When evaluating a fund, one of the first sets of numbers you'll likely look up is its past returns. But those are not the returns that owners of that fund actually earned. Robert Brokamp speaks with Morningstar’s Jeff Ptak about which investor behaviors and types of funds are more associated with underperformance. Also in this episode: -The Russell 2000 finally surpassed its 2021 peak – what’s behind the small-cap surge?-The Treasury Department has released preliminary guidance about “no tax on tips”-The spread in yields between investment-grade corporates and Treasuries is the smallest it’s been since 1998-A lesson from the life and recent death of financial journalist Jonathan Clements: Don’t delay your bucket list until retirement Investments discussed: VOO, QQQ, VTWO, IWC Host: Robert BrokampGuest: Jeff PtakEngineer: Bart Shannon Advertisements are sponsored content and provided for informational purposes only. The Motley Fool and its affiliates (collectively, "TMF") do not endorse, recommend, or verify the accuracy or completeness of the statements made within advertisements. TMF is not involved in the offer, sale, or solicitation of any securities advertised herein and makes no representations regarding the suitability, or risks associated with any investment opportunity presented. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult with legal, tax, and financial advisors before making any investment decisions. TMF assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages arising from this advertisement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.