Pediheart Podcast #279: Asset Allocation in Your Retirement Accounts
May 22, 2024
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Noted personal finance expert Paul Merriman discusses asset allocation in retirement accounts, emphasizing the importance of diversification and low-cost, efficient portfolios. He shares insights on '2 fund' and '4 fund' strategies for optimal long-term returns. Merriman also highlights the benefits of target date funds and offers a free PDF of his book for further financial education.
Target date funds simplify investment decisions for 99% of investors, offering a hands-off approach aligned with changing needs.
Incorporating small cap value stocks in portfolios can lead to increased returns over time, highlighting their historical performance.
Deep dives
The Importance of Target Date Funds
Target date funds are highlighted for their significance in simplifying investment decisions for individuals, with Paul Merriman emphasizing that about 99% of investors could benefit from using them. These funds manage the transition from equities to bonds over time, aligning with an individual's changing needs in a hands-off manner. By providing a structured approach to portfolio management, target date funds offer a balanced strategy for long-term financial growth.
The Value of Small Cap Value Asset Class
Paul Merriman advocates for incorporating small cap value stocks into investment portfolios, citing their historical performance. He contrasts small cap value's resilience with other asset classes, emphasizing the potential for significantly increased returns over time. Despite market fluctuations, focusing on small cap value within a diversified portfolio can lead to substantial long-term financial gains.
Considerations for DIY Investing vs. Financial Advisors
The discussion delves into the nuances of managing investments independently versus seeking financial advisors. Paul Merriman underscores the importance of aligning investment choices with individual risk tolerance and emotional responses to market volatility. While emphasizing the value of low-cost index funds, he also acknowledges the merits of seeking guidance from advisors, especially for managing emotions during market downturns.
Resources for Financial Education and Advisor Selection
Various resources are highlighted for individuals seeking financial education, including websites like the Garrett Planning Network and Advice Only Network. Paul Merriman suggests considering fee structures when choosing advisors, from percentage-based fees to hourly rates, to align with one's financial goals and preferences. The emphasis is placed on empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their investments while providing access to educational platforms for comprehensive financial planning.
Eleven months a year Dr. Robert Pass produces a podcast dedicated to a review of the latest literature and thought leaders in pediatric cardiovascular care. For the last 3 years Rob has finished his podcast series with a focus on personal finance.
It has been an honor to work with Rob on these special podcasts for the last 3 years. This is his podcast from December 2023.
To conclude 2023 we end with noted national authority on personal finance and investing, Mr. Paul Merriman.
Mr. Merriman reviews some basic ideas about asset allocation within a retirement plan such as a 403b, 401k or IRA with the goal of achieving the highest degree of return for level of risk.
He reviews the importance of diversification and also shares with us both a '2 fund' and '4 fund' approach to creating a low cost, efficient and diversified portfolio that has, historically, been associated with good long term returns. Mr. Merriman's work can be seen at: paulmerriman.com For those interested learn more about his '2 Fund' solution: https://www.paulmerriman.com/2-funds-for-life-update-2023 For those interested to learn more about his '4 Fund' solution: https://www.paulmerriman.com/4-fund-combo For those interested in target date funds: https://www.paulmerriman.com/target-date-funds Finally, for those who did not previously take advantage of Paul's free book, the following is a link to a free PDF of the book: https://irp.cdn-website.com/6b78c197/files/uploaded/Were-Talking-Millions.pdf Please note: This episode is not intended to provide specific personal finance advice and is for entertainment purposes only. Please consider speaking with a trusted advisor before making any significant changes to your retirement assets.
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