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Lagniappe
Oct. 2, 2026

The AI Bet and the Case for Balance

Markets are knocking on the door of record highs even as the latest jobs report shows signs of a cooling labor market. Greg and Doug unpack why bad economic news can sometimes be good news for stocks, what’s keeping long-term interest rates elevated, and why today’s higher bond yields change the risk-reward equation for investors.

They also look at improving oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, the resilience of the U.S. economy, and the increasingly important question hanging over markets: will the massive investment in AI infrastructure ultimately produce the productivity and profits investors are counting on? Plus, why an uncertain outcome for AI may be one more argument for maintaining a balanced portfolio.


Key Takeaways

00:17 — Bad news in the economy is good news for the markets

04:01 — Why higher bond yields provide more protection

07:40 — Why interest-rate forecasts keep missing the mark

09:45 — Oil flows return through the Strait of Hormuz

11:52 — What’s keeping long-term interest rates elevated?

15:40 — The market’s massive bet on AI

18:09 — Why AI uncertainty makes the case for balance


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The information in this podcast is educational and general in nature and does not take into consideration the listener's personal circumstances. Therefore, it is not intended to be a substitute for specific, individualized financial, legal, or tax advice. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate, qualified professional prior to making a final decision.


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