Play It Again, Steve – Timeless Financial Tips #5: Trust the Evidence

If I could, I would grant amazing investment returns to every investor across every market. Unfortunately, that’s just not how it works. In real life, we must aim toward our financial ideals, knowing we won’t hit the bullseye every time. That’s why I recommend evidence-based investing—or investing according to our best understanding of how markets have actually delivered available returns over time, versus how we wish they would. Our “best understanding” may still be imperfect, but it sure beats ignoring reality entirely. Let’s look at why evidence-based investing based luck-based investing…

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Investing During Wartime: How Does the Geopolitical Climate Impact Your Financial Planning?

Most of us are asking important questions about this geopolitical crisis. By no means do our financial concerns detract from the greater, human toll. That said, if I can help you remain resolute as the world justifiably severs Russia’s access to capital markets and the global economy, perhaps we can both do our part to restore justice in Ukraine. So, let’s talk about geopolitics and investing during wartime. Here are my key takeaways:

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Understanding Inflation, Interest Rates, and Market Reaction

Most investors understand or perhaps accept the fact that they are not able to time stock markets (sell out before they go down or buy in before they advance). The simple rationale is that stock markets are forward looking by anticipating or “pricing in” future expectations. While the screaming negative headlines may capture attention, stock markets are looking out to what may happen well into the future. It is easy to understand why we might be scared about the recent headline inflation numbers and concerned about rising interest. It is very important to keep this in context, which is what we will address today.

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Q&A: What should I do – or NOT do – during the next Bear Market? Maintain long-term investing mindset while waiting patiently for market recovery

As we are revisiting and updating this piece in early February 2022, we are starting to see some volatility in bond and stock markets. Not surprising given the strong equity returns over the past 18 months and the fact that most central banks have stated publicly that they will be raising interest rates to tackle inflation. Before we get into any specifics about what one should or shouldn’t’ do during a bear market, I think it is very important to define exactly what sort of investor you are. Remember, our investment advice is aimed at helping you successfully complete your long-term, multi-generational financial journey. So, if you are a long-term, patient, multi-generational investor then read on so you can get some tips on how you can weather any market storm while you persevere and wait for the inevitable recovery. If you are a short-term trader, then you probably won’t find these pointers helpful. So, let's look back at my thoughts from April 2018…

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