Episodes

  • Ep 67 | Gibson Smith | How Will the War in Iran Impact Bond Markets? | ROI Podcast
    Mar 16 2026

    Gibson Smith, founder of Smith Capital Investors, discusses emerging risks and opportunities in the bond market amid heightened geopolitical risk, a new Fed Chair, and a fresh wave of borrowing for the buildout of AI.

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    47 mins
  • Ep 66 | Jackie Wilke | Embracing Disruption in the Age of AI | ROI Podcast
    Mar 2 2026

    Jackie Wilke discusses how artificial intelligence is being leveraged by financial professionals to improve productivity and “level up” the client experience.

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    39 mins
  • Ep 65 | Andrew Wiechert | Unpacking Underappreciated Overseas Opportunities with WCM | ROI Podcast
    Feb 19 2026

    On the heels of a strong year for international equities in 2025, Andrew Wiechert, Portfolio Manager at WCM Investment Management, breaks down why developed and emerging markets remain positioned to benefit from attractive valuations and improving fundamentals in 2026 and beyond. He highlights the risks and also some of the potential competitive advantages enjoyed by active managers seeking to navigate these opportunities.

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    48 mins
  • Ep 64 | Dave McGarel | Navigating the Treacherous Descent from the Peak of Mount Everest | ROI Podcast
    Feb 2 2026

    Dave McGarel highlights why sky-high valuations in 2026 are like lingering too long at the summit of Mount Everest oxygen is thin and small mistakes can lead to dire consequences. He explains the key risks ahead and points to where he sees more attractive, lower altitude opportunities for equity investors.

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    27 mins
  • Ep 63 | Brian Wesbury | Mr. Wesbury Goes to Washington | ROI Podcast
    Jan 20 2026

    In this episode, Brian Wesbury discusses his recent testimony on Capitol Hill, First Trust’s economic outlook for 2026, and implications of overvalued markets.

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    39 mins
  • Ep 62 | Richard Bernstein | It’s Not a Horse Race…Boring is Beautiful in 2026 | ROI Podcast
    Jan 5 2026

    Will the stock market finally broaden? Are valuations stretched? Will momentum stall for AI-related stocks? Richard Bernstein provides his perspective on these questions and others, laying out risks and opportunities for investors for 2026.

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    44 mins
  • Ep 61 | Bob Stein | What Surprises Are Ahead for the US Economy in 2026? | ROI Podcast
    Dec 22 2025

    At the precipice of a new year, Bob Stein discusses the implications of a probable new Fed Chair, the possibility of a Supreme Court ruling against tariff policies, and the odds for mid-term elections.

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    47 mins
  • Ep 60 | Kevin Bishopp | Is AI a Friend or Foe to Financial Advisors? | ROI Podcast
    Dec 8 2025

    Will AI replace—or empower—financial advisors? Performance coach Kevin Bishopp shares how financial professionals are already leveraging AI tools, potential risks ahead, and new opportunities to thrive in an AI era.

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    Subscribe Here to the ROI Podcast & other First Trust Market News
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    44 mins