Balanced Portfolios Are Sub-Optimal - Stop Focusing On Volatility!

Nov 14, 2023

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Controversial opinion alert!

Balanced portfolios are sub-optimal.

Well, it may be controversial for some, but in this episode, Dennis explains how cashflow planning and evidenced-based investing shine a light on the shortfalls of a balanced approach.

Risk profile questionnaires have been widely used since the late 90s, as a tool to establish our attitude to risk. But they're not a regulatory requirement. And they tend to focus on our reaction to volatility which, in turn, drives us towards the "safer" option.

But why are they sub-optimal? Why should we be questioning their validity? And what should we be discussing with our financial planner for a more rounded approach?

Useful information

Host: Dennis Hall

Dennis is a Chartered Financial Planner whose career spans 35 years, mostly in central London. After working for larger organisations (including a spell in Moscow) he founded Yellowtail in 2006 and later relocated the office to Exeter. Dennis's particular expertise lies in Lifestyle Financial Planning, helping busy successful people transitioning from working for a living to financial independence, allowing them to choose whether they work, retire, or something in-between. Dennis regularly writes for the trade press and the finance sectors of national newspapers and also has written a book on getting your financial affairs in order called "Who Will it Hurt When I Die"

Host: Sarah Steele

Sarah joined Yellowtail in 2017 having worked previously at Coutts Bank in Central London. Her role focused on clients in the sports and entertainment industry and, more recently, in private healthcare. In 2022, Sarah became Yellowtail's second Director and now looks after all the non-regulated aspects of the business. Sarah is particularly interested in the psychology of money and the interactions clients have with their financial planner. These interactions form the basis of many of the questions Sarah puts to Dennis on The Century Plan.