Last week we took the initial steps in developing an investment strategy. Did you write them down? Putting things in writing (goals, promises, commitments) adds a dimension, a connection to the universe that helps propel you forward.
As you build your strategy here are some steps to follow:
1. State your investment goals and objectives clearly.
(some goals might be retirement, new home, kids education, second home, world travel, build wealth.)
2. Determine your time horizon.
(next year, in five years, 10 years? Time helps gauge the amount of risk.)
For multiple goals you may have multiple time frames.
3. Describe your return expectations.
(low risk = low return, high risk brings higher potential for both gain/loss.)
4. Detail the level of risk you are willing to take.
(I call this the "sleep factor" - how much money must I keep absolutely safe in order to sleep at night. Set that money aside in safe investments: CD's, U.S. Treasuries, stable value funds, and invest the rest accordingly.)
5. Assess your liquidity needs.
(how much cash must you be able to get at any given time.)
This keeps you from selling investments at the wrong time.
6. Decide who will monitor your portfolio?
(you, a broker, a money manager?)
7. Include a schedule for rebalancing your asset allocation ( mixture of stocks, bonds, cash, alternatives) - quarterly, annually?
Each component will grow at a different rate; rebalancing brings them back to your original proportions.
Be $ Smart - follow the steps, write them down, create your strategy, build your wealth.
Next time we will view a sample investment strategy.
