Tag: investments
-
Fiduciary Papers #16: The Annuitization Decision and the Need for Conflict-Free Advice
In recent years a major development has occurred with respect to annuities … more and more insurance companies are offering annuity products with no commissions. These products can deliver more of the returns of the capital markets to the consumer. If offered to plan participants, such products could greatly enhance a retiree’s financial security and…
-
Fiduciary Papers #15: The Prudent Investor Rule, 401k Accounts, and Tax-Efficient Investing
In the 401(k) world there has for many years been the option for plan participants to contribute to Roth 401(k) accounts, rather than traditional 401(k) account. For contributions to Roth accounts, no income tax deduction is provided, but (subject to certain requirements) the Roth account permits income-tax-free distributions after age 59-1/2 years. 401(k) accounts, and…
-
Fiduciary Papers #14: It’s Time to End Commissions and Revenue Sharing
It is possible that all commission-based compensation involving the sale of investment products, life insurance products, and annuities could be eliminated. And it would be right and just to do so. Every commission can be transformed into a clearly understandable fixed fee that would be paid directly by the consumer. There is no need today…
-
A Rough Quarter-to-Date for Equities Brings Forth Higher Expected Returns
(As of Nov. 6, 2023) October 2023 was a rough month for investment returns, with asset class returns in these ranges (as implemented via Dimensional Funds Advisors’ mutual funds and ETFs): U.S. Large Company stocks: – 1.6% to -4.2%, approximately U.S. Small Company stocks: – 4.8% to -6.5%, approximately Foreign Developed Markets Small…
-
A One-Page Financial Plan for a New College Graduate
I took a stab at putting together a one-page financial plan for a typical college graduate. The second page is to encourage further self-development, via readings, videos to watch, and concepts to master. Any suggestions, recommendations, comments are welcome! Thank you.
-
Should You Invest in the United States or Foreign Equity Markets?
The Spirit of Entrepreneurship I’m a big fan of the United States, the future of its economy, and, as a result, to possessing a home bias with respect to U.S. stocks (versus foreign stocks). Why? Because in the U.S. we have an attitude that makes things happen. In other words, we are a country of…