Learn about the U.S. national debt and how it impacts economics and what options to explore if your employer-offered 401k plan seems limiting.

What exactly does it mean when you read about the enormous national debt in the United States? What options do you have if you’re not happy with the 401k plan offered by your employer? Hosts Sean Pyles and Elizabeth Ayoola dig into investing options with NerdWallet personal finance lead writer June Sham. But first, NerdWallet senior news writer Anna Helhoski joins the show to break down what exactly is the national debt, who does the U.S. owe, and why it matters to everyday Americans.

Next, Sean, Elizabeth and June answer a listener’s question about whether it’s worth it to invest in their employee-offered 401k plan even if it feels limiting. The Nerds explain the pros and cons of a 401k as well as alternative options to explore, including a brokerage account or an IRA, and why you don’t have to limit yourself to just one type of account.

NerdWallet’s list of best IRA accounts:

https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/investing/ira-accounts

Choose the best retirement plan: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/best-retirement-plans-for-you

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: national debt, what is the national debt, how much is the US in debt, US debt ceiling explained, difference between debt and deficit, publicly held debt, intragovernmental debt, who owns the US debt, debt to GDP ratio, US debt crisis, what happens if the US defaults, national debt impact on economy, foreign holders of US debt, Congressional Budget Office debt projections, US budget deficit, treasury securities explained, debt ceiling vs national debt, federal spending and tax revenue, 401k vs brokerage account, should I invest in a 401k without a match, 401k managed by insurance company, 401k fees and disclosure rules, retirement investment options, Roth IRA vs 401k, traditional 401k benefits, taxable brokerage account vs 401k, 401k contribution limits 2025, early 401k withdrawal penalties, required minimum distributions 401k, investment fees and expense ratios, choosing a Roth IRA provider, best retirement account for long-term growth, retirement planning tips, comparing retirement accounts, 401k rollover options, best Roth IRA accounts 2025.

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com.

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