Uncommon Sense in Financial Planning

Today’s Prep:

When common sense isn’t followed, what does that look like? What common sense should we adhere to when it comes to financial planning?

Equipping Points:

Today we are going to look at several basic statements that you often hear in the financial world. But, more often, people tend to do the opposite of these common sense concepts. Are you making the right decisions when it comes to financial planning?

To be successful in the market, you want to buy low and sell high. Unfortunately, when the market shifts some of us start to panic. It’s important to have a holistic plan that assesses risk and helps you focus on your goals. The real value an advisor brings is behavior modification to help you focus on the plan and avoid selling in a panic.

When it comes to taxes, no one wants to pay more than you have to. It comes down to, are you doing tax preparation or tax planning? The difference in looking at the past vs. the future. What is causing taxes? Can you lower your tax rate legally?   

To save money, you have to keep costs low. Do you understand what you’re actually paying when it comes to mutual funds? The hidden costs can really add up. By reducing that expense, you’ll be able to keep more of your money and an advisor can often help you do that.

We all know to diversify. But instead of diversifying between dozens of different mutual funds, think about diversifying between risk and safety. Owning multiple mutual funds might mean owning the same funds ultimately, which is not real diversification. Are you diversifying effectively?

1:06 – Buy low, sell high. 

3:13 – Don’t pay more in taxes than you have to.

5:16 – Keep costs low.

7:33 – Diversify your assets.

Today’s Takeaway:

When you invest in the market, the key to success is to buy low and sell high.

-Eric Peterson

Related Resources:

Heard It Through The Grapevine?

Are You Flirting with Financial Disaster?

What Is Your Retirement Mindset?

More From Eric:

The host: Eric Peterson - Contact - Call: (515) 226-1500

Subscribe To The Podcast:

Apple Podcasts  -  Google Podcasts  -  Spotify  -  Stitcher  -  iHeartRadio  -  TuneIn

Check out some other recent episodes

Mailbag: Should I Fire My Broker?

April 18, 2024

Navigating life’s financial crossroads can be tricky, especially when it involves your financial future. In this episode of Retirement Ready, Eric addresses these complex issues head-on. How do you best evaluate your broker and your investment performance against the S&P 500? Eric says a lot of that comes down to setting expectations and understanding the risks. Then, Holly wants to know what to consider before making a midlife career change.

Read More

Putting It Off

April 11, 2024

We are all guilty of procrastinating from time to time. Financially speaking, though, this can get you into a lot of trouble. Let’s talk about the areas where it might feel better to kick the can down the road.

Read More

Common Scams to Avoid

April 4, 2024

Americans over 60 have lost more than $3.1 billion in various forms of fraud and scams in the last 12 months! Today we talk through some of the common scams people unfortunately fall for and how you can stay vigilant against it.

Read More

Financial Strategies: Agree or Disagree?

March 28, 2024

There are a number of financial ideas that people have differing opinions on. Eric shares today which of these he agrees with or disagrees and why.

Read More

Divorce Mistakes

March 21, 2024

Unfortunately, divorce happens. When it does, no one wants to make costly financial mistakes amidst an already stressful time. Today, we talk about the mistakes that can happen and how to avoid them when it comes to dividing up your assets with a spouse.

Read More

Villains of the Financial World

March 14, 2024

Just like some of these cinematic villains, some of these financial elements may have a bit of nuance and history that can make it hard to label them all good or all bad.

Read More

Uses for Life Insurance

March 7, 2024

When you’re younger, life insurance is often thought of as an income replacement as needed. But as you get older and into retirement, you might find other uses for life insurance. When thinking ahead for your estate and how it passes to beneficiaries, life insurance can prove to be a useful tool. Currently, the proceeds from life insurance are tax-free. How does that change how you include it in your financial plan? Eric outlines some of the options and benefits life insurance can provide.

Read More

Understanding Financial Risk

February 29, 2024

What kind of risks do you take in your financial life? As you get less comfortable with things like climbing up ladders and riding on skateboards, you might also become less financially risky. When you enter retirement, how you view your money in the market changes significantly from your working years. It’s important to look at your portfolio to ensure your investments match your risk tolerance.

Read More

Mailbag: What Financial Advice Should I Share with My Grandchild?

February 22, 2024

Why is retirement planning different than the “good old days” that our parents and grandparents experienced? Things like pensions, Social Security, and even RMD age have changed. Is your financial plan set up accordingly or is it in need of some changes to match?

Read More

The Good Old Days

February 15, 2024

Why is retirement planning different than the “good old days” that our parents and grandparents experienced? Things like pensions, Social Security, and even RMD age have changed. Is your financial plan set up accordingly or is it in need of some changes to match?

Read More

Leave a Comment