Will Vanguard’s next 50 years live up to its first half century? The popular investment firm counts millions of everyday investors among its clients. Vanguard CEO Salim Ramji joined the firm from its rival, BlackRock. Ramji is influencing Vanguard’s direction while keeping the overall mission intact. But the company continues to evolve under the new leadership, with a greater emphasis on advice and the launch of new funds. This episode is the first of a two-part series examining what’s going on with Vanguard in 2026. <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/people/daniel-sotiroff" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dan Sotiroff</a>, Vanguard analyst and the associate director of US passive strategies research for Morningstar, joined Investing Insights.
Vanguard Investors Cleaned Up <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/funds/vanguard-investors-cleaned-up" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.morningstar.com/funds/vanguard-investors-cleaned-up</a>
On this episode:
 
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:28 Vanguard’s New Era Under CEO Salim Ramji
00:02:56 Vanguard Splits Into Two Investment Advisors
00:07:17 Analyst’s Thoughts on the Firm’s SEC Scrutiny and Fine
00:10:03 Seeking ETF Share Class Approval for Active Funds
00:12:01 New Active Equity ETFs and Coverage Outlook
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/AE3Rl-fWnRnCODGy6Z8FTqg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">These 8 Funds Could Help Steady Portfolios During Rough Markets</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AVB6L1j58SraYwPR2nRnwOA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why Bond Funds Benefit from Active Management</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AViU6zZr6TjKm_DszA1G9OA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">These Top Tech Stocks Can Stand Up to AI Risks</a>
 
 
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Plus, what to know about three of the firm’s new active equity ETFs.

Vanguard Is Entering a New Era. Can It Keep Winning for Another 50 Years?

Too many funds and stocks in a portfolio can create clutter and make rebalancing time-consuming. Allocation funds such as balanced funds can make it easier to stay diversified and invested during market volatility. That’s because these funds automatically rebalance, moderating big gains and losses. And the funds can provide exposure to more than one security type and market. Russ Kinnel, senior principal of ratings for Morningstar and editor of Morningstar FundInvestor newsletter, discusses his list of the best balanced and allocation funds.
<a href="https://newsletters.morningstar.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Subscribe to Morningstar FundInvestor newsletter.</a>
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:00:48 Balanced funds and market volatility
00:01:18 Who allocation funds are designed for
00:03:30 Foreign exposure in Vanguard Global Wellesley Income fund
00:04:40 Dividend income focus at Vanguard Global Wellington and American Funds Capital Income Builder funds
00:05:22 Inflation‑protection strategies in Pimco and T. Rowe Price funds
00:07:45 Key takeaways on balanced and allocation funds
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/AVB6L1j58SraYwPR2nRnwOA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why Bond Funds Benefit from Active Management</a> 
<a href="https://apple.news/AViU6zZr6TjKm_DszA1G9OA" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">These Top Tech Stocks Can Stand Up to AI Risks</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/ABwH3eYBQS023Q9roYRqLKg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 Cautionary Tales from Private Equity and Private Credit Markets</a>
 
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A look at how allocation funds from Vanguard, T. Rowe Price, and more offer portfolio simplicity.

These 8 Funds Could Help Steady Portfolios During Rough Markets

Active management can still win in the bond market. Opportunities abound for active managers to best their passive peers and benchmarks. And here’s why: they have access to tools, asset classes, and flexibility that their competition does not. Right now, the bond market is ripe for them to succeed. A deep dive in Morningstar Magazine’s first quarter 2026 issue makes the case why everyday investors should consider adding active bond funds to their portfolio. Eric Jacobson, senior principal of fixed-income strategies for Morningstar, and Maciej Kowara, principal of fixed income strategies for Morningstar, co-authored the article.
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/magazine" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Subscribe to Morningstar Magazine to read independent investment research for free.</a>
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:33 Why Active Management Still Works in Bonds
00:02:25 Who Trades in the Bond Market
00:03:18 Finding Inefficiencies in Fixed Income
00:04:26 When Passive Bond Funds Can Hurt Investors
00:06:01 How to Spot a Good Active Bond Fund
00:08:10 What Gives Active Managers an Edge
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://youtu.be/Rv7s6LCu-rM?si=9tLvmRLJcGrKGyZv" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">These Top Tech Stocks Can Stand Up to AI Risks</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/tpJG0GzX7rM?si=IVaOxLg5qDeOblvp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 Cautionary Tales from Private Equity and Private Credit Markets</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AhpQEdlvwR9G9dZTfcpo3lw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Are You Ready for Tax Day? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You File</a>
 
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Plus, how to find a fairly priced bond fund.

Why Bond Funds Benefit from Active Management

The stock market has cooled on stocks caught up in the whirlwind of artificial intelligence. Fears over whether AI will disrupt a variety of sectors have triggered big sell-offs. Morningstar equity analysts have investigated 132 companies to determine whether that’s the case. They have concluded that AI is not a universal destroyer. The team thinks investors should sort through the wreckage and find newly cheap companies with enduring competitive advantages. Eric Compton, director of equity research for the technology sector at Morningstar, tells you where to look.
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/moat-ratings-guidebook-amid-ai-disruption" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Moat Ratings Guidebook Amid AI Disruption</a> 
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:28 What are Moats, and How Does Morningstar Use Them?
00:04:11 In-Depth Analyst Review of 132 Companies
00:06:27 Why Cybersecurity Holds Up
00:10:02 Why Design Software Looks Resilient
00:13:10 How Financial Data Benefits From AI
00:15:32 Finding Opportunity After AI Selloffs
 
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/ABwH3eYBQS023Q9roYRqLKg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 Cautionary Tales from Private Equity and Private Credit Markets</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AhpQEdlvwR9G9dZTfcpo3lw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Are You Ready for Tax Day? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You File</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/A0HLTkmZeRz-do3uC_9uaVw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Avoid This IRA Distribution Error to Protect Your Retirement Cash</a>
 
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 </p

Plus, why some software stocks are not down and out yet.

These Top Tech Stocks Can Stand Up to AI Risks

Two high-profile cases in the public-private markets are testing boundaries and investors. ERShares Private-Public Crossover ETF’s stake in illiquid holdings, including SpaceX, has apparently run afoul SEC rules. Meanwhile, a high-flying alternative assets manager has changed the rules for returning investors’ cash from one of its funds. And Blue Owl Capital is now facing backlash.
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/alternative-investments/lessons-private-markets-bust-why-this-etfs-investors-missed-out-spacex-gains" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lessons From a Private Markets Bust: Why This ETF’s Investors Missed Out on SpaceX Gains </a>
Subscribe to the <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/newsletters/public-meets-private" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Public Meets Private newsletter</a>. 
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:24 How XOVR ETF Differs From Typical ETFs
00:02:11 XOVR ETF Performance Versus Broader Stock Market
00:02:48 Why XOVR’s SpaceX Stake Swung Sharply
00:09:56 Blue Owl Capital’s Origins and Current Problems
00:13:25 Who Invests in Blue Owl’s Direct Lending Funds
00:18:09 Investor Lessons From Blue Owl’s Redemption Halt
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/AhpQEdlvwR9G9dZTfcpo3lw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Are You Ready for Tax Day? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You File</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/A0HLTkmZeRz-do3uC_9uaVw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Avoid This IRA Distribution Error to Protect Your Retirement Cash</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/ATfCtSHQpRgWhOnqHRHOHSg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Elevate Your 60/40 Portfolio With These Simple Tweaks</a>
 
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What investors can learn from the sagas involving ERShares and Blue Owl Capital.

2 Cautionary Tales from Private Equity and Private Credit Markets

Tax day is quickly approaching, and it’s time to get organized. New tax rules might make it worth your while to itemize rather than take the standard deduction this year. And don’t just file away your 1099 forms—they can offer valuable insight into your portfolio’s tax efficiency. Christine Benz, Morningstar’s director of personal finance and retirement planning, discusses what you need to consider before, and after, you file.
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/morningstars-tax-planning-ira-resources-2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Morningstar’s Tax-Planning and IRA Resources for 2026</a>
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:15 The "Procrastination Penalty" of Last-Minute IRA and HSA Contributions
00:02:35 How to Decide Whether to Itemize or Claim the Standard Deduction
00:04:18 Tips for Itemizing
00:05:37 Other Deductions You May Qualify For
00:07:45 Insights from Your 1099 Forms: Dividends 
00:10:40 Insights from Your 1099 Forms: Capital Gains
00:09:39 Insights from Your 1099 Forms: Tax-Exempt Interest
00:12:35 How to Avoid Overpaying Your Taxes
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/A0HLTkmZeRz-do3uC_9uaVw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Avoid This IRA Distribution Error to Protect Your Retirement Cash</a> 
<a href="https://apple.news/ATfCtSHQpRgWhOnqHRHOHSg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Elevate Your 60/40 Portfolio With These Simple Tweaks</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/A2EBG2I9mQD-XAxxwXY8lwQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why REIT ETFs Still Work as Real Estate Slumps</a>
 
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Plus, how to use your 1099 forms to improve your portfolio.

Are You Ready for Tax Day? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You File

A distribution from your traditional IRA could cost you if you’re not aware of your responsibilities. Many investors are saving up for their retirement in workplace accounts like 401(k)s. Those administrators handle tasks that IRA custodians don’t. And it’s up to you to take charge and keep track of your hard-earned money, so you’re not taxed twice. Denise Appleby is known as “The IRA Whisperer.” The Morningstar contributor has written about how to protect your IRA from costly mistakes.
Don’t Pay Taxes Twice: Here’s How to Save Thousands on IRA Distributions <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/dont-pay-taxes-twice-heres-how-save-thousands-ira-distributions" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/dont-pay-taxes-twice-heres-how-save-thousands-ira-distributions</a>
On this episode:
00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:28 What is a Traditional IRA and How It’s Funded
00:02:29 How IRA Withdrawals Are Taxed When Accounts Hold Taxable and Tax-Free Dollars
00:05:36 What IRA Custodians Don’t Track and Why Investors Should 
00:09:05 What to Check on Form 1099‑R and Why Form 8606 Matters
00:12:02 How to Fix IRA Mistakes
00:13:44 What Records to Keep Track of to Avoid Double Taxation
 
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/ATfCtSHQpRgWhOnqHRHOHSg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Elevate Your 60/40 Portfolio With These Simple Tweaks</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/A2EBG2I9mQD-XAxxwXY8lwQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why REIT ETFs Still Work as Real Estate Slumps</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AXJIfLlS_RWO6C8JuDh4JVQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to Make the Most of Your IRA in 2026</a>
 
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Plus, what you need to do to fix this costly tax mistake.

Avoid This IRA Distribution Error to Protect Your Retirement Cash

The 60/40 portfolio has proven it’s here to stay, but it can benefit from a refresh like other classics. The total portfolio approach refines the 60/40. It takes a closer look at the components of the plain-vanilla portfolio and considers how risky they are. The goal is to help investors stay disciplined as market conditions change for the better or worse. Jason Kephart has written about the total portfolio approach. He’s a senior principal of multi-asset  manager research for Morningstar.
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/how-total-portfolio-approach-can-improve-6040-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How a Total Portfolio Approach Can Improve the 60/40 Portfolio</a> 
<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/personal-finance/morningstars-tax-planning-ira-resources-2026" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Morningstar’s Tax-Planning and IRA Resources for 2026</a>
On this episode:
 00:00:00 Welcome
00:01:20 Total Portfolio Approach vs 60/40 Portfolio
00:01:52 How Growth and Stability Work
00:03:30 Why High-Yield Bonds Wouldn’t Go into Stability
00:04:30 Stocks That Might Be Better Suited for Stability than Growth
00:06:52 Challenges of the Total Portfolio Approach
00:08:49 How Investors Can Use This Strategy
Watch more from Morningstar:
<a href="https://apple.news/A2EBG2I9mQD-XAxxwXY8lwQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why REIT ETFs Still Work as Real Estate Slumps</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/AXJIfLlS_RWO6C8JuDh4JVQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to Make the Most of Your IRA in 2026</a>
<a href="https://apple.news/A_WizFuaGT5qyR6imVKVaxw" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">3 Winners and 3 Losers from Emerging-Market Funds’ Big Rally</a>
 
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Plus, the investments that could be better suited for a different bucket.

Elevate Your 60/40 Portfolio With These Simple Tweaks

The struggle of brick-and-mortar real estate has extended into investment portfolios. Elevated inflation and high interest rates have weighed on the real estate sector over the past few years. Real estate investment trusts or REIT ETFs have not been spared. Yet these exchange-traded funds are popular among income investors. They generate cash and can help diversify a portfolio. So, where do they fit in yours? And which REIT ETFs do Morningstar analysts consider top picks? Dan Sotiroff is the associate director of US Passive Strategies for Morningstar. Dan is also the editor of Morningstar’s ETFInvestor newsletter.Subscribe to Morningstar’s ETFInvestor newsletter. <a href="https://newsletters.morningstar.com/" target="_blank">https://newsletters.morningstar.com/</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:26 Basics of REIT ETFs 00:04:34 Active vs. Passive REIT ETFs00:06:03 REIT ETFs’ Performance vs US Stock Market00:09:20 Cutting the Tax Bill on REIT ETF income  00:10:06 Top REIT ETFs From Vanguard & Schwab00:13:48 Key Takeaways for Income Investors Watch more from Morningstar:<a href="https://apple.news/AXJIfLlS_RWO6C8JuDh4JVQ" target="_blank">How to Make the Most of Your IRA in 2026</a><a href="https://apple.news/A_WizFuaGT5qyR6imVKVaxw" target="_blank">3 Winners and 3 Losers from Emerging-Market Funds’ Big Rally</a><a href="https://apple.news/ApH_KJKH1SOyX6NZDlpFjBA" target="_blank">How New Retirees Can Spend More Without Risking Their Savings</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a> Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus, 4 Gold- and Silver-rated REIT ETFs from Vanguard, Schwab, and more.

Why REIT ETFs Still Work as Real Estate Slumps

Thanks to its tax benefits, your IRA can be a powerful tool to optimize your portfolio. Investment firms often see a big influx of new contributions into individual retirement accounts in the early part of each year as investors rush to meet the April 15 deadline. If you’re one of the many investors adding new funds to your IRA, Morningstar’s director of personal finance and retirement planning Christine Benz has some ideas on how to make the most of those contributions and improve your portfolio in the process.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/how-get-most-out-your-ira-contributions-2" target="_blank">How to Get the Most Out of Your IRA Contributions</a>On this episode: 00:00:00 Welcome00:01:16 2026 IRA Contribution Limits00:01:45 How to Decide Between a Traditional and Roth IRA00:03:52 Stock Investing Mistakes to Avoid With Your IRA00:05:20 How to Invest Your IRA When You're Early in Your Career00:08:13 How to Assess Your IRA in the Middle of Your Earning Years00:10:23 The Advantages of Non-US Stocks and How to Diversify Your IRA00:14:30 How to Derisk Your Portfolio as You Approach Retirement00:16:47 Rebalancing Your IRA Without Tax Consequences00:17:48 Is it ever too late to Contribute to Your IRA? Watch more from Morningstar:<a href="https://apple.news/A_WizFuaGT5qyR6imVKVaxw" target="_blank">3 Winners and 3 Losers from Emerging-Market Funds’ Big Rally</a><a href="https://apple.news/ApH_KJKH1SOyX6NZDlpFjBA" target="_blank">How New Retirees Can Spend More Without Risking Their Savings</a><a href="https://apple.news/ABnBTeaZSQqWadeZOC3wXSA" target="_blank">Beyond AI: Are Quantum Stocks the Next Big Thing in Tech Investing?</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a>Editor's note: An earlier version of th

Take advantage of your IRA’s tax benefits to rebalance and optimize your portfolio.

How to Make the Most of Your IRA in 2026

merging-market funds will have a tough act to follow in 2026. The category racked up big gains last year following small returns for years. And a mix of factors like trade tensions prompted many investors to shift their dollars outside the US. Should you add emerging-market funds to your portfolio? And which ones were winners or losers? Morningstar’s senior principal of ratings Russ Kinnel dug into the data. The editor of the FundInvestor newsletter is here to tell you want he found.Subscribe to <a href="https://newsletters.morningstar.com/mfi/learn" target="_blank">Morningstar’s FundInvestor newsletter</a>.On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:20 Why Emerging‑Market Funds Surged After Years of Sluggish Returns00:02:29 Market Shifts of Leadership in Asia00:03:36 2025’s Winning Emerging-Market Funds00:05:08 2025’s Losing Emerging-Market Funds00:09:34 What’s Next for Emerging‑Market Funds in 2026?00:10:21 How Fidelity Contrafund’s Will Danoff Built a Successful Stock-Picking Record00:13:38 What Everyday Investors Can Learn from Danoff Watch more from Morningstar:<a target="_blank" href="https://apple.news/ApH_KJKH1SOyX6NZDlpFjBA">How New Retirees Can Spend More Without Risking Their Savings</a><a href="https://apple.news/ABnBTeaZSQqWadeZOC3wXSA" target="_blank">Beyond AI: Are Quantum Stocks the Next Big Thing in Tech Investing?</a><a href="https://apple.news/AiYXZXs6YRxGdeMlyNHRLxg" target="_blank">How to Generate Steady Income in 2026</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a>  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plus, Fidelity Contrafund’s Will Danoff’s upcoming retirement and what everyday investors can learn from him.

3 Winners and 3 Losers from Emerging-Market Funds’ Big Rally

If you’re newly retired or will join the ranks soon, it’s time to think about how you plan to spend your nest egg. Morningstar researchers are helping new retirees figure out where to begin. The recently published State of Retirement Income report concluded that the starting safe withdrawal rate for people beginning their retirement in 2026 is 3.9%. That number might appear low. However, the team has analyzed several strategies to lift it to almost 6%. Morningstar portfolio strategist Amy Arnott has investigated the data and joined the podcast to explain flexible withdrawal strategies.How Much Can You Spend in Retirement? Here’s Your Starting Safe Withdrawal Rate for 2026  <a href="https://apple.news/ALEEtAf1FTAm7WUFGvYvXVQ" target="_blank">https://apple.news/ALEEtAf1FTAm7WUFGvYvXVQ</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:26 Understanding the 3.9% Safe Withdrawal Rate00:02:33 How Flexible Strategies Lift Withdrawal Rates Up to 5.7%00:03:48 Flexible Approaches for Retirees Seeking Predictable Paycheck-like Income00:05:40 Inside the Vanguard Dynamic Spending Method00:07:15 Highest Lifetime Spending & Highest Starting Safe Withdrawal Rate00:09:20 Leaving a Legacy and Strengthening Your Portfolio00:14:30 4 Financial To-Dos to Kick Off the New Year Watch more from Morningstar:<a href="https://apple.news/ABnBTeaZSQqWadeZOC3wXSA" target="_blank">Beyond AI: Are Quantum Stocks the Next Big Thing in Tech Investing?</a><a href="https://apple.news/AiYXZXs6YRxGdeMlyNHRLxg" target="_blank">How to Generate Steady Income in 2026</a><a href="https://apple.news/AszMNaJUPRxW-J-d9X9P9bg" target="_blank">All in on Magnificent 7? Where You Should Invest Next</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a>  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.

Plus, the trade-offs new retirees should be prepared to make.

How New Retirees Can Spend More Without Risking Their Savings

Quantum computing stocks have surged in popularity over the past year, capturing investors’ enthusiasm on the coattails of the artificial intelligence boom. These buzzy names took off last summer after a slew of announcements and research breakthroughs from the biggest players in the tech industry like Alphabet GOOGL/GOOG, Amazon AMZN and Microsoft MSFT. Quantum computing promises to be one of the most transformative technological developments of the next few decades, but Morningstar’s analysts caution that mainstream market adoption could be a long away. Dan Romanoff, a senior equity research analyst on the technology team at Morningstar, discusses new developments in the quantum computing landscape and the best way for investors to get exposure in their portfolios now.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/business/insights/research/quantum-computing-observer" target="_blank">Quantum Computing Market Insights</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:28 What Is Quantum Computing?00:04:37 Why Are Computing Stocks Attracting Investors?00:12:45 Quantum Technology Isn’t Yet Ready for the Mainstream00:18:19Quantum Could Represent a $200 Billion Market00:22:48Winners and Losers in Quantum Computing Stocks00:25:28How To Invest in Quantum Computing Now  Watch more from Morningstar:<a href="https://apple.news/AiYXZXs6YRxGdeMlyNHRLxg" target="_blank">How to Generate Steady Income in 2026</a><a href="https://apple.news/AszMNaJUPRxW-J-d9X9P9bg" target="_blank">All in on Magnificent 7? Where You Should Invest Next</a><a href="https://apple.news/AGIhXsq6PRTObfyTdqqRoUw" target="_blank">9 Top ETFs for Income Investors That Stood Out in 2025</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a>  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">

Here's how investors can play it now.

Beyond AI: Are Quantum Stocks the Next Big Thing in Tech Investing?

Higher interest rates have ushered in an era where income opportunities abound. That’s following years of parched cash flow streams and low rates, especially in fixed income. However, risks like stubborn inflation and elevated stock valuations exist. Morningstar researchers believe it’s important to identify income opportunities that could be resilient in today’s market. Dominic Pappalardo, chief multi-asset strategist for Morningstar Wealth, joined Investing Insights to discuss where to look.Editor's note: The host misspoke when referring to Morningstar Holland’s chief European market strategist. His name is Michael Field.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/financial-advisors/income-investing-strategies-2026-maximizing-yield-an-uncertain-market" target="_blank">Income Investing Strategies for 2026: Maximizing Yield in an Uncertain Market</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:33 Income investing in 202600:04:02 Bond market breakdown: short, intermediate, or long term?00:07:39 Global bonds and hedging strategies00:13:27 Equity Opportunities Beyond the US00:15:31 REITs vs Utilities00:17:14 Building Resilient Income Streams  Watch more from Morningstar:<a href="https://youtu.be/NbJUS6P4bec?si=NH9gxwdUpJLb6wzJ" target="_blank">All in on Magnificent 7? Where You Should Invest Next</a><a href="https://youtu.be/H3ZEDd3-EZw?si=2VRS5H-0Yxq01ZDX" target="_blank">9 Top ETFs for Income Investors That Stood Out in 2025</a><a href="https://youtu.be/UHI1Skw9c2o?si=PiavJhciyJA-PF9h" target="_blank">Where to Invest in 2026 After This Year’s Market Volatility</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningstar/posts/?feedView=all</a>  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data fo

Plus, balancing the risks and rewards to produce predictable payouts.

How to Generate Steady Income in 2026

Is your portfolio making a big bet on the Magnificent Seven? Mega-cap names like Nvidia, Alphabet, and Apple belong to the exclusive club that has largely driven US returns higher in recent years. Their success has led to market concentration. Portfolios tracking broad benchmarks have seen their diversification decrease and risk increase. How can you prepare your portfolio to absorb potential shocks? And where are the opportunities beyond the Mag Seven? Morningstar Holland’s Chief European Market Strategist Michael Field is one of the researchers who investigated this.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/financial-advisors/beyond-magnificent-seven-unlocking-value-concentrated-stock-market" target="_blank">Beyond the Magnificent Seven: Unlocking Value in a Concentrated Stock Market</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:49 The Magnificent Seven’s strong returns have benefited many investors. Why is their dominance a risk?00:02:07 Your team highlighted a noteworthy stat in the report. The top 10 US stocks make up about 35% of the overall market. That’s almost double from a decade ago. What does that signal to you?00:02:39 Can you explain what the hidden cost of market concentration is?00:03:07 If the top stocks hold so much of the gains, where does that leave the rest of the market?00:03:41 Let’s focus on key periods of market concentration. How does the current environment compare to the dot-com bubble?00:04:11 And what about now versus the global financial crisis?00:04:40 What if investors pulled back due to market concentration concerns in the last decade? Why would that have backfired?00:05:51 How can investors manage the risk of market concentration in their portfolios?00:05:50 Morningstar has identified investment opportunities for 2026. Why does the team favor US small caps over US large caps?00:06:59 Another opportunity is the healthcare sector. What companies do Morningstar analysts think could fend off the competition for 10 years or more?00:07:35 Morningstar encourages international diversification. Can you talk about the regions outside the US that look attractive for stock investors?00:08:03 What’s the takeaway for diversifying beyond the Magnificent Seven in 2026?  Watch more from Morningstar: <a href="https://youtu.be/H3ZEDd3-EZw?si=2VRS5H-0Yxq01ZDX">9 Top ETFs for Income Inve

Plus, how to manage the risk of market concentration in your portfolio.

The Market Is All in on the Magnificent Seven. Where Should Investors Look Next?

This week, we’re looking back at three discussions we held earlier this year on Investing Insights about exchange-traded funds that income investors might find attractive. Morningstar ETF specialists, Bryan Armour and Dan Sotiroff, talked about dividend, bond, and covered-call ETFs in 2025.Subscribe to Morningstar’s <a href="https://newsletters.morningstar.com/mei/learn" target="_blank">ETFInvestor Newsletter</a>.On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:33 Dividend investing can result in exposure to factors like value, quality, and low volatility. Can you briefly explain one, what is factor investing, and then where do dividend ETFs typically land?00:03:21 How do you find a dividend ETF that provides the optimal, or just rightamount, of factor exposure? And what should appear on our checklist? 00:04:40 Four dividend ETFs hold Morningstar’s Medalist Rating of Gold. Let’s start with the two dividend growth ETFs from Vanguard that hold these marks.00:05:17 Explain why Vanguard’s top dividend income strategy also impressed Morningstar analysts.00:06:07 The final and fourth Gold-rated dividend ETF mixes both income and growth strategies. Talk about the one from Schwab.Bond ETFs are having a banner year. Why are investors turning to these investments?00:09:01 What makes a core bond ETF a solid portfolio building block?00:10:02What’s the top idea that’s received high marks from Morningstar?00:11:39We’re shifting from the least risky to the next level up, core-plus. What do these bond ETFs typically offer that an index-tracking ETF does not?00:11:21 Can you tell us one intermediate core-plus bond ETF that’s earned a Gold rating from Morningstar?00:11:56 Multisector bond ETFs take on a bit more risk than the previous two categories, and that comes with an expectation of more income. Should income investors skip the others and start here?00:13:11It’stime for the third top idea. What multisector bond ETF should folks consider?00:13:36 High-yield bond ETFs are the riskiest among the categories we’re discussing today. What additional risks are investors taking on for the juicy yields?00:14:42 Morningstar does not currently rate any actively managed high-yield bond ETFs. Is there one that income investors should watch?00:16:41What’s making covered-call ETFs so popular in 2025?00:17:09 Their yields lookvery high. What is d

A look at dividend, bond, and covered-call ETFs from Vanguard, Schwab, and more.

9 Top ETFs for Income Investors That Stood Out in 2025

Market volatility has left its imprint in 2025. Turbulence from tariffs, tech, and more have shaken investors’ confidence at times. Many folks looked for safety during those down periods. Yet, the US stock market overall has delivered a strong performance. So, who are the leaders and laggards as this year comes closer to wrapping up? And what should you watch with 2026 fast-approaching? Morningstar Indexes strategist and columnist Dan Lefkovitz has examined this year’s investment performance.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/5-investing-surprises-2025" target="_blank">5 Investing Surprises From 2025</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:02:45 Market volatility ebbed and flowed in 2025. How volatile was the US stock market this year compared to recent years? 00:03:51 What has driven the volatility this year? 00:05:16 During these down periods, where did investors hide or seek safety? 00:06:04 Let’s zoom in on the investment leaders and laggards this year. What areas are outperforming, and which ones are underperforming? 00:06:43 You research the performance of investment factors which can drive risk and return. What has been the leading factor this year, and why?00:08:32 Leadership changed throughout the year. What caused those changes? 00:09:33 Q4 will end in a few weeks. What areas should investors watch as we head into 2026? 00:11:22 We’ve discussed market volatility in 2025. What takeaways can we bring with us into the new year?  Watch more from Morningstar: <a href="https://youtu.be/SRl9uvGbvHQ?si=4PbDcdHhFy48qmgz" target="_blank">Why Betting Against Nvidia in the AI Arms Race Could Be a Mistake</a><a href="https://youtu.be/cvvxx62KhX0?si=ULDUx9CjXQsSxX4x" target="_blank">Here’s What Your Retirement Spending Rate Should Be in 2026</a><a href="https://youtu.be/Ht6RN_mUQwQ?si=d6_UvESHGxrzdSFe" target="_blank">How ETFs Help You Cut Your Tax Bill</a> Follow Morningstar on social:Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/MorningstarInc/</a>X <a href="https://x.com/MorningstarInc" target="_blank">https://x.com/MorningstarInc</a>Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/morningstarinc/?hl=en</a>LinkedIn <a href="htt

Plus, the investment leaders and laggards of 2025.

Where to Invest in 2026 After This Year’s Market Volatility

A shift in mindset can help investors cope with market uncertainty.2025 was a case study in the futility of trying to predict the market. Wall Street had lofty expectations for stocks entering the year. Then the tariff shock in April rattled the markets and many firms lowered their annual stock forecasts in response. They later raised them—after stock prices rebounded. With the new year on the horizon, Morningstar’s 2026 Global Outlook report is offering investors tactics to weather whatever the future may hold.Morningstar strategists and an analyst will discuss key challenges facing investors in 2026 in our series. Dan Kemp, the chief research and investment officer with Morningstar Investment Management Europe, is one of the major driving forces behind the report.We’re going to dig into research analyzing the AI arms race and its worldwide buildout. A team of Morningstar researchers have investigated the spending and the risks. Morningstar Research Services’ senior equity analyst Brian Colello was part of the effort. Brian also covers Nvidia. He discusses the AI king’s outlook, competition, and stock.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/financial-advisors/ai-arms-race-how-techs-capital-surge-will-reshape-investment-landscape-2026" target="_blank">AI Arms Race: How Tech’s Capital Surge Will Reshape the Investment Landscape in 2026</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:48 We typically talk about your Markets Brief column, but today we’re focusing on “Morningstar’s 2026 Global Investment Outlook.” The theme is “preparing for what comes next.” What will investors looking for ways to cope with uncertainty find in this in-depth report? 00:02:35 What makes Morningstar’s outlook different from other companies? 00:03:21You’ve written about how a few ideas from the global investment report resonated with you. What are they, and why? 00:05:01 As we wrap up our conversation, what’s a lesson from 2025 that you want investors to take into 2026?00:07:13 Big Tech companies are spending hundreds of billions of dollars on the global construction boom. Where’sthe money going, and how does this spending compare to other sectors like energy? 00:08:20 This massive buildout comes with execution and cost risks. What’s at stake if hyperscalers underestimate these challenges? 00:09:54 How is AI affecting sector valuations? How does it compare to the tech bubble in the

Plus, two affordable AI stocks and what investors need to know before 2026.

Why Betting Against Nvidia in the AI Arms Race Could Be a Mistake

Most retirees want to spend as much as they can without having to worry about running out of money. Morningstar’s State of Retirement Income research analyzes retirement spending strategies to determine the highest safe starting withdrawal rate for new retirees in 2026. Christine Benz, Morningstar’s director of personal finance and retirement planning and co-host of The Long View podcast, breaks down the research and shares some ideas about how you can boost your retirement spending.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/whats-safe-retirement-withdrawal-rate-2026" target="_blank">What’s a Safe Retirement Withdrawal Rate for 2026?</a>On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:00:46 Each year, you and your colleagues producethis really comprehensive research about retirement income. And as part of that research, you try toidentify what a safe withdrawal rate will be for the year ahead. 00:01:59 What is that safe withdrawal percentage, and how did you arrive at that conclusion?00:02:41 The 4% rule often comes up in the conversation around retirement spending. How does that compare to your base case?00:03:30 I know there are some misperceptions about your retirement income research and what that safe withdrawal percentage means. What are they? 00:03:28 So, how should retirees use this research?00:04:51 The safe starting withdrawal rate that you found in your base case might feel a little low for some retirees. Are there other strategies that retirees can use to boost their spending?00:07:02 So, flexible strategies are best suited for retirees that are focused on maximizing their spending. 00:08:52 What kind of retiree would benefit from a more rigid strategy, like the fixed inflation-adjusted spending approach that you use in your base case?00:09:26 How does asset allocation come into play? Would a stock-heavy portfolio support a higher withdrawal rate in retirement?00:10:36 So far, we’ve focused on portfolio income strategies, but you also looked at nonportfolio income sources like annuities and Social Security. What did you find?00:13:34 It seems like there’s some more nuance to the suggestion of delaying Social Security. Can you talk about that? 00:14:50 How about annuities? Can you discuss some of the key considerations that income-centric retirees should bear in mind?00:16:07 Studies have found that retirees don’t actually spend the s

New research shows that flexible withdrawal strategies can help you spend more in retirement.

Here’s What Your Retirement Spending Rate Should Be in 2026

Exchange-traded funds can help you cut your tax bill. All funds must distribute capital gains from the stocks and bonds that they sell throughout the year. The gains can leave you stuck with unwanted taxes. ETFs and mutual funds differ when it comes to tax efficiency. It starts with how the investments are traded and how the transactions are treated. The differences can result in ETF investors owing less than mutual fund investors or nothing at all because ETFs can minimize their capital gain distributions. Bryan Armour, Morningstar’s director of ETF and passive strategies research for North America, explains how ETFs beat mutual funds at the tax game.<a href="https://www.morningstar.com/funds/etfs-vs-mutual-funds-benefits-that-really-matter" target="_blank">ETFs vs. Mutual Funds: The Benefits That Really Matter</a> On this episode:00:00:00 Welcome00:01:01 ETFs are more tax-friendly than their mutual fund rivals. Why is that?00:02:17 How does the way ETFs are traded limit the tax drag that affects mutual funds?00:03:23 ETF investors will eventually pay a tax bill. Why is it important to control when that happens?00:04:04We talked about tax drag. What about cash drag? How are ETFs winning here?00:04:51An ETF’s underlying strategy can sharpen or dull the edge it has over a mutual fund when it comes to capital gains. Which ETF strategies have held the biggest advantage over the past few years?00:05:40Can you talk about the tax issues involving international stocks when managing gains in an ETF?00:06:55And what about taxable-bond ETFs versus mutual funds?00:07:37 Some ETFs do not benefit from tax efficiency. Which investments are those, and why don’t they?00:08:24High-turnover strategies, where there’s a lot of buying and selling, can result in a big tax bill for investors. What have you found when you compared two momentum strategies?00:08:58How can outflows leave loyal investors with a big tax bill?00:09:49Active ETFs’ popularity is soaring. How tax-friendly are these investments versus their passive peers and mutual funds?00:10:52 Which ETFs belong in taxable accounts and tax-advantaged accounts like an IRA or 401(k) to maximize tax efficiency?00:11:55What if someone listening or watching just realized they should work on their asset location? What should they do?00:12:54What’s the takeaway for using ETFs to cut t

Also, a look at the exchange-traded funds that are tax-efficient and those that are not.

How ETFs Help You Cut Your Tax Bill

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