Now that the election is behind us, it is safe to say that Trump’s victory was unexpected. Just like the Brexit vote back in June, his victory raised more questions than it answered. It has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and markets typically respond to uncertainty with heighted volatility. So what does this mean for…
DetailsAn Investment Policy Statement (IPS) is a document designed to establish a clear understanding between an Investor and an Advisor as to the goals and management policies applicable to the Investor’s investment portfolio. It clearly articulates the responsibilities of both parties. An IPS will document the following: The client’s current financial situation;The client’s objectives for…
DetailsI was recently interviewed by Gary Foreman of the website DollarStretcher.com about the role of dividends in a retirement portfolio.
DetailsNo matter the age of your children, whether they are toddlers or even adults themselves, being a parent is not easy. Neither is being an investor. Ironically, the rules for succeeding at both – parenting and investing – are quite similar.
DetailsLet’s face it, much of the traditional financial services industry has failed to serve investors properly. A sales-driven culture and an active-management investment model has left investors frustrated and wondering if there is a better way.
DetailsAn investment portfolio with a mix of stocks and bonds will produce three types of investment return: interest, dividends and capital gains. Added together, they make up what is known as “total return”. Inside an IRA or other qualified account, the relative mix of investment return does not matter. A 5% return is a 5% return, regardless of whether it comes from interest, dividends or capital gains. In a taxable investment account, however, the story is much different.
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As financial advisors, people rely on us to provide direction regarding their financial well-being. Confusion can arise when the advice that we offer is not consistent with the news headlines, the “promising” strategies, the “surefire” bets and the sophisticated products being touted by the media. While we are always open to learning about potential opportunities…
DetailsLast night, I was sitting at my 10-year old son’s little league playoff game. It was the last inning – bottom of the 6th – and we were up 5-2 with 2 outs and a full count on the batter. Our pitcher threw a curveball that coasted across the back corner of the plate –…
DetailsHigh earners who would otherwise be excluded from contributing to a Roth IRA may want to consider this strategy. If ever there were a tax-efficient saving vehicle, it is the Roth IRA. It can: Provide you with the double benefit of tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals in retirement Is not subject to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)…
DetailsIn today’s world, there are several different types of investment firms, but with important differences between them that confuse not only consumers but even many investment professionals. The short article below provides a basic overview of the various types of firms and how they differ. “Brand Name” Brokerage Firms Much investment advice in the U.S.…
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