The Lebenthal Report Episode #185: Markets, Fed Pressure & SBA Loans Explained

On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael Hartzman and guest co-host Andrew Gilmartin break down the latest market movements, Federal Reserve developments, and the real impact of global headlines on investing in 2026.

Despite geopolitical tensions and rapidly shifting news cycles, markets have remained surprisingly resilient, with strong year-to-date gains across the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq. The hosts dive into why headlines are driving short-term volatility—and why long-term investors should focus on fundamentals like corporate earnings, inflation, and oil prices.

They also unpack the growing scrutiny around the Federal Reserve, including the nomination of Kevin Warsh and what political pressure could mean for interest rates, inflation, and economic stability.

The highlight of the episode features a deep dive into the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) with Regional Administrator Matt Coleman. Learn how SBA loans work, who qualifies, and why government-backed lending plays a critical role in fueling entrepreneurship and economic growth. With nearly 99% of U.S. businesses classified as small businesses, the SBA remains a key engine of the American economy.

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Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc is a FINRA registered Broker Dealer. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc and its representatives can be found on FINRA’s BrokerCheck website, https://brokercheck.finra.org/

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Market Update & Client Appreciation Brunch 2026

The Lebenthal Report Episode #184: Calm in the Chaos - What Markets Know That Headlines Don’t

The world feels chaotic… What’s really driving markets right now?

With geopolitical tensions rising, oil shocks hitting global markets, and nonstop headline risk, investors are asking one question: Why is the market holding up so well?

On this episode, Michael Hartzman and Andrew Gilmartin are joined by JP Morgan Global Market Strategist Jack Manley to break it all down.

They cover:

  • Why markets remain surprisingly resilient despite global chaos

  • How energy shocks impact inflation, growth, and consumer behavior

  • Why today’s economy is fundamentally different from past crises

  • The hidden volatility beneath the surface of the market

  • What AI, fiscal policy, and consumer strength mean going forward

  • How global markets (and China) fit into the picture

The key takeaway?

The market may look calm—but underneath, there’s a lot more happening than meets the eye.

If you’re trying to make sense of today’s environment, this is a must-listen.

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Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc is a FINRA registered Broker Dealer. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc and its representatives can be found on FINRA’s BrokerCheck website, https://brokercheck.finra.org/

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The Lebenthal Report Episode #183: The $150 Oil Question: Recession or Recovery?

On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael Hartzman and Dominick Tavella break down a rapidly shifting market landscape driven by geopolitical tension, rising oil prices, and growing uncertainty.

With major indices pulling back and oil nearing critical levels, the big question becomes: Is there an off-ramp—or are markets heading for more turbulence?

They’re joined by returning guest John Eade, President & CEO of Argus Research, a trusted voice who has appeared on the show multiple times, to provide insight into today’s volatile environment.

Together they discuss:

  • The impact of rising oil prices on inflation and consumers

  • Why markets have pulled back—but not panicked

  • The outlook for interest rates and Fed policy

  • Whether recession fears are justified

  • Why the long-term bull market may still be intact

  • Where AI-driven opportunities are emerging beyond big tech

Despite short-term uncertainty, strong fundamentals—from consumer balance sheets to continued investment in AI—may still support markets going forward.

Listen here: https://thelebenthalreport.libsyn.com/the-lebenthal-report-march-24th-2026

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Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc is a FINRA registered Broker Dealer. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc and its representatives can be found on FINRA’s BrokerCheck website, https://brokercheck.finra.org/

The Lebenthal Report Episode #182: The Rise of AI Companions | The Friend Machine

Markets are under pressure as oil prices surge and geopolitical tensions escalate.

But beyond the headlines, a different kind of transformation is happening — one that’s far more personal.

On this episode of The Lebenthal Report, Michael Hartzman and Dominick Tavella break down:

  • The market impact of rising oil prices and global conflict

  • Why gas prices are climbing despite strong U.S. supply

  • The growing risk of a stagflation-like environment

  • How long consumers can absorb higher costs

Then, they’re joined by author Victoria Hetherington, whose new book, The Friend Machine, explores the rapidly emerging world of AI companionship.

They discuss:

  • Why people are forming emotional connections with AI

  • Who benefits most — from seniors to the socially isolated

  • The psychological and ethical risks of AI relationships

  • Privacy concerns and how personal data is used

  • Whether AI enhances human connection — or replaces it

As AI moves beyond productivity into personal relationships, the question becomes:

Are we improving human life — or redefining it entirely?

🎧 Listen now for a conversation at the intersection of markets, technology, and human behavior.

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Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc is a FINRA registered Broker Dealer. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc and its representatives can be found on FINRA’s BrokerCheck website, https://brokercheck.finra.org/

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The Lebenthal Report Episode #181: Stagflation Is Back? What Investors Need to Know

This week on The Lebenthal Report, Michael Hartzman and Dominick Tavella discuss the market reaction to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, rising oil prices, and what it really means for investors.

Despite alarming headlines — oil briefly hitting $120 per barrel and fears about the Strait of Hormuz — markets have remained surprisingly resilient.

Then the hosts welcome Michael “Macro Mike” LoGalbo, Global Market Strategist at New York Life, to break down the macro backdrop:

• Why markets may be underpricing geopolitical risk

• The real impact of $100+ oil on the global economy

• Why inflation may remain stubbornly high

• What a K-shaped economy means for spending and growth

• Whether the Fed will still cut rates this year

• And why stagflation is becoming a word investors may hear again

The conversation also explores how global power dynamics, China’s economic strategy, and energy markets are reshaping the investment landscape.

As always, the message is simple:

Stay calm. Stay disciplined. And focus on long-term fundamentals.

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Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor. Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc is a FINRA registered Broker Dealer. The content of this podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Global Advisors, LLC is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc and its representatives can be found on FINRA’s BrokerCheck website, https://brokercheck.finra.org/

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