The Market & Retirement: Why Diversification Matters in 2026

In this critical market update, host Bryan Anderson welcomes back financial expert John Balmer to dissect the turbulent investment landscape of 2026. With over 25 years of Wall Street experience managing $520+ million in assets, John provides an unfiltered look at what's really happening in the markets—and what it means for your retirement.

What You'll Learn:
• Why tech darlings like Nvidia, Meta, and Amazon are struggling despite record earnings
• The dramatic rotation from growth stocks to value and energy sectors
• Real examples of portfolio damage when investors fail to rebalance
• How individual stocks can crash 30-60% while indexes appear stable
• John's forecast: Market crash or new all-time highs by midterms?

Key Takeaways:
John walks through actual stock charts showing the bifurcation in today's market—where software stocks have fallen 32% while value stocks are up 15%. He explains why even the best companies can see massive drawdowns and why having a solid retirement income plan matters more than chasing returns.

Whether you're heavily invested in tech, sitting in cash, or trying to figure out your next move, this episode delivers the straight talk you need to protect your retirement in uncertain times.

Featured Guest: John Balmer, Financial Advisor with 25+ years experience

Episode: 213
Host: Bryan Anderson, Founder of Annuity Straight Talk

Schedule a consultation: Visit AnnuityStraightTalk.com