On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick welcome back guest Scott Passeser. Scott is an accomplished executive recruiter with extensive experience hosting Jobline on News 12 and Radio Jobline on LI News Radio. Together, they discuss the current state of the job market and economy, including the impact of job numbers, market performance, and mass deportations. They dive into the importance of networking, the need for more women in financial services, and how hybrid work is reshaping the workplace. Tune in for expert insights, candid conversations, and maybe even a few unexpected laughs along the way!
The Lebenthal Report Episode #146: 2025 Estate Planning Playbook
On our first episode of 2025, Michael and Dominick welcomed back a client favorite, Harold A. Bollaci, esteemed attorney specializing in estate planning, elder law, and asset protection strategies. The episode dives into critical financial and legal topics, including updates to state tax laws, market performance in 2024, and the potential impact of a new administration's policies. The discussion emphasized the importance of regularly reviewing and updating estate planning documents, such as wills, trusts, healthcare proxies, and beneficiary designations, to reflect current wishes and circumstances. Strategies for mitigating estate taxes were explored, including annual gifting and the use of trusts, with a focus on special needs trusts for beneficiaries with specific requirements. The team also delved into the distinctions between revocable and irrevocable trusts, Medicaid implications, and asset protection strategies to avoid government clawbacks. The episode concluded with actionable advice for listeners and plans for future collaboration with legal experts.
For more information, please contact Harold Bollaci, P.C. at (516) 538-9700.
The Lebenthal Report Episode #144: Trump, Tariffs and Taxes
This week on The Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick analyzed the stock market's performance, highlighting trends in the S&P 500, Dow, Nasdaq, and the strength of smaller companies in the Russell 2000. They discussed the economic implications of tariffs, "America First" policies, and potential changes to tax laws, including estate taxes and capital gains as the 2017 tax law approaches its 2026 sunset. They also emphasized retirement plan composition, adapting portfolios to navigate the shifting political and economic landscape, and the importance of addressing the national debt and monitoring consumer spending.
The Lebenthal Report Episode #143: The Artist Journey
On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick welcome award-winning graphic novelist, painter, and frequent cover artist for The New Yorker, Eric Drooker. Together they dive into the unique struggles successful artists face, from the pressures of fame and wealth to the pursuit of true fulfillment. Using examples like Rauschenberg, Rosenquist, and Kerouac, they discuss how legacy often lies not in material success but in giving back through art, mentorship, and philanthropy. Plus, Eric shares insights on his iconic New Yorker covers and the economic realities shaping modern artistry.
Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion of art, success, and purpose. Learn more about Eric or shop his graphic novels and prints at Drooker.com.
The Lebenthal Report Episode #142: Election Economics
On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Dominick and Michael dive into the unpredictable landscape of the U.S. presidential election and its potential impact on the economy. They focus on a proactive approach to managing client investments during periods of heightened market volatility, choosing to rely on economic data and leading indicators over political noise. The hosts analyze the implications of a possible Trump or Harris presidency on taxes and tariffs, including potential shifts after the 2025 expiration of Trump-era tax cuts, underscoring the necessity for strategic planning regardless of election outcomes.
The Lebenthal Report Episode #141: Election Preview with Macro Mike
On the latest episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick welcome back New York Life Global Market Strategist, Michael "Macro Mike" Logalbo, to discuss the potential economic and market implications of the upcoming U.S. election. The team dive into how policy shifts could impact tariffs, tax strategies, and the national deficit under different election outcomes. With Trump and Harris holding contrasting views on trade and tax policy, they explore the risks of an election sweep, including fiscal impacts and market reactions. They also emphasize that, despite political shifts, the resilience of the economy and consumer spending remain a key stabilizer. For more information or to access New York Life's research, feel free to reach out to us.
The Lebenthal Report Episode #140: Micro Skills for Big Results
On the latest episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick welcome Dr. Resa E. Lewiss and Dr. Adaira Landry to discuss their book, "MicroSkills: Small Actions, Big Impact". Together they dive into how their book relates to wealth and financial planning, especially during significant life changes. The discussion also covers tackling overwhelming email communications and the importance of breaking tasks into manageable steps, highlighting emotional intelligence and situational awareness in personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this insightful episode packed with valuable takeaways on finance, productivity, and personal development!
The Lebenthal Report Episode #139: The History of Biotech with Tim Harris
This week on the Lebenthal Report, Michael and Dominick welcome molecular biologist, biochemist, and author Tim Harris. Together, they discuss the promising future of gene therapy, the biotech industry's evolution, and the role of technology in driving innovation. They explore the origins of biotechnology, from early breakthroughs like the cloning of the insulin gene to the pivotal moments that shaped the industry. The conversation also covers recent market trends, the upcoming Federal Reserve interest rate cut, and AI’s impact on drug development. Key topics include COVID vaccines, CRISPR technology, and the parallels between biotech’s early days and today’s AI landscape.
For more insights into the exciting world of biotech, be sure to grab a copy of Tim Harris' book "In Pursuit of Unicorns", which comes out tomorrow, September 17th!