October 10, 2026

As vehicle prices continue to climb, consumers are stretching their loans to seven, eight, and even nine years to make monthly payments more manageable. But what does that extended financing really cost? We examine the financial consequences of longer auto loans before turning to the opportunities higher interest rates may present for savers. With certain fixed-income investments offering yields above inflation, we discuss why a strong stock market and attractive bond yields could make this an opportune time to replenish liquidity reserves under our Ten Year Rule.

Plus, we tackle two listener questions involving company stock and decisions that could have significant financial consequences. First, if you're retiring with highly appreciated employer stock in your 401(k), should you roll it into an IRA or transfer it to a taxable brokerage account? We explain how net unrealized appreciation (NUA) works and the tax considerations that could influence that decision. Then, when a company announces an all-cash acquisition, why does its stock continue trading below the agreed-upon purchase price? We explore whether investors should sell before the deal closes, hold out for the full buyout price, or consider buying additional shares to capture what looks like an easy return—and the risks that could make that opportunity less certain than it appears.

Join hosts Nick Antonucci, CVA, CEPA, Director of Research, and Managing Associates K.C. Smith, CFP®, CEPA, and D.J. Barker, CWS®, and Kelly-Lynne Scalice, a seasoned communicator and host, on Henssler Money Talks as they explore key financial strategies to help investors navigate market uncertainty.

Timestamps and Chapters

  • 6:01: 84 Months and Still $700 a Month?
  • 26:43: When Higher Rates Work in Your Favor
  • 35:31: Before You Roll Over That Company Stock
  • 46:06: The Buyout Premium: Is It Free Money?

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Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.
This article is for demonstrative and academic purposes and is meant to provide valuable background information on particular investments, NOT a recommendation to buy. The investments referenced within this article may currently be traded by Henssler Financial. All material presented is compiled from sources believed to be reliable and current, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The contents are intended for general information purposes only. Information provided should not be the sole basis in making any decisions and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional, such as a tax consultant, insurance adviser or attorney. Although this material is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter, it may not apply in all situations. Readers are urged to consult with their adviser concerning specific situations and questions. This is not to be construed as an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments. It is not our intention to state, indicate or imply in any manner that current or past results are indicative of future profitability or expectations. As with all investments, there are associated inherent risks. Please obtain and review all financial material carefully before investing. Henssler is not licensed to offer or sell insurance products, and this overview is not to be construed as an offer to purchase any insurance products.
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