Full Show: The Power Of Dividend Growth Explained And Is The Midwest The Next Silicon Valley? | Clark Howard Video

Should we fall in love with dividends? Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss tackles the classic debate of stocks versus bonds with a deep dive into the power of dividends. Using data going back 45 years to 1980, Wes reveals how an investment in the S&P 500 would have dramatically outperformed bonds, with dividends growing by an incredible percentage. Also, Wes shares a fascinating look at the future of American manufacturing. He draws a comparison between the 1950s and today, highlighting the huge growth in productivity and innovation. Wes argues that the next big frontier for economic growth might not be in Silicon Valley, but in the heart of the Midwest, thanks to modern-day "George Jetsons" and a renewed focus on high-tech manufacturing.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the September 2, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: link

00:00 - Intro
01:00 - The Power of Dividend Growth Explained
07:55 - Ask Clark - If bonds can’t keep up with money supply growth and inflation, why invest in them at all? (Joseph in Florida)
13:08 - Ask Clark - For retirees whose expenses are fully covered by pensions and Social Security, how should “dry powder” be calculated? (Cynthia in Oregon)
17:14 - Ask Clark - What’s the best way for a self-employed hairstylist with $35k in a CD and $100/week to invest for long-term retirement growth? (Mary “MK” in Georgia)
22:29 - Is the Midwest the Next Silicon Valley?
30:54 - Ask Clark - Should I cut back 401(k) contributions to build a stronger emergency fund, even if it delays retirement? (Joseph in New Hampshire)
34:54 - Ask Clark - With $2M saved and plans to buy a $300k house in cash, what’s the best way to fund it while keeping $200k liquid? (Patrick in Arizona)
39:00 - Ask Clark - Should I convert my Traditional IRA to a Roth now, given my pension, Social Security plans, and long-term tax outlook? (Charissa in California)

Clark.com: Advice You Can Trust:
SUBSCRIBE: link

Listen To The Clark Howard Podcast: link
Apple Podcasts: link
Spotify: link
iHeartRadio: link

Follow Us for More Money Tips:
Website: link
Podcast: link
Newsletter: link
Instagram: link
Facebook: link

Need Consumer Advice?
The Consumer Action Center is a free resource for advice on money and consumer issues. Call 636-49C-LARK (636-492-5275) and a member of Team Clark will assist you as soon as possible. The Consumer Action Center is available Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.

If you found this video valuable, give it a like.
If you know someone who needs to see it, share it.
Leave a comment below with your thoughts.
Add it to a playlist if you want to watch it later.

Our Promise to You:
At Clark.com and ClarkDeals.com, we do not get paid for endorsements or reviews of any product or service, nor do we allow advertisers to place paid content on our sites. More information: link