Investing for Americans Abroad and U.S. Expats | Gimme Some Truth for Expats

Walkner Condon Financial Advisors for U.S. Expats
  • 4.4 (7)
  • Investing
  • Updated Bimonthly

For many Americans, living abroad is the dream. But the reality of being a U.S. expat, particularly when it comes to finances and attempting to invest from outside of the United States, can quickly turn into a nightmare with the complexities involved. With first-hand expat experience and their professional background in working with U.S. expats, financial advisors Keith Poniewaz, PhD.; Stan Farmer, CFP®, J.D.; and Syl Michelin, CFP®, cover an assortment of key topics U.S. expats and Americans abroad should know about investing and finances, whether they're already abroad or planning a move.

  1. Americans Moving to Europe: The Financial Pitfalls You Don't See Coming

    6d ago

    Americans Moving to Europe: The Financial Pitfalls You Don't See Coming

    Moving to Europe? Before you pack your bags, make sure your finances are ready. In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, Nate, Stan, and Syl break down the most common — and costly — financial mistakes Americans make when moving abroad. From mishandling US retirement accounts to holding the wrong investments in a foreign country, these errors can cost you thousands in unnecessary taxes and penalties. Whether you're planning a move to France, Germany, the Netherlands, or anywhere in the EU, this video covers what you need to know about 529 plans, IRAs, 401(k)s, TSP rollovers, tax treaties, and building a portable investment portfolio. 🔑 Key topics covered: — Why you need to talk to a financial advisor BEFORE you move — How 529 plans and custodial accounts create problems overseas — IRA and 401(k) rollover strategies for expats — Country-by-country tax rules across Europe — The TSP rollover trap (and the major tax savings opportunity most people miss) — How to choose the right advisor for an international move 📌 Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction & Overview0:27 – Why Timing Matters: Contact an Advisor Before You Move1:32 – Three Categories of Common Mistakes2:27 – US-Specific Account Structures: 529 Plans & Custodial Accounts5:34 – Why 529 Plans Are a Problem in Europe7:47 – IRAs, 401(k)s & Retirement Account Rollovers9:27 – Country-by-Country Tax Rules in Europe11:14 – Tax Treaties & Government Pension Plans14:39 – The TSP Rollover Trap: A Major Tax Savings Opportunity16:31 – Investment Holdings & Portability of Portfolios18:03 – Choosing the Right Advisor for International Moves20:23 – Disclaimers 📩 Thinking about moving abroad? Reach out to Walkner Condon for guidance on your specific situation. #MovingToEurope #AmericanExpat #ExpatFinance #ExpatTaxes #401k #IRA #TSP #529Plan #InternationalTax #FinancialPlanning #ExpatLife #movingabroad 🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement: 👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth- @usexpatinvesting and @walknercondon 🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors: Visit: https://walknercondon.com 🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat? We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad: Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com 📣 Connect with Us on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

    20 min
  2. Moving to France? Estate Planning, Inheritance Tax & Real Estate Tips for Americans

    May 11

    Moving to France? Estate Planning, Inheritance Tax & Real Estate Tips for Americans

    Thinking about moving to France or buying French real estate? In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we talk with Philippe Henky from Squair Law, a French tax attorney with over 10 years of experience advising U.S. nationals on French tax law, estate planning, and cross-border real estate transactions. Philippe walks through the biggest financial and legal pitfalls Americans face when relocating to France — from inheritance taxes that can reach 45–60% to forced heirship rules that may override your U.S. estate plan. We cover practical strategies like usufruct (division of ownership), how to structure property purchases (share deal vs. asset deal), and why the difference between a holiday home and a primary residence matters more than you think. We also unpack a common source of confusion: the U.S.–France income tax treaty vs. the estate tax treaty, and why mixing them up can be costly. Plus, Philippe explains how French law treats U.S. trusts (spoiler: not the way you'd expect) and why you should always get your own notary and attorney when buying property in France. Whether you're planning a permanent move, purchasing a vacation home, or just exploring your options, this episode gives you the framework to make smarter decisions — ideally before you sign anything. Key topics covered: French inheritance tax rates (45–60%) and how to reduce your exposureUsufruct and division of ownership strategiesDo Americans need a French will? Understanding forced heirship rulesElecting U.S. law in a French willU.S.– France income tax treaty vs. estate tax treatyHow trusts are taxed under French lawBuying property in France: holiday home vs. primary residence structuringShare deal vs. asset deal when acquiring French real estateWhy you must plan before you buyChoosing your own notary and legal counsel📩 Contact Philippe Henky at Squair Law: https://www.squairlaw.com/en Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction & Philippe's background 2:27 – French inheritance tax overview (rates up to 45–60%) 3:15 – Usufruct/division of ownership strategy 4:23 – Income tax vs. inheritance tax in France 5:26 – Do you need a French will? Forced heirship rules 7:33 – Electing U.S. law in your French will 16:12 – U.S.–France income tax treaty vs. estate tax treaty 17:40 – How trusts are taxed in France 19:21 – Real estate: planning before you buy 20:09 – Holiday home vs. primary residence structuring 21:47 – Share deals vs. asset deals for French property 23:04 – Always get your own notary and counsel 23:57 – Closing thoughts & key takeaways 🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors:Visit: https://walknercondon.com 🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat?Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com 📣 Connect with Us on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

    27 min
  3. Q1 2026 Analysis: Geopolitical Tensions, The Saas Selloff, and Volatility Returns

    Apr 20

    Q1 2026 Analysis: Geopolitical Tensions, The Saas Selloff, and Volatility Returns

    Join hosts Syl Michelin, CFA and Clint Walkner as they break down the key market themes from Q1 2026. In this episode, Syl and Clint cut through the headlines to focus on what the market is actually telling investors — covering geopolitical tensions, energy prices, AI infrastructure spending, the SaaS selloff, crypto, gold, bonds, and international stocks. From the 10% market correction to the value vs. growth repricing, they analyze what matters most for your portfolio in 2026. Whether you're evaluating US mega cap tech valuations after the selloff, considering international diversification, or wondering if bonds deserve a place in your portfolio, this episode delivers data-driven market analysis you can act on. Topics covered: Q1 2026 market recap, geopolitical risk and market corrections, oil prices in historical context, AI energy demand and infrastructure, SaaS creative destruction, value vs. growth investing, crypto and gold performance, market timing pitfalls, bond investing in 2026, international stocks vs. US stocks, non-USD diversification strategies. 📌 Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction & Q1 2026 Market Overview 0:29 – Disconnect Between Headlines & Market Reality 1:27 – Geopolitical Tensions & the 10% Market Correction 2:35 – Oil Prices in Historical Context 3:55 – AI Infrastructure & the Energy Demand Problem 7:20 – The SaaS Apocalypse & Creative Destruction 9:55 – Value vs. Growth Repricing in Q1 2026 10:40 – US Mega Cap Tech Valuations After the Selloff 11:10 – Crypto & Gold Selloff Explained 13:54 – Why Timing the Market Around Events Fails 16:34 – International Stocks vs. US Stocks 17:57 – The Case for Bonds in 2026 18:54 – International Bonds & Non-USD Diversification 🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement: 👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth- @usexpatinvesting and @walknercondon 🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors: Visit: https://walknercondon.com 🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat? We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad: Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com 📣 Connect with Us on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

    19 min
  4. Portugal Update with Zeev Fisher: Good News on NHR 2.0, Bad News on Citizenship Timeline

    Apr 9

    Portugal Update with Zeev Fisher: Good News on NHR 2.0, Bad News on Citizenship Timeline

    🇵🇹 Portugal just made two major moves in one week — and if you're pursuing residency, a Golden Visa, NHR 2.0 tax status, or citizenship, you need to hear this. On March 31, Portugal's tax authority released pending decisions on NHR 2.0 (the successor to the Non-Habitual Resident regime), approving applications across the board. On April 1, parliament voted on a nationality reform bill that could move citizenship eligibility from 5 years to 10 years — and reset the clock to your first residence card, not your Golden Visa approval date. Returning guest Zeev from Fresh Portugal helps break down exactly what happened, what it means, and what to do next. In this episode: - 📋 NHR 2.0 approvals explained — what the merit-based structure actually requires - 💼 How foreign-sourced income exemptions work under NHR 2.0 (startup roles, certified economic activity) - 🗳️ What parliament voted on and how it affects Golden Visa cohorts from 2021–2024 - ⏳ Why processing delays happened and whether they're improving - ✅ Key takeaways for anyone planning a Portugal move in 2026 ⚠️ Important: Portugal's rules are changing fast. Always work with qualified professionals before making decisions. 🔗 Chapters 00:00 Portugal Updates Intro 01:14 NHR 2.0 Decisions Drop 04:26 How NHR 2.0 Works 07:46 Nationality Reform Vote 10:07 Stan Reacts and Impacts 14:13 Processing Delays and Causes 18:28 What Changes Long Term 21:30 Wrap Up and Key Takeaway Learn more about Fresh Portugal at https://freshportugal.com Read the blog - https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/portugals-nhr-2-0-a-guide-for-u-s-expats-to-the-new-tisri-tax-incentives/ 🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement: 👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth- @usexpatinvesting and @walknercondon 🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors: Visit: https://walknercondon.com 🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat? We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad: Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com 📣 Connect with Us on Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

    24 min
  5. Living the Expat Life: Introducing Our Newest Team Member, Felipe Quaassdorff

    Apr 6

    Living the Expat Life: Introducing Our Newest Team Member, Felipe Quaassdorff

    In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our team, Felipe Quaassdorff. Joining Stan Farmer, Felipe brings a powerhouse of international experience—moving from Chile to the U.S. and earning his CFA charter along the way.Being an expat isn't just a career path for Felipe; it’s a lived experience. We discuss the hurdles of starting from scratch in a new country, the nuances of cross-border wealth management, and how a deep background in equity research and fixed income creates a massive advantage for our clients.What you’ll learn in this episode:- The Expat Journey: The personal and professional challenges of relocating internationally.- CFA + CFP Power: Why combining investment rigors with holistic planning is the gold standard.- Global Markets: How interest rates impact equity valuations and what that means for your portfolio in 2026.- The Tech Edge: A sneak peek at how we use AI tools like Notebook LM to better serve our community.Whether you are an American living abroad or a foreign national moving to the States, understanding the intersection of global markets and personal finance is key to your success.🕒 Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:34 Building the Expat Team01:53 Felipe’s Journey to Finance04:34 Moving to the US05:30 CFA Meets CFP08:01 Life as an Expat09:29 Fixed Income Trading Desk11:34 Rates and Client Portfolios13:21 Equity Valuation and Rates14:22 AI Tools at the Firm15:27 Closing Banter#ExpatFinance #FinancialAdvisor #CFA #CFP #InternationalInvesting #WealthManagement #CrossBorder #ChileToUSA #FixedIncome #InterestRates #GimmeSomeTruth #NotebookLMWelcome Felipe to the team! Have a question about expat taxes or international portfolio management? Drop it below or book a discovery call here: www.usexpatinvesting.com.SUBSCRIBE: @usexpatinvestingFor more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.usexpatinvesting.com————————————————ADD US ON:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/walkner-condon-financial-advisors-llc Facebook: https://facebook.com/usexpatingvesting

    16 min
  6. Investing & Financial Planning for US Expats in Japan

    Mar 23

    Investing & Financial Planning for US Expats in Japan

    Moving to Japan as an American? The "Land of the Rising Sun" offers incredible culture and lifestyle, but for US citizens, it also brings a web of financial and tax complexities. In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we break down exactly what you need to know to protect your wealth and stay compliant.In this video, we cover:- The 5-Year "Grace Period": How Japan’s Non-Permanent Resident regime works (and why your first 5 years are tax-friendly).- The Global Tax Shift: What happens on year 6 when your worldwide income becomes taxable in Japan.- The Exit Tax: Why leaving Japan with assets over 100 million yen (~$600,000) could trigger a massive tax bill.- Investment Roadblocks: Why many US platforms (like Vanguard or Schwab) may limit your account once you move.- Inheritance & Gift Taxes: Japan’s unique "Forced Heirship" rules vs. US testamentary freedom.Strategic planning is critical. Whether you are a corporate expat or moving long-term, understanding the interplay between US and Japanese tax laws can save you thousands.📖 RESOURCES & LINKSFull Written Guide: Visit www.usexpatinvesting.com (Available later this year!)Subscribe for more Expat Finance Tips:  @usexpatinvesting  ⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro: Moving to Japan1:30 Japan’s 5-Year Non-Permanent Resident Rule4:15 Transitioning to Worldwide Taxation (Year 6+)7:00 Investment Challenges for US Citizens Abroad9:45 Japan’s Exit Tax & The 100M Yen Threshold12:30 Inheritance, Gifts, and Forced Heirship15:00 Final Checklist & Strategic Planning#JapanExpat #MovingToJapan #ExpatFinance #USExpats #TaxPlanning #InternationalTax #JapanLife #FinancialPlanningAre you planning a move or already living abroad? Our team specializes in cross-border wealth management. www.usexpatinvesting.comFor more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.usexpatinvesting.com————————————————ADD US ON:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/walkner-condon-financial-advisors-llc Facebook: https://facebook.com/usexpatingvesting

    14 min
  7. The Best Brokerage Accounts for U.S. Expats (Don’t Get Locked Out!)

    Mar 9

    The Best Brokerage Accounts for U.S. Expats (Don’t Get Locked Out!)

    Most American investors don't realize that their brokerage relationship often "breaks" the moment they move overseas. In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we discuss why U.S. retail brokerages are closing expat accounts and how to choose the right custodian before you relocate.From FATCA compliance to the "liquidation-only" trap, we break down the complexities of being a U.S. person living abroad. We also expose the dangers of using a "fake" U.S. address (like a relative's house) and why that strategy can lead to massive tax and legal headaches.What You’ll Learn:- The FATCA Factor: Why foreign banks don't want U.S. clients and why U.S. banks don't want foreign addresses.- Account Freezes: Why your brokerage might give you a 30-day notice to move your assets.- The "Address Trap": The risks of using PO Boxes or family addresses to keep your account open.- Retail vs. Institutional: Why advisor-sponsored platforms often have broader international capabilities than standard retail accounts.- Country-Specific Rules: Why the "best" brokerage for an expat in Germany might be different than one in Japan. https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/what-is-the-best-brokerage-for-expats/Timestamps:0:00 Welcome: The Expat Investing Crisis0:45 Why your current brokerage might not work abroad2:09 FATCA Explained: The pressure on expat banking3:40 Why there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution4:39 The Dangers of "Fake" U.S. Addresses6:31 Essential planning steps BEFORE you move8:47 Retail vs. Advisor-Led Institutional Accounts11:21 Why brokerages "kick out" international clients13:22 How to be proactive with your expat wealth14:24 Disclosures & Wrap UpRead the corresponding blog for more details: Are you planning a move or already living abroad? Our team specializes in cross-border wealth management. www.usexpatinvesting.com#ExpatInvesting #USExpats #FATCA #FinancialPlanning #MovingAbroad #CrossBorderWealth #BrokerageAccountsSUBSCRIBE: @usexpatinvestingFor more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.usexpatinvesting.com————————————————ADD US ON:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/walkner-condon-financial-advisors-llc Facebook: https://facebook.com/usexpatingvesting

    16 min
  8. How Fed Chair Kevin Warsh Will Impact Your Investments in 2026

    Feb 23

    How Fed Chair Kevin Warsh Will Impact Your Investments in 2026

    Kevin Warsh has been nominated as the next Federal Reserve Chair for 2026. What does this leadership shift mean for your wallet? In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we analyze the Warsh nomination and its immediate impact on monetary policy, interest rates, and the global markets.As Jerome Powell prepares to hand over the gavel, Kevin Warsh brings a distinct philosophy to the FOMC—balancing a "hawkish" view on the Fed’s balance sheet with a unique perspective on AI-driven productivity. We dive deep into whether this marks a regime change for inflation targets and how investors should position their portfolios for the "Warsh Era."🔍 Key Insights in This Episode:- The Warsh Philosophy: Why his stance on Quantitative Easing (QE) differs from his predecessors.- The AI Factor: How Warsh views AI productivity as a tool to combat inflation.- The Powell Transition: Will Jerome Powell remain on the Fed Board of Governors?- 2026 Rate Outlook: Predictions for interest rate cuts or hikes under new leadership.- Portfolio Strategy: How to trade gold, the US Dollar, and commodities during this transition.📊 Investment Strategy:Is it time to rotate out of growth or double down on commodities? Our team discuss the "Warsh Pivot" and what it means for Federal Reserve independence in 2026 and beyond.Read the blog - https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/kevin-warsh-federal-reserve-independence-and-the-future-of-the-u-s-dollar/ #KevinWarsh #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Inflation2026 #StockMarketNews #InvestingStrategy #FedChair #JeromePowell⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction: The New Fed Chair0:45 - Kevin Warsh Nomination: Why Now?3:15 - The Confirmation Process & Market Volatility6:00 - Warsh on QE & The Fed’s Balance Sheet10:30 - The Dual Mandate: Shifting Focus?16:45 - The Jerome Powell "Board Member" Question22:30 - Quantitative Tightening (QT) Challenges29:00 - AI Productivity: The Secret to Low Inflation?39:00 - Portfolio Moves: Should You Sell or Hold?46:00 - History Lesson: From Jekyll Island to 2026SUBSCRIBE: @walknercondon For more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://usexpatinvesting.com/blog/kevin-warsh-federal-reserve-independence-and-the-future-of-the-u-s-dollar/Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.usexpatinvesting.com ————————————————ADD US ON:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/walkner-condon-financial-advisors-llc Facebook: https://facebook.com/walknercondon

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

For many Americans, living abroad is the dream. But the reality of being a U.S. expat, particularly when it comes to finances and attempting to invest from outside of the United States, can quickly turn into a nightmare with the complexities involved. With first-hand expat experience and their professional background in working with U.S. expats, financial advisors Keith Poniewaz, PhD.; Stan Farmer, CFP®, J.D.; and Syl Michelin, CFP®, cover an assortment of key topics U.S. expats and Americans abroad should know about investing and finances, whether they're already abroad or planning a move.

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