Are buffered ETFs really the holy grail—or are they just misunderstood? In this episode, Mike and Dallanunpack the most commonly touted benefits of buffered ETFs and how they may serve investors who want to buffer downside risks without abandoning the markets entirely.

Using a framework borrowed from Innovator (no affiliation),the guys walk through nine key features often highlighted in buffered ETF offerings: defined return and risk parameters, cost efficiency, no credit risk, point-to-point structure, transparency, no commission loads, accessibility,liquidity, and tax efficiency. You'll hear the pros, cons, and tradeoffs of each feature—along with the occasional Porsche joke and a dream of podcasting from Canada.

This is not an endorsement of any specific ETF. Instead, thisis an honest look at how these vehicles are constructed and what types of investors might appreciate their structure.

The episode also highlights behavioral realities—like fear ofmissing out (FOMO)—and how to ask yourself the right questions before allocating significant capital to structured products. Is a capped upside worth the buffer? Are you okay missing out if the market jumps 20% while you’recapped at 6%? What about cost, credit risk, and liquidity?

Whether you're skeptical or already investing in bufferedETFs, this conversation aims to educate—not persuade—so you can decide for yourself if these tools align with your retirement strategy.

Investing, Stocks, Markets, Bonds, Equity, Buffer, BufferedETF, ETF, ETFs, ETF Investing, Retire, Retirement, Market crash, Market crashes, Downside, Drawdown, Risks

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DISCLAIMER: Doyour own homework. Talk to your advisor. Talk to us. Here is a (non-exhaustive) list of some fund companies’ websites who may offer funds in the buffered (floor, outcome, targeted) category: AllianzIM.com FTportfolios.com innovatoretfs.com Calamos.com PGIM.com Paceretfs.com True-shares.com Blackrock.com Invesco.com Simplify.us

If we mentioned any companies today, please see thatcompany’s website for details and disclosures related to their company and funds. Any mention of a specific company or fund should not be construed as a recommendation. These names are used for illustrative purposes only. Advisoryservices are offered through ATX Financial Planning LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. All content is for information purposes only and should not be relied upon for any investment decisions. Read Full disclaimer at www.atxfinancialplanning.com/podsocialdisclosures