Asset allocation
Setting and maintaining the right asset allocation is key to long term portfolio returns. We test the proposed asset allocation against the ability of the client to emotionally and financially survive the fluctuations in the market against the expected returns needed to achieve their goals.
Diversification
Financial markets are uncertain and investors must expect the unexpected. Concentrated investments add risk with no additional expected return. We design portfolios to provide significant diversity without significantly increasing costs.
Lower costs
Lower investment costs lead to higher rates of return. There is the seen cost of portfolio management, trading commissions and custody fees and the unseen costs of inappropriate investment advice and active manager underperformance. Asset class funds have significantly lower overall investment costs and the savings accrue directly to the investor’s returns bringing value to our clients.
Minimise taxation
Use tax allowances to improve investment returns. Not addressing the underlying tax situation could potentially increase the exposure to income tax, capital gains tax and inheritance tax. Wherever possible, tax liabilities need to be kept to a minimum.
Control emotions
Emotions can damage wealth more than risk and investing in markets. Emotions play a large part in the success or failure of investors to meet their goals and protect their wealth. We help our clients to maintain their investment plan and avoid costly ‘buy high sell low’ emotional decisions.
Plan for inflation
Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money. Even during periods of low inflation, the cumulative effect over the long term is significant. A good investor protects the purchasing power of money by investing in ways that provide a hedge against inflation.
Use history & research wisely
Trying to pick investment funds on the basis of historical performance is not a task worth pursuing. We accept that the futility of trying to find tomorrow's ‘winners’ from yesterday's past performance. Instead, we use empirical research of market returns as a guide to the returns that can be expected from a portfolio.
Review strategy and progress
Individual client portfolios are created with specific goals in mind. We meet regularly to review progress against those goals and put the portfolio performance in perspective. The strategy must remain relevant to your circumstances and highlight new areas for discussion to maximise your chances of achieving your goals.
Rebalancing the portfolio means that the investment discipline is maintained.