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

Podcast: The Clark Howard Podcast

Published: 2026-03-17

Duration: 45 min

What Happened

Wes Moss and Clark Howard address the unprecedented global oil disruption caused by geopolitical tensions, including the impact on oil prices and the subsequent economic effects. Currently, the price of oil has fluctuated dramatically, reaching as high as $130 per barrel due to the conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil choke point. This disruption has led to increased inflationary pressures, affecting the stock market and consumers' daily lives.

Moss provides historical context by examining past geopolitical shocks and their impact on the stock market. He notes that while initial disruptions often lead to market declines, history shows that markets tend to recover, with average gains of 11.3% a year after such events. This perspective offers reassurance to investors worried about current market volatility.

The conversation shifts to the influence of AI on the workforce. Contrary to common fears of job loss, recent studies suggest AI is increasing workloads rather than eliminating jobs. Moss cites a study from Active Track Productivity Lab showing significant increases in email, messaging, and weekend work, suggesting that AI tools are expanding rather than reducing the amount of work employees need to handle.

In response to listener questions, Moss discusses investment strategies amid market volatility. He emphasizes the importance of rebalancing portfolios, especially when market shocks create disparities in asset allocations. For investors considering when to buy into a falling market, he advises caution and strategic thinking about asset allocation.

Another listener, John from Illinois, queries about gifting money to children without incurring high tax penalties. Moss advises managing withdrawals from retirement accounts carefully to avoid jumping tax brackets, suggesting spreading the gifts over more years to optimize tax efficiency.

The episode also covers the topic of automatic savings plans and their impact on the stock market. With 70 million Americans participating in 401(k) plans, automatic savings contribute significantly to market stability. Moss supports automated savings as a key factor in long-term financial health.

Finally, the episode addresses career changes into financial planning, with Moss encouraging a listener interested in becoming a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). He highlights the suitability of the financial planning industry for mid-career transitions, noting the potential for a successful career even when starting at age 40.

Key Insights

• The current global oil disruption is unprecedented, driven by geopolitical tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz. This has resulted in oil price volatility, with prices reaching up to $130 per barrel.
• Despite initial market drops during geopolitical shocks, historical data suggests markets often recover significantly within a year. Average market gains are around 11.3% a year after such events.
• AI implementation is expanding workloads rather than reducing jobs. A study shows significant increases in email and messaging activities, as well as weekend work, after AI tools are adopted.
• Automatic savings plans, like 401(k)s, involve 70 million Americans and contribute to market stability by ensuring a steady flow of investments, countering potential market disruptions.