

They begin with a look at recent market activity, including a strong start to the month for stocks, evolving global trade conversations, and continued movement in precious metals. The discussion also touches on brand perception, geopolitical developments, and areas of strength emerging within equities.

The main focus centers on the University of Michigan consumer sentiment survey, which currently reflects a reading of 56. Ben and Brent explore what this measure captures, why confidence matters, and how sentiment can influence economic behavior over time.

The episode also includes a practical tip of the week featuring tools that support digital security and organization, followed by a well known story about Jim Carrey that serves as a reminder of the role belief can play in long term success.

This discussion is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.

Subscribe for ongoing conversations about markets, planning, and long term thinking.

Segments:

1. What’s happening - 10 min tops

• The Snowmagedon
• 1st month stocks positive so far
• Tesla brand damage

Latest market events - 10 min

• Trade deal between Europe and India
• Tensions over Greenland
• Gold topping $5k / precious metals popping
• Smid rally

Topic du jour - 20 to 25 min

• U of M consumer sentiment survey
• Currently at reading of 56
• Pull up on Y Charts

Tip of the week - 5 min

• Firewalla
• Browser favorite folders

End on inspiration story

• Young Jim Cary writes himself a $10M check

Sources

https://www.sca.isr.umich.edu/files/featured-chart_large-906bd993.png

About your Hosts

Ben Jones, CFP®

Managing Director, National Wealth Management Group

www.nwmgadvisors.com 

Sign up for Ben’s newsletter at www.karatstick.com 

Follow him on X @thekaratstick

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-nwmg/

Brent Gargano, CFP®

Founder & Advisor, Infinite Wealth Planning 

www.infinitewealthplanning.com

linkedin.com/in/brent-gargano-cfp®-2067b573

Comments or questions? Email us at comments@moneyalchemistshow.com

Disclosure:

Investment advice offered through National Wealth Management Group, LLC.

All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

The information presented is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a recommendation or specific advice.