China’s stock market has fallen over 30% in the past few weeks and wiped out roughly $3.5 trillion in wealth – or about 33% of China’s GDP. Our direct equity exposure to China is roughly 1.5%, so we don’t see reason for panic at this time. In fact, any related volatility could be good for long-term Read more…
5 Things to Know About Greece's Financial Situation
Stock volatility has picked up this week in response to the breakdown in Greek debt negotiations over the weekend. Because the situation is fluid, any written commentary in this environment can become outdated as quickly as it is published. Read more…
The Impact of Rising Rates on Your Bond Portfolio
Rising interest rates have been a concern among bond investors for many years. The Federal Reserve is signaling that they remain on track to raise interest rates in 2015, which means that the wait may be finally over. While the Fed may raise short-term interest rates in 2015, longer-term rates are Read more…
Volatility Is Not the Enemy
A few months ago we discussed keeping return expectations in check as higher valuations increase the probability of lower returns. We have no idea what the future holds and whether lower stock returns will come to fruition, but we do expect stocks to provide you with the best chance of outpacing Read more…
Risk Tolerance
Today we continue a discussion that began with defining risk and then focused on measuring the risk/return tradeoff. To briefly summarize those articles, we learned: Read more…
Do It Yourself or Hire an Advisor?
A common dilemma that everyone faces at one time or another is the choice of whether to manage your own investment portfolio or hire the help of a financial professional. As an investment professional myself, I am biased towards seeking out help, but I’d like to share a story to help frame this Read more…
How to Analyze Risks and Returns in Investing with Plancorp
Smart investment decisions are necessary on the road to financial security, but it's important to understand how to analyze the risks and returns associated with investment decisions. Knowing how to analyze risk and return properly can help you build a successful portfolio. Read more…
Asset Location Strategies
Everyone is thrilled that tax season is behind us. Now it’s time to focus on future tax bills. Read more…
Defining Risk
We frequently say that risk and return are related, but many people don’t understand exactly what we mean by the word “risk.” Read more…
Evaluating Cash
“Today people who hold cash equivalents feel comfortable. They shouldn’t. They have opted for a terrible long-term asset, one that pays virtually nothing and is certain to depreciate in value.” Read more…
