FAQs
Wouldn't it be safer to avoid stocks due to their inherent risks?
Though the stock market involves risk, risk itself is subjective—it doesn’t simply mean losses, but rather the natural fluctuations in value over time. Unlike gambling, investing is not about chance; it is about owning real businesses that grow, innovate, and generate value. Historically, the stock market has trended upward despite periods of volatility, rewarding those who stay invested with a disciplined approach. Diversification across high-quality companies helps manage uncertainty while maintaining strong growth potential. When approached strategically, risk becomes a tool for wealth building, not just a downside to fear.
What advantages does professional management of individual stocks offer over self-managing a portfolio of funds?
Professional management of individual stocks allows for a deep understanding of what you own, providing transparency and control that funds cannot match. This knowledge enables strategic tax planning and the potential for higher returns by capitalizing on undervalued opportunities. Unlike funds, where investment decisions are largely out of your hands, selecting individual stocks offers more direct involvement and flexibility in building your portfolio. While funds offer ease, they often come with hidden costs and less personalization. Our approach enables that your investments are actively managed with insight and precision, offering both control and clarity.
Given the current global economic uncertainties, why should one invest in stocks?
Despite the current economic instability, stocks can still present avenues for growth. Downturns in the market often result in stocks being available at discounted rates, allowing investors to purchase shares in robust companies at a bargain. Over time, stock markets have demonstrated an ability to bounce back from crises, with long-term investments in equities often yielding substantial returns, particularly when guided by a calculated, research-driven strategy. Moreover, navigating these uncertain times with a well-planned investment approach might just uncover some of the most lucrative opportunities. Remember, there will always be uncertainty around the world; there is never a perfect time to get in, which underscores the importance of a disciplined approach, regardless of the economic climate.
If my investment portfolio consists solely of stocks, how do I achieve diversification?
We believe you can achieve diversification within a stock-only portfolio by investing across various industries, company sizes, and geographic regions. Different sectors respond uniquely to market conditions, helping to balance risk and opportunity. Large companies offer stability, while smaller firms provide growth potential, creating a mix of security and upside. Expanding beyond domestic markets also reduces reliance on a single economy. A well-structured stock portfolio spreads risk while maintaining strong long-term growth potential.
What are REITs?
REITs, or Real Estate Investment Trusts, are companies that own, operate, or finance income-producing real estate. They allow individuals to invest in a diversified portfolio of properties—such as office buildings, apartments, shopping centers, or hotels—without needing to buy or manage the properties themselves. By law, REITs must distribute at least 90% of their taxable income to shareholders as dividends, which can provide a steady income stream. They are publicly traded on stock exchanges, much like stocks, offering high liquidity and making them easily accessible to investors seeking exposure to real estate markets. REITs serve as a practical avenue for real estate investment, potentially adding diversification and dividend income to your portfolio.
A Few Key Questions for Selecting Your Investment Firm ...
Are they Experienced?
Do they have years of true investment experience? Time spent selling investment products or financial planning does not count. How many years have they been actively investing?
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Are they successful investors?
Do you believe they have been successful investors over time? Look beyond appearances or mere talk.
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Do they eat their own cooking?
In other words, do they invest alongside you in the same investments they recommend? If they are good enough for their clients, they should be good enough for themselves. If they are not strongly invested in the same stocks, that is a red flag.
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What are their hours?
Financial markets start early. In California, foreign currency, bond, and stock markets are open by 6:30 am. True professionals are in before that, scanning financial news, checking overnight foreign markets, and getting a feel for the market before it opens. If they are starting after the markets are open, it might be a concern.
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What do they do?
This might seem simple, but it is crucial. Are they just salespeople with a different title? Are they actively managing your money all day, or are they just placing it somewhere, taking a fee, and then looking for more clients? How do they spend their day?
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How did you meet?
Did you find this person, or did they find you through solicitation, cold calls, advertising, seminars, or other sales tactics? If so, consider how they spend their time. Successful professionals usually do not need to seek new clients; clients come to them.
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Did you shake hands?
Most investors have not met their portfolio manager. At large investment firms, clients are often not allowed to communicate directly with their portfolio manager. Salespeople manage most accounts with a third party involved. This means the person does not know the client; the client is just a number. If clients could talk directly with these managers, many might not pass this checklist.