The study of behavioural finance reveals that investors form certain biases based on past experiences. These patterns of thought can lead to investment decisions that are driven by emotion rather than rationality. To overcome these biases we need to be aware of them and understand how they can work against us.  One way to overcome...Read More

As you may know, the composition of the S&P500 has changed dramatically over time. In fact, the top 10 stocks in the index are completely different today than they were only a few years ago!   Considering that many of the most successful companies were replaced in the index by competitors, we can be reasonably confident the leadership...Read More

As the S&P500 recovers from a recent correction we have an opportunity to review the risk vs return of stocks.  Last year, the S&P500 finished up 24.9% with a drawdown of 8.5% – That’s a swing of 33.4%! This year the index fell approximately 20% before rebounding, but of course, we don’t know how this...Read More

Investors sometimes ask, “Should we wait until stock markets have bottomed before we invest?”  We would like to share two reasons why our answer is “no.” Stock markets bottom well before economic downturns are at their worst.    Life is more important than worrying about negative headlines.    Stock markets look forward. Prices bottom long before corporate...Read More

“The real key to making money in stocks is to not get scared out of them.” ~ Peter Lynch, Fidelity The most successful investors often surprise us with advice that seems counterintuitive: Do not attempt to forecast financial markets. Maintain your investment discipline during periods of market turmoil.  The average investor may find it difficult to follow these...Read More

We would like to provide you with some relevant perspective on the current market volatility.  Corrections are a process and they are eventually met with an effective policy response. This encouraging chart shows how the S&P500 historically performed during the year following a sucessful resolution:   Source: Alpine Macro The point of maximum financial opportunity occurs during...Read More

Do you want to know how to build meaningful wealth during a lifetime? The most proven way is achieved through business ownership. By investing wisely in the shares of companies trading on public stock exchanges, we become owners of companies which allows us to “share” in their growing corporate profits.  Evidence for the ability of business...Read More

In the classic movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life” there is a very important conversation about money.  A despairing George Bailey, asks his guardian angel, Clarence, “You don’t happen to have $8,000 bucks on on you, do ya?” Clarence responds, “Oh no, we don’t use money in heaven.” George replies, “Comes in pretty handy down here, bub!” ...Read More

On March 11, the S&P500 traded approximately 10% down from its peak – the definition of a market correction –  which may lead investors to ask what they should do.  Here are three important services we provide:  We check up on your personal financial goals: We can consult with you and put your financial “big picture”...Read More

We routinely cover the following topics with clients because they can significantly affect their personal finances. This  framework can help prepare you for financial success. Let us know if you have any questions and we can set up a time to discuss your financial goals with you. 1. Budget and Balance Sheet Issues Taking periodic...Read More