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The volatility and uncertainty associated with COVID times tends to accentuate any pre-existing cognitive biases we might have, making us even more susceptible to emotional decision making. Now more than ever is the time for investors to hand the reigns over to a fiduciary advisor.
Over four-fifths of US adults will receive a stimulus check by the time they have all been sent or direct deposited. Here are five ideas for five different situations for those who are not relying on using the stimulus check for immediate financial relief.
First off, I feel very fortunate that thus far I am still a few degrees of separation away from people who have come down with COVID. The health crisis is an ongoing tragedy unfolding and I continue to hope that we can collectively do what it takes to makes sure the fewest number of people are physically affected as possible. One very stressful realization early in the outbreak was to think about who would care for my three young children in the event both my spouse and I contracted the virus. This is just one of many concerns that can be addressed with comprehensive financial planning.
Most workers have a significant portion of their assets in their employers’ retirement plans. It is great to see so many people saving from every paycheck for their future, but there could be some costly mistakes that could derail your worry-free retirement. Here’s what to watch out for.
My wife and I bought our first home at the beginning of last year and for the first time in our lives, we itemized on our 2017 return. With the standard deduction doubling in 2018, we quickly found ourselves in the position where we would not be able to itemize, just like so many other taxpayers. Heeding the advice of my tax-knowledgeable coworkers, we prepaid everything we could before the end of 2017 and now find ourselves better situated to itemize every other year.
An asset allocation is designed to produce long term results, within an acceptable level of risk. Such strategy should remain consistent whether the market is relatively stable, volatile, increasing or decreasing. Asset allocation strategy should not be changed due to market circumstances, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t times when it is both appropriate and advisable to update your strategy. A change to your risk tolerance or return needs would indicate that it is worth revisiting whether an update to the asset allocation of your portfolio is needed.
