Tag: investing

How To Diversify Your Portfolio

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 8 July 2024
No Comments on How To Diversify Your Portfolio

How To Diversify Your Portfolio

“As in most subjects relating to money management, there’s a wide diversity of opinion on portfolio concentration versus diversification” – Whitney Tilson

3 min read

How To Diversify Your Portfolio

“As in most subjects relating to money management, there’s a wide diversity of opinion on portfolio concentration versus diversification.” – Whitney Tilson

3 min read

You will often hear that diversifying your investments is a crucial strategy to mitigate risk(s).

What you will find less often is exactly how to do this.

Read on to find out how you can diversify your portfolio, considerations you need to make, and what to look for as you continue, or begin, your investment journey.

What is Diversification?

First of all, it is important to know just what diversification involves.

In brief, it involves spreading your investments across various asset classes, sectors, and geographies, with the goal being to reduce exposure to any single investment, thereby minimising the impact of poor performance in one area on your overall portfolio.

Using equities as an example, you would invest in more than just one single company.

Why Diversify?

The reason you may want to consider diversification is quite simple.

It aims to reduce risk, enhance returns, and achieve a good balance for stability in all market conditions.

Asset Classes

There are many asset classes, even beyond what you will see below.

However, the first step in diversification is understanding the main different asset classes.

These include:

Equities
Bonds
Cash
Real Estate
Commodities

Equities represent ownership in a company, and bonds are loans to governments or corporations.

Cash includes savings accounts and money market funds.

Real estate investments are in property, and commodities invest in other physical assets like gold or oil.

How Do You Diversify?

There are many methods of diversification, including between sectors, geographies and within asset classes themselves.

Sector Diversification

Investing in various sectors would mean spreading risk between sectors such as technology, healthcare, energy. and consumer goods.

Each sector offers different advantages (and disadvantages) such as high growth but volatile, steady but less growth, etc.

Geographical Diversification

Geographical diversification does what it says on the tin; spreads risk between different countries and regions.

This can help with risk associated with economic and political instability.

Domestic investments include those within your country of residence.

International investments include exposure to global markets.

Diversifying Within Asset Classes

Diversifying within asset classes helps you differentiate between large-cap stocks, small-cap stocks, growth stocks, or value stocks.

Large-cap are generally established companies, small-cap are, you guessed it, smaller companies (but with high growth potential and more risk), growth stocks are those that are expected to grow faster than the market, and value stocks are companies trading below their intrinsic value.

Investment Funds

Investment funds like mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are excellent tools for diversification.

They pool money from many investors to buy a broad range of assets, providing instant diversification often at a very low cost.

How Much Diversification Is Too Much?

This question is an entirely new article in itself!

There are many debates over how much is too much, but one thing is for certain: it depends on your personal circumstances.

If you want to know the answer that is best for you, make sure to get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Your successful financial future awaits!

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Please note that all content within this article has been prepared for information purposes only. This article does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Always ensure you speak to a regulated Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions.

Tags buildingwealth, diversification, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, portfolio

Investments

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 1 July 2024
No Comments on Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

“A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world” – Louis Pasteur

3 min read

Investing in Rare Wines: A Unique Blend of Passion and Profit?

“A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world” – Louis Pasteur

3 min read

For those with a refined palate and an eye for quality, the world of fine wines can be an enticing investment opportunity.

Today, we will look at how you can build wealth through rare wine investments, for whom such investments may be suitable and, importantly, for whom they may not be!

If you have considered investing in rare wines, it is not often as easy as you may think. Read below to find out why.

Understanding the Wine Market

The rare wine market operates differently from traditional investment markets. It requires a deep understanding of the product you are buying (wine!), including its provenance, vintage, and quality.

The value of rare wines can appreciate over time, driven by factors such as limited supply, increasing demand, and the wine’s ageing potential. These factors can make it a stable investment over the longer-term, though there are risks with this style of investing that are not present with traditional asset classes.

Key Factors Influencing Wine Value

Several factors influence the value of rare wines, with they key factors being:

Vintage Quality: Exceptional vintage years produce wines with superior taste and ageing potential, thereby increasing the value.
Provenance: The wine’s history and authenticity significantly impact its market value. Well-documented provenance ensures the wine’s legitimacy.
Storage Conditions: Proper storage is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining the wine’s quality. Wines stored in optimal conditions are more likely to appreciate in value. This means that wines stored in your cellar at home, where the long-term conditions are unverifiable, may not benefit from large value increases.

Benefits of Investing in Rare Wines

Investing in rare wines offers several advantages such as diversification, the tangibility of the asset, and a relatively stable market.

Diversification into wines can be beneficial as the asset is not correlated with the returns of traditional assets. This helps you spread (and hopefully reduce) risk.

Furthermore, unlike stocks or bonds, you would be investing in physical assets, which means you are able to enjoy them whilst they appreciate in value.

Finally, the rare wine market is relatively stable, which can be a motivator for some.

Risks and Challenges

However, investing in rare wines also comes with risks and challenges about which you need to be aware before considering this asset.

Selling rare wines can be time-consuming, and finding the right buyer may take longer than anticipated. This means that, as with Real Estate for example, you may not be able to access your funds when you need them.

In addition, knowledge is power. This means that successful wine investment requires extensive knowledge of the wine market, vintages, storage conditions, and much more. This can be a difficult barrier to entry for an individual investor as it requires a large time commitment.

As with any physical asset, you also have costs that are not present with more traditional assets. In particular, storage costs, which are necessary to preserve the wine’s quality and value.

Building Your Wine Collection

To build a valuable wine collection, the following steps are vital:

Research, research and… research!
- It is inadvisable to enter this market if you are not willing and able to gain the knowledge that is required. Conduct thorough research on wine regions, vintages, and market trends. You may want to consider talking to professionals within the sector, too.
Purchase from Reputable Sources
- Buy wines from reputable auction houses, wine merchants, or directly from wineries. It can be very easy to be mis-led in this area with complex jargon, so make sure you only deal with reputable vendors.
Proper Storage
- Invest in a professional wine storage facility to ensure optimal ageing conditions. As mentioned, your home cellar will not cut it!

Cheers To Your Investments

Investing in rare wines can be a rewarding venture, though there are many risks and complexities that make this asset more specialist and far less common than, for example, stocks and bonds.

However, when done correctly, it is possible to profit from what could be a unique pathway to wealth.

Before you go diving into the world of rare wines, make sure to get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Our team are waiting to help you decide whether rare wines is an area in which you should invest, or not.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags buildingwealth, commodities, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, rare, rarewine, wealth, wine

Financial Planning

How Does Risk Change With Age?

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 24 June 2024
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How Does Risk Change With Age?

“Risk is how much can you lose and what are the chances of losing it” – Seth Klarman

3 min read

How Does Risk Change With Age?

“Risk is how much can you lose and what are the chances of losing it” – Seth Klarman

3 min read

Investing is a crucial part of financial planning, but the you take approach can vary significantly based on age.

However, it is not as easy as saying that younger investors can take more risk and older investors can take less risk.

What is more prudent to consider is that younger and older investors have different risk tolerances and investment strategies due to their varying financial goals, time horizons, and life stages.

This could lead to older investors taking less risk than younger investors, but also younger investors taking less risk than older investors.

As with most things, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding the differences is key to crafting a suitable investment plan as, unfortunately, the answer to how much risk you should take is not quite so simple!

Risk Tolerance at a Younger Age

Younger investors, typically in their 20s and 30s, have a long investment horizon. This allows them to take on higher risks, as they have more time to recover from potential market downturns. The focus for younger investors is often on growth and accumulating wealth over the long term, though this is a generalisation and not true for everyone.

Due to an extended time horizon, younger investors can typically then afford to invest aggressively. They are more likely to allocate a larger portion of their portfolio to stocks, which, while volatile, offer higher potential returns.

This strategy aims to maximise growth during the early years of investing and can be seen as a comfortable way of investing when they have many years to recuperate any losses.

Risk Tolerance in Later in Life

Older investors, typically nearing or in retirement, naturally have a shorter time horizon. Their focus often shifts from accumulation to preservation of capital and generating income. This reduced time frame makes them less tolerant of high-risk investments, as they have less time to recover from potential losses.

However, this is again a generalisation and you could in fact have varying degrees of risk for different parts of your portfolio, subject to your needs.

To mitigate risk, older investors can adopt conservative investment strategies. This means that they allocate a larger portion of their portfolio to bonds, cash, and other fixed-income securities. These assets provide stability and predictable income, essential for funding retirement expenses. Please note, no investment is without risk and you could withdraw less than you invested.

Balancing Risk and Reward

Regardless of age, diversification remains a fundamental principle of investing. You can diversify to spread risk across various high-growth assets, or diversify to protect your portfolio from market volatility and preserve capital.

As investors age, it’s common to gradually shift their portfolio from aggressive to conservative. This strategy, known as “life-styling,” adjusts the asset allocation to reduce risk as the investor approaches retirement. This ensures that the portfolio is aligned with changing financial goals and risk tolerance.

The Importance of Personalised Financial Advice

It is easy to think “I am older now, I should reduce my risk tolerance” or “I am young and should take as much risk as I can.”

Well, individual circumstances differ and the above statements are not necessarily true.

Things such as financial goals, income needs, and personal risk tolerance should always guide investment decisions, no matter your age.

Whilst online resources can only take you so far, talking to a Patterson Mills Financial Planner can help you discover where on the risk scale you fit, regardless of age.

In fact, if you are young but plan to buy a house within 3- to 5-years, you may wish to consider a lower risk profile.

If you are older and envisage your portfolio lasting 20- to 30-years, you could consider a higher risk profile.

No matter your age, if you have financial goals you wish to meet sooner in life, and those you wish to meet later in life, you could take a proportion of your portfolio and invest in lower risk assets for those you wish to meet sooner, and could potentially afford to take higher risk for those you wish to meet later in life.

As you can see, one thing is clear; you need a tailored investment strategy that considers these unique factors, and Patterson Mills is here to give you just that.

The Best Way To Formulate Your Investment Strategy

In reality, you cannot paint any age group with the same brush.

If you are older, do not think you have to take less risk and, if you are younger, do not think you have to take high risk.

It all depends on your personal circumstances, risk tolerance, capacity for loss, financial goals, time horizon, and more!

So, look no further as your helping hand is just one e-mail or phone call away.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags age, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, risktolerance

Investments

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 17 June 2024
No Comments on Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

“The key to winning is poise under stress” – Paul Brown

3 min read

Managing Stress and Anxiety With Your Investments

“The key to winning is poise under stress” – Paul Brown

3 min read

Investing can be a rollercoaster which is frightening for many, and it is not uncommon for market fluctuations to cause stress and anxiety.

However, understanding the nature of investing can help manage these feelings to ensure your investments cause as little stress and anxiety as possible.

This article will give you the key things you need to know to maximise the enjoyment of your investing journey.

Why Can Investing Be Stressful?

Simply put, investing involves risk and uncertainty, which can be scary.

The fear of losing money can lead to stress and anxiety, and watching market volatility and constantly monitoring your portfolio can amplify these feelings.

The pressure to make the right investment decisions adds to the stress, as does the overwhelming amount of financial information available.

It is also possible to come across people claiming to have an ‘easy investing secret’ to make sure your money ‘only goes in one direction’ (up!) and remove the complexity issue, which can just add to the stress. Have these people really come across a secret that nobody else knows and can solve all your investing problems? The short answer is, no.

There are no secrets in the investing world (or at least, very few…) that could have significant impacts on your portfolio. This means that, were such easy tricks to exist, everyone would already be doing it!

The Cyclical Nature of Markets

Markets are inherently cyclical. They go through periods of growth (bull markets) and decline (bear markets).

If you wake up one day and see your portfolio has dropped by 1%, 3%, or 5%, but then increased by 1%, 3%, or 5% the next day (or higher / lower), do not worry. Behaviour such as this is normal.

Understanding that these cycles are normal and inevitable can help reduce stress.

Over Time Markets Have Gone Up

The good news is that, historically speaking, markets have trended upwards over the longer-term.

Naturally, past performance is not indicative of future returns, but it can be re-assuring for short-term anxiety and stress.

Remember, investing is a marathon, not a sprint.

Avoid Always Checking Your Portfolio

Constantly checking your investments can lead to unnecessary stress. Short-term market fluctuations can be misleading and may prompt impulsive decisions.

It is easy to become worried if your investments fall for one continuous week (or more), but if your time horizon is in another few years (which it hopefully is!), take time to breathe and relax.

Instead of constantly checking your investment value, set periodic reviews of your portfolio. This approach allows you to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed by daily market movements.

Accept That Your Investments Can Go Down

If you are involved in investing, you will hopefully have been told that your investments can go down.

Accepting that investments can lose value is critical. Markets will have ups and downs, and no investment is risk-free.

By understanding this, you can better prepare mentally for potential losses.

Up, Down, Left, Right, In What Direction Are Your Investments Going?

Investing can be stressful, but understanding market cycles and adopting a long-term perspective is key to managing stress and anxiety from your investments.

In addition, having a trusted Patterson Mills Financial Planner to help you navigate your investment journey can provide much needed peace of mind, especially in periods of low (or even negative) growth.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting. There has never been a better time to secure your financial future with Patterson Mills.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags anxiety, finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing, investmentmanagement, stress

Investments

How Does Monetary Policy Impact You?

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 10 June 2024
No Comments on How Does Monetary Policy Impact You?

How Does Monetary Policy Impact You?

“Fiscal policy, monetary policy, they need to work together to try and raise the level of growth” – Joe Hockey

3 min read

How Does Monetary Policy Impact You?

“Fiscal policy, monetary policy, they need to work together to try and raise the level of growth” – Joe Hockey

3 min read

Monetary policy refers to the actions undertaken by a country’s central bank to control the money supply, manage interest rates, and achieve macroeconomic goals such as controlling inflation, consumption, growth, and liquidity.

Central banks, such as the Swiss National Bank (SNB) or Bank of England (BoE), use tools like interest rate adjustments, open market operations, and reserve requirements to influence the economy.

However, once you’ve got through all of the theory, terminology and over-complexities, how does monetary policy really impact your day-to-day life? Read below to find out!

Monetary Policy Explained

In its simplest form, monetary policy is all about using various tools to stabilise prices, improve economic stability and promote sustainable growth.

The objectives of monetary policy are to control inflation, ensure stable economic growth, and maintain low unemployment.

Central banks use various tools, including interest rate adjustments, open market operations, and changes in reserve requirements, to influence the availability and cost of money in the economy.

By doing so, they aim to stabilise prices, create economic stability, and promote sustainable growth, which is exactly what monetary policy is all about!

Understanding monetary policy helps you, as an individual, and businesses anticipate changes in borrowing costs, savings returns, and overall economic conditions.

The Impact of Monetary Policy

Monetary policy has several impacts.

Lowering interest rates can stimulate economic growth by making borrowing cheaper, encouraging spending and investment.

Conversely, raising interest rates can ‘cool’ an ‘overheating’ economy and control inflation by making borrowing more expensive.

As well as the above, monetary policy can affect exchange rates; lower interest rates may weaken a currency, making exports cheaper and imports more expensive.

Monetary policy also influences employment levels. Expansionary policies can reduce unemployment by boosting economic activity, while contractionary policies may increase unemployment if they slow down the economy too much.

The central bank’s decisions can significantly shape overall economic confidence and financial market stability.

The Pros & Cons

Now onto the pros and cons, starting with the pros.

One major advantage of monetary policy is its ability to quickly influence the economy.

Central banks can swiftly implement changes to interest rates or engage in open market operations to address economic issues. This flexibility allows for timely responses to economic shocks or downturns.

Monetary policy can also be a powerful tool for controlling inflation. By adjusting interest rates, central banks can manage demand and keep inflation within target ranges.

Effective monetary policy can cause stable economic growth, contributing to long-term prosperity and financial stability.

However, despite its benefits, monetary policy has limitations.

It may not be effective in addressing supply-side economic issues, such as productivity constraints or structural unemployment.

Furthermore, in periods of very low interest rates, the central bank’s ability to stimulate the economy can be limited, a situation known as a liquidity trap.

Monetary policy can also lead to unintended consequences. For example, keeping interest rates too low for too long can create asset bubbles, which can burst and lead to economic instability.

Moreover, rapid changes in monetary policy can cause uncertainty and volatility in financial markets, potentially harming economic growth.

Difference Between Monetary Policy & Fiscal Policy

Fiscal and monetary policies are both tools used by governments and central banks to influence a country’s economy, but they operate in different ways and are managed by different entities.

You can view last week’s article on Fiscal Policy by clicking here.

However, the key differences are:

Control: Fiscal policy is under the control of the government, while monetary policy is managed by the central bank.
Methods: Fiscal policy uses taxation and spending, whereas monetary policy uses interest rates and money supply management.
Direct vs Indirect Impact: Fiscal policy can have a direct impact on public services and individual finances, while monetary policy typically works through the financial system to influence the economy indirectly.

How Does Monetary Policy Impact YOU

The key way monetary policy directly affects you is through changes in interest rates.

Lower interest rates mean cheaper loans and mortgages, which can boost spending and investment. However, they also result in lower returns on savings, which can impact retirees and savers. In addition, the opposite is true with higher interest rates!

Inflation control is another critical aspect. Effective monetary policy keeps inflation in check which preserves the purchasing power of your money. Conversely, poor monetary policy can lead to high inflation, eroding savings and increasing living costs.

Monetary policy can also influence job opportunities and wages. Expansionary policies can lead to more job creation and potentially higher wages, while contractionary policies might have the opposite effect, impacting overall economic wellbeing.

Managing Your Own Monetary Policy

Whilst you may be unable to influence central bank decisions, you can influence your own financial decisions.

Knowing where to start is key, and having a Patterson Mills Adviser provides you with this key to a brighter financial future.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing

Investments

How Does Fiscal Policy Impact You?

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 3 June 2024
No Comments on How Does Fiscal Policy Impact You?

How Does Fiscal Policy Impact You?

“Fiscal policy, monetary policy, they need to work together to try and raise the level of growth” – Joe Hockey

3 min read

How Does Fiscal Policy Impact You?

“Fiscal policy, monetary policy, they need to work together to try and raise the level of growth” – Joe Hockey

3 min read

Fiscal policy, a critical component of economic management, involves the government’s use of spending and taxation to influence economic conditions.

Whilst fiscal policy is a tool utilised by governments, it is important to understand what it is, the pros and cons, and, importantly, how it impacts you.

Those are exactly what you will find out below, so read on!

Fiscal Policy Explained

In its simplest form, fiscal policy refers to the use of government spending and taxation to influence a country’s economy.

It’s a key tool for managing economic performance, aiming to achieve sustainable growth, high employment, and stable prices.

The government adjusts its levels of expenditure and tax rates to monitor and influence a nation’s economy. This approach contrasts with monetary policy, which involves the central bank’s management of interest rates and money supply, and which will have its own article!

The Impact of Fiscal Policy

Fiscal policy’s influence extends beyond immediate economic metrics.

For instance, increased government spending on infrastructure projects not only boosts short-term employment but also enhances long-term productivity by improving transportation and communication networks. This can make a country more attractive to investors, creating sustainable economic growth.

Conversely, tax hikes can dampen consumer spending and business investment, potentially leading to a slowdown in economic activity and affecting the stock market.

Furthermore, fiscal policy decisions can have significant social impacts. Government spending on items such as healthcare, education, and social security can improve quality of life and reduce income inequality.

However, these benefits must be balanced against the risks of increasing public debt. High levels of debt can limit future fiscal flexibility and may lead to higher taxes or reduced spending on essential services, impacting economic stability and growth prospects.

The interplay between fiscal policy and social outcomes underscores the complexity of crafting policies that balance short-term economic needs with long-term sustainability.

It can certainly be a complex area through which to navigate, and if you are interested in learning more we encourage you to get in touch with Patterson Mills.

The Pros & Cons

One significant advantage of fiscal policy is its ability to target specific sectors or groups within the economy. For example, during a recession, the government can increase spending on infrastructure projects, directly creating jobs and stimulating demand.

Fiscal policy can also provide immediate relief to the economy through tax cuts or increased public spending and the government to address income inequality by adjusting tax rates and providing social benefits.

Despite its benefits, fiscal policy has several drawbacks. One major issue is the time lag between the implementation of policy changes and their effects on the economy. This delay can make it challenging to time interventions effectively. Additionally, excessive government spending can lead to large budget deficits and increased national debt, which may have long-term negative effects on the economy. Political considerations can also influence fiscal policy, sometimes leading to suboptimal economic decisions driven by electoral cycles rather than economic needs.

How Does Fiscal Policy Impact YOU

Essentially, fiscal policy directly affects you through any changes in taxation and government spending.

Tax cuts increase your disposable income whilst tax increases decrease your disposable income.

Government spending on public services, infrastructure and social programs can improve your quality of life and economic opportunities.

It also extends to your employment prospects and wage growth. When the government implements expansionary fiscal policy (increasing spending or cutting taxes), businesses often experience higher demand for their products or services which can lead to job creation and potentially higher wages.

On the other hand, contractionary fiscal policy can result in the opposite.

Finally, fiscal policy influences the broader economic environment in which you make financial decisions. For example, government investments in education and training programs can enhance your skills and employability, opening up new career opportunities and potentially higher earnings. Infrastructure projects funded by government spending can reduce commuting times and improve access to markets and services, indirectly benefiting your personal and professional life.

However, fiscal mismanagement, leading to high inflation or debt crises, can erode your savings and reduce the purchasing power of your income, highlighting how important fiscal policy is for you and other individuals.

Managing Your Own Fiscal Policy

Whilst you may be unable to influence government decisions outside of the voting booth, you can influence your own spending and, importantly, how you build wealth.

Investing is a great way to start, and for the best possible chance of success, having a Patterson Mills Adviser is paramount.

Get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialadvisor, financialeducation, financialknowledge, financialliteracy, financialplanning, independentfinancialadvice, investing

Financial Planning

The Impact of Global Events on Financial Markets

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 12 February 2024
No Comments on The Impact of Global Events on Financial Markets

Man holding virtual Global Internet connection metaverse. Business global internet connection application technology and digital marketing, Financial and banking, Digital link tech, big data.

The Impact of Global Events on Financial Markets

“The markets are like a weather; you may not like it but you have to bear it” ― Rakesh Jhunjhunwala

5 min read

The Impact of Global Events on Financial Markets

“The markets are like a weather; you may not like it but you have to bear it” ― Rakesh Jhunjhunwala

5 min read

Global events, ranging from political upheavals and geopolitical tensions to natural disasters and beyond, have an undeniable impact on financial markets worldwide. Such events can trigger significant volatility in financial markets and your investments, causing fluctuations in stock prices, currency exchange rates, and commodity markets.

The interconnectedness of global economies means that disruptions in one area can quickly ripple across borders, affecting investors and businesses worldwide. Hence, it is important that you are aware of how global events influence market dynamics to be able to navigate uncertainty with confidence and continue making informed decisions.

Luckily, that is what our article is all about! Make sure you read to the end to gain a complete understanding of the what, the how and the why about the impact of global events on financial markets, and how you can optimise your investments effectively.

Heightened Market Volatility

Global events often trigger heightened market volatility as investors around the world react to uncertainty and risk. Sharp fluctuations in stock prices, currency exchange rates, and commodity markets are common during such periods.

However, it’s crucial to differentiate between short-term market reactions and long-term investment fundamentals.

Avoid making impulsive decisions based solely on market volatility or news headlines and stay focused on your long-term financial plan and investment goals whilst maintaining your diversified portfolio. In this way, you can weather the storm (short-term fluctuations) and position yourself for long-term financial success.

In fact, you may find opportunities to acquire some assets at discounted prices, thereby capitalising on market volatility to enhance long-term returns. However, such action should only be taken in discussion with your Patterson Mills Adviser.

Ultimately, by understanding the impact of global events on market volatility and maintaining a disciplined investment approach, the aim is then that you are able to navigate uncertain times with confidence and resilience.

Examining Historical Events

We can learn much from looking at historical events. There are important lessons about market behaviour and the effectiveness of various investment strategies during times of crisis. For instance, the 2008 financial crisis highlighted the importance of risk management and the potential pitfalls of excessive leverage in financial markets. Similarly, the recent pandemic underscored the significance of diversification and the resilience of certain sectors, such as technology.

Geopolitical tensions, such as trade disputes or military conflicts, have also shown how market sentiment can shift rapidly in response to geopolitical developments, emphasising the need for vigilance and adaptability in investment decision-making.

Overall, drawing such insights from historical events will enable you to perhaps better anticipate market reactions, mitigate risks, and capitalise on opportunities in what has proven to be an ever-changing global landscape.

Strategies You Can Use To Navigate Uncertainty

As usual, we aren’t just going to tell you what happens without providing any strategies to mitigate the negative impact on your investments!

In short, diversification, asset allocation, and risk management play crucial roles in mitigating downside risks and capturing potential upside opportunities. Additionally, staying informed, maintaining a long-term perspective, and avoiding impulsive reactions are essential principles for successful investing.

For some more detail, maintaining a diversified investment portfolio across different asset classes can help spread risk and reduce the impact of market volatility on overall returns. If one asset you hold goes down, the objective is that other assets you hold will have gone up! What’s more, asset allocation strategies that are tailored to your risk tolerance and investment objectives provide a framework for balancing risk and reward effectively.

You can also take more proactive risk management measures, such as setting stop-loss orders or regularly monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio.

There are many more strategies you could use, though this article would become substantially longer, so contact Patterson Mills to find out more!

Looking Ahead

As global events continue to shape financial markets, you should consider focusing on building a resilient portfolio with your Patterson Mills Adviser.

Whilst the strategies and information presented in this article can be a useful guide in helping you build such a portfolio, nothing is guaranteed. However, for the best possible chance of success, get in touch with Patterson Mills and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting. You will be pleased that you did!

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialmarkets, financialplanning, globalevents, impact, independentfinancialadvice, investing

Investments

Keeping More Money in Your Pocket: Tax-Loss Harvesting

Post author By Edward Mills
Post date 15 January 2024
No Comments on Keeping More Money in Your Pocket: Tax-Loss Harvesting

Keeping More Money in Your Pocket: Tax-Loss Harvesting

“Whatever you tax, you get less of” ― Alan Greenspan

4 min read

Keeping More Money in Your Pocket: Tax-Loss Harvesting

“Whatever you tax, you get less of” ― Alan Greenspan

4 min read

Tax-loss harvesting is a sophisticated strategy that you can use to optimise your investment portfolio(s) and reduce your tax liabilities. Today, we are looking into the intricacies of this strategy that you may not have heard before!

Read on to discover the upsides, downsides and how you can implement this technique to enhance your overall financial wellbeing.

Tax-Loss Harvesting: The Basics

Tax-loss harvesting is a proactive investment strategy designed to mitigate tax liabilities and enhance overall portfolio performance. The process hinges on the strategic selling of investments that have incurred losses, creating an opportunity to offset capital gains and, consequently, lower your taxable income. Seems simple enough, right?

To execute tax-loss harvesting effectively, it is important to closely examine your investment portfolio. This involves identifying specific assets that have experienced a decline in value. These underperforming investments become valuable tools in the tax-loss harvesting toolkit, as their losses can be strategically realised to counterbalance any capital gains within the same tax year.

The key principle is to turn temporary setbacks into long-term advantages. By intentionally selling assets that are currently at a loss, you create a deliberate taxable event. This loss can then be used to offset capital gains, either reducing or entirely eliminating the associated tax obligation. This approach not only minimises the immediate tax impact but can also allow for for improved tax efficiency and potential long-term capital growth.

With regards to which assets to sell, it’s surely just any that have made a loss? Well, whilst that could be the case, it’s actually prudent to identify assets with unrealised losses that align with the your overall financial goals and risk tolerance. Selecting the investments to sell that ensures your investment strategy can remain on track, or making adjustments as required.

Additionally, the process must adhere to any regulatory guidelines where you are based. Some jurisdictions have laws in place to prevent manipulation of tax benefits such as selling an asset at a loss and buying it back immediately or shortly afterwards.

What is Good About it?

The benefits of tax-loss harvesting extend beyond just a reduction in taxable income; it is a strategic financial tool with many advantages that can significantly impact your overall wealth management plan(s).

Minimising Taxes: Naturally, an immediate reduction in your taxable income is one of the main benefits to tax-loss harvesting. Minimising taxes through this strategy translates to more disposable income that can be redirected towards further investments, other financial goals or a nice holiday.
Balancing Portfolios: An often overlooked benefit of tax-loss harvesting is its role in portfolio rebalancing. In your usual portfolio, you should aim to maintain a specific asset allocation aligned with your financial objectives and risk tolerance. However, market fluctuations can skew this balance. Therefore, tax-loss harvesting allows for strategic selling of underperforming assets without incurring substantial tax consequences. If done correctly, you are able to keep your portfolio in line with your risk tolerance and goals whilst reducing your tax liability!
Creating Tax Efficiency: The cumulative effect of consistent tax-loss harvesting is increased tax efficiency over the long term. As losses are strategically realised, they can be used to offset future capital gains, providing a shield against unnecessary tax liabilities. This enhanced tax efficiency ensures that a larger portion of your returns contributes to growth or income rather than being diverted towards taxes. Over time, this can result in a more streamlined and effective approach to wealth accumulation.

Are There Any Downsides?

Of course, nothing is without it’s disadvantages! Here are some of the key ones that apply to tax-loss harvesting:

Complexity and Monitoring Requirements

Tax-loss harvesting involves a thorough analysis of an investment portfolio to identify opportunities for realising losses. This process can be complex, requiring continuous monitoring of market conditions and individual securities. You need to stay informed about changes in the value of your holdings and make strategic decisions to optimise tax outcomes. The complexity of tracking and managing multiple investments can be overwhelming for some!

Transaction Costs and Fees

Engaging in tax-loss harvesting often involves selling and buying securities, which can trigger transaction costs and fees. These expenses have the potential to erode the tax benefits gained from harvesting losses. Additionally, if you’re not careful, frequent trading may lead to increased transaction fees, impacting the overall returns of the portfolio. It’s crucial to weigh the potential tax advantages against the costs associated with executing the necessary trades. Ensure you speak with your Patterson Mills Financial Adviser before making any decisions.

Potential Market Timing Risks

Tax-loss harvesting requires selling investments at a loss, and the decision of when to execute these sales introduces potential market timing risks. If you sell during a market downturn to realise losses, they risk missing out on a subsequent market upturn. The challenge is to balance the tax benefits of harvesting losses with the uncertainty of market movements. Attempting to time the market can be unpredictable, and decisions made solely for tax purposes may not align with your broader investment strategy.

Can You Benefit?

If you are able to identify losses to offset your gains whilst adhering to applicable regulations and ensuring your investment strategy remains on plan, you can!

If it sounds like the monitoring required, careful selection of which assets to sell and adherance to applicable regulations could be too time consuming for you, it is time to get in touch with Patterson Mills and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting. Your investments will thank you and you too will be pleased that you have the peace of mind you deserve.

Send us an e-mail to contactus@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

Please note that all information within this article has been prepared for informational purposes only. This article does not constitute financial, legal or tax advice. Always ensure you speak to a regulated Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions.

Tags finance, finances, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, financialstrategy, investing, Investments, investmentstrategy, tax

Investments

Holding Cash is Not Investing… Or is it?

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 7 December 2023
No Comments on Holding Cash is Not Investing… Or is it?

Stock Market Investments Funds and Digital Assets. Women analyzing forex trading graph financial data. Business finance background. business finance technology and investment concept.

Holding Cash is Not Investing… Or is it?

“Either you sit on the pile of cash, or you continue to grow” ― Gautam Adani

5 min read

Holding Cash is Not Investing… Or is it?

“Either you sit on the pile of cash, or you continue to grow” ― Gautam Adani

5 min read

For many, the notion of investing evokes images of stocks, bonds, or real estate. However, does this mean if you have 500’000 cash sat in your bank account you are not investing and therefore immune to the volatility of the stock market?

The dictionary definition of “investing” (n.) is: “The use of money or capital to purchase an asset or assets (such as property, stocks, bonds, etc.) in the expectation of earning income or profit^1″

Well, whilst you do not generally use money to purchase money, cash is an asset and by holding substantial amounts you are making a conscious investment decision that can have both positive and negative impacts to your overall financial wellbeing.

So, it may not perfectly fit the dictionary definition, holding cash is, in fact, a form of investment, albeit one with its own set of dynamics. Read on to find out more about whether you should be holding substantial amounts of cash.

The Real Cost of Cash

Cash serves as a store of value, but its value is not immune to erosion over time, though this is a common misconception about cash: that its value remains static.

When you login to your online banking on a Monday morning you might see 500’000 on your screen. Provided you don’t spend anything that week, you can check your phone on the following Friday morning and still see 500’000 on your screen. However, does this mean you still have 500’000 in your bank account? Well, factually, yes.

However, the truth lies beyond the surface. In the backdrop of inflation, that 500,000, though numerically the same, is likely to have reduced purchasing power tomorrow. So maybe you can buy 2 Porsche 911 GT3 RS model cars today, but next week, month or year, this may reduce to only 1!

This erosion in the number of sports cars you can buy is the silent but persistent effect of inflation on idle cash. It underscores the hidden cost of keeping money in your bank account and highlights the importance of seeking investments that can potentially outpace inflation to preserve and grow wealth over time. For more information about the impact of inflation, view our article here.

Returns on Cash

Earning from cash holdings typically involves interest income offered from various financial instruments like savings accounts, certificates of deposit, or money market accounts. When you park your money in a bank account or one of the above, financial institutions (typically a bank) compensates you with interest payments for allowing the institution to use your funds.

Savings accounts offer relatively low but steady interest rates, providing account holders with a modest return on their deposits. Money market accounts, akin to savings accounts but often offering higher interest rates, invest in short-term, liquid, and low-risk securities like government bonds or commercial paper. These accounts provide competitive interest rates whilst preserving liquidity, making them attractive options for those seeking relatively higher returns than traditional savings accounts.

Nevertheless, the returns generated from cash holdings are often conservative, and whilst they can provide stability and security, they might not suffice to counter the effects of inflation, which as mentioned can erode the purchasing power of your earned interest over time. In fact, in times of low-interest rates or when the inflation rate exceeds the interest earned, the real return on cash becomes negative and so you are guaranteeing a loss each year.

It is definitely vital to keep some of your funds in cash for accessibility when you need it, though typically enough to cover 6-months of your expenditure is likely to be sufficient.

Cash in Your Investment Portfolio

When creating an investment portfolio, cash actually plays a pivotal role. It acts as a buffer, a tactical tool, and a source of opportunity. A strategic allocation to cash within a portfolio provides liquidity, ensuring readily available funds for immediate needs, such as covering expenses or seizing investment opportunities arising during market downturns. This liquidity allows investors to maintain financial flexibility, capitalising on moments of market volatility or taking advantage of undervalued assets without the need for selling other holdings at disadvantageous times.

However, whilst cash can allow for stability and accessibility, it comes with a trade-off in terms of potential returns. As mentioned above, cash returns primarily stem from prevailing interest rates, which often lag behind the pace of inflation, resulting in a loss of purchasing power over time. Despite its importance as a tactical and liquidity tool, holding excessive cash for prolonged periods could impede the portfolio’s overall potential for growth and limit the ability to counter the eroding effects of inflation. Balancing the advantages of liquidity and stability against the necessity for potential returns becomes imperative in constructing a well-diversified and resilient investment portfolio.

Cash vs Equities

Cash and equities represent contrasting facets of investment, each with its own merits and drawbacks. Holding cash serves as a protective measure during market volatility, providing a cushion against downturns and allowing investors to swiftly navigate unexpected financial needs. However, while cash ensures safety, its returns are typically modest and might not sufficiently outpace inflation, leading to a decline in real purchasing power over time.

Equities, on the other hand, embody ownership in companies and the potential for significant capital appreciation. Investing in stocks grants shareholders a stake in a company’s profits and growth potential. Equities historically outperform cash over extended periods, offering the possibility of higher returns. Yet, stocks carry higher risk due to market fluctuations and economic uncertainties. They can be volatile and subject to market sentiment, making them prone to short-term fluctuations and potential losses. Despite this, the potential for long-term wealth accumulation often draws investors towards equities as, historically, cash has been greatly outperformed by equities (and other asset classes, too).

When considering cash versus equities, weigh your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and financial goals. Whilst cash allows for stability and immediate access to funds, equities offer growth potential but come with higher risk. Holding cash may often lose to inflation, but it is possible that in a bad period your other investments may decline in value even further. Finding the right balance of cash and equities (or bonds, real estate etc.) is crucial in constructing a diversified portfolio that aligns with your risk profile and long-term investment objectives.

Cash is Investing

In reality, holding substantial cash is often a deliberate decision (or perhaps you haven’t got around to investing yet?) and is an investment in cash rather than a diversified portfolio of equities, bonds, commodities, real estate and, yes, cash etc.

It is up to you to decide what style of returns you wish to achieve, and whether they can be achieved by holding cash or may require a well-structured investment strategy for your portfolio.

Patterson Mills are here to help you make that decision and ensure your portfolio is putting you on the right path to future financial success. So, get in touch with us today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting, you will be pleased that you did. Send us an e-mail to info@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

¹Oxford English Dictionary, 2023

Tags cash, cashisking, financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, investing

Investments

Investment Myths Debunked

Post author By Charles Mills
Post date 5 December 2023
No Comments on Investment Myths Debunked

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Investment Myths Debunked

“Words are very important, and I’m really into destroying myths” ― Yoko Ono

2 min read

Investment Myths Debunked

“Words are very important, and I’m really into destroying myths” ― Yoko Ono

2 min read

To many, the world of investing is shrouded in mystery; the realm of financial whizz-kids and the super-rich. In reality, however, this is not the case and, once myth is separated from reality, it should be clear that investing is actually accessible to all.

Can’t invest, won’t invest!

Research¹ has highlighted several reasons why people are sometimes reluctant to invest. The main one, cited by 45% of respondents, is because they don’t have sufficient money, while 23% feel they are not knowledgeable enough about investing and 21% are worried about losing money.

Only for the rich?

These findings mirror a number of common misconceptions surrounding investing, one of which is that only wealthy people invest. However, whilst this may have been the case in the past, it is certainly not true nowadays, with investment options available for people with relatively small sums to invest.

Personal expertise and devotion required?

Other common investment myths include the idea that you have to be a stock market genius and monitor your investments on a daily basis. Both of these are untrue: advice is readily available to guide novice investors throughout their investment journey, while taking a long-term approach is always advisable.

Too risky by far?

Whilst it is true that all investing involves risk, not all investments are similarly risky. So, anyone who is worried about losing money can take a more cautious approach by holding a greater proportion of less-risky assets in their portfolio.

Real Estate is Always a Safe Investment!

Real estate can be lucrative, but it’s not devoid of risks. It requires research, maintenance, and might often lack liquidity compared to other investments.

Gold is the Ultimate Safe Haven?

Whilst gold is often considered a safe haven, its value fluctuates and doesn’t always offer the returns or stability expected during economic turmoil.

You Can't Recover from Investment Losses

Losses are part of investing, but smart strategies, patience, and learning from mistakes can help recover and grow wealth over time.

Timing the Market Guarantees Success

Timing the market consistently is incredibly challenging. It’s time IN the market, not timing the market, that matters. Consistency and long-term strategies tend to yield better results.

Help at hand

If you’re new to investing then get in touch and Patterson Mills can help get you started. We’ll show you that investing is not just for the ultra wealthy but in fact everyone has a chance to potentially secure a higher return on their hard-earned cash.

Patterson Mills understand that navigating the investment landscape can feel daunting amidst these myths and others. But here’s the truth—we’re here to support you every step of the way. We won’t throw you into the deep end; instead, we provide a steady hand to guide you through the complexities, offering tools, resources, and expert advice.

Whether you’re a novice investor or seeking to refine your strategies, our commitment remains steadfast — together, we’ll navigate the investment world and build a secure financial future. Get in touch today and book your initial, no-cost and no-obligation meeting, you will be pleased that you did. Send us an e-mail to info@pattersonmills.ch or call us direct at +41 21 801 36 84 and we shall be pleased to assist you.

¹HSBC, 2022

Tags financetips, financialadvice, financialadviser, financialplanning, investing, investment, investmentmyths