FORM CRS & ADV 2A
MEET WITH AN ADVISOR
Investment Insights

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Choosing a Financial Planner

By Trilogy Financial
February 20, 2024
Share on:

Introduction:

 

Selecting a qualified financial planner is crucial for securing a robust financial future. A proficient planner, like those at Trilogy Financial, can create a financial plan tailored to your unique needs to help you reach your goals.  Yet, a staggering 74% of Americans engage in financial planning without professional guidance, revealing a potential gap in making informed choices​2​.

 

Advisor meeting clients.

 

Mistake 1: Overlooking Qualifications

 

 

Chart quantifying the benefit of a financial planner.

 

  • Stat: Smart financial planning can yield 1.5% more in annual average returns, underlining the importance of qualified guidance​3​.
  • Tip: When choosing an advisor ensure  your planner holds pertinent certifications and showcases a robust track record of expertise.
  1. What are pertinent certifications for a financial planner?Pertinent certifications include the Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designations. These certifications indicate a high level of expertise and adherence to industry standards.
  2. How can I verify a financial planner's certifications?You can verify a planner's certifications by checking the databases of certifying bodies like the CFP Board or the CFA Institute. Additionally, you can ask the planner for proof of certification.
  3. What constitutes a robust track record of expertise?A strong track record includes many years of experience, successful financial planning, happy clients, and industry recognition or awards.
  4. How can I assess a financial planner’s track record?You can assess a planner’s track record by reviewing client testimonials, checking for any industry awards or recognitions, and asking for references. Additionally, verifying their work history and experience in the field can provide insights into their expertise.

 

 

 

Mistake 2: Neglecting Fee Structures

 

  • Stat: According to a 2019 Financial Trust Survey, “Nearly half of Americans (48%) incorrectly believe all financial advisers have a legal obligation to act in clients’ best interests.”4.
  • Tip: Understand the fee structures and ensure transparency in your financial engagements if you chose to work with a financial advisor.
  1. What are common fee structures in financial planning?Common fee structures include fee-only (fixed, hourly, or percentage of assets managed), commission-based, and fee-based (a combination of fees and commissions).
  2. How can I ensure transparency in fee structures?Ask your financial planner for a clear, written explanation of all fees and charges, including any potential third-party fees, before engaging their services.
  3. What is the difference between fee-only and fee-based financial planners?Fee-only planners charge a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage of assets managed, and do not receive commissions from selling financial products. Fee-based planners, on the other hand, may charge fees and also receive commissions, which could potentially lead to conflicts of interest.
  4. How do commissions affect the advice I receive?Commissions could potentially create a conflict of interest if a financial planner is incentivized to recommend certain products that earn them commissions, rather than what's in your best interest.

 

 

 

Mistake 3: Disregarding a Personalized Approach

 

 

Advisor providing a personalized approach to financial planning

 

  • Stat:  A Bankrate 2019 survey shows that 44% of individuals with a personal finance plan save more for retirement and 43% save 50% more per month.​5​
  • Tip: When hiring a financial advisor opt for financial planners like those at Trilogy Financial, who prioritize a personalized approach to meet your unique financial objectives​​.
  1. What does a personalized approach in financial planning entail?A personalized approach means that the financial planner takes the time to understand your individual financial circumstances, goals, risk tolerance, and future aspirations to craft a strategy tailored to meet your unique needs.
  2. Why is a personalized approach important in financial planning?A personalized approach ensures that your financial plan is aligned with your goals and circumstances, which can lead to better financial outcomes and satisfaction over time.
  3. What are some examples of unique financial objectives that would benefit from a personalized approach?Unique financial objectives could include planning for early retirement, saving for a child's education, managing a large inheritance, or preparing for a significant life change like marriage or starting a business.
  4. How does a personalized approach compare to a one-size-fits-all approach in financial planning?A personalized approach provides tailored advice and strategies based on your individual circumstances, which can lead to more effective financial planning and better outcomes compared to a one-size-fits-all approach that may not align with your personal goals and risk tolerance.

 

 

Mistake 4: Ignoring a Comprehensive Service Offering

 

 

Chart showing 90% of people say financial planning helped them achieve their saving goals.

 

 

  • Stat: A whopping 90% of individuals achieved their savings goals owing to comprehensive personal finance plans, emphasizing the necessity of a holistic service offering​ 6​.
  • Tip: Choose a planner offering a spectrum of services including retirement planning, estate planning, and risk management.
  1. Why is it important for a financial planner to offer a variety of services?A variety of services allows for a holistic approach to financial management, ensuring that all aspects of your financial life are considered and managed in a coordinated manner. This might include mutual funds, tax planning, and more.
  2. What is retirement planning, and why is it crucial?Retirement planning involves preparing for life after you stop working, which includes saving, investing, and making other financial arrangements to ensure a comfortable living post-retirement.
  3. What does estate planning entail?Estate planning involves the management and disposal of an individual's estate during their life and at and after death, while minimizing gift, estate, generation skipping transfer, and income tax.
  4. What is risk management in the context of financial planning?Risk management in financial planning refers to the identification, assessment, and strategizing to mitigate or manage financial risks that could negatively impact your financial situation.

 

 

Mistake 5: Underestimating Continuous Communication

 

 

  • Stat: Clients report higher satisfaction levels with higher frequencies of investment-related educational communications and scheduled meetings, underscoring the importance of continuous communication​ 7​.
  • Tip: Ensure your financial planner maintains open channels of communication, keeping you informed and engaged throughout your financial journey.
  1. How can I ensure that my financial planner maintains open channels of communication?
    You can set expectations for communication upfront, such as preferred methods of communication and frequency of updates. It's also helpful to choose a planner who is responsive and willing to engage in regular discussions about your financial plan.
  2. Why is communication important in financial planning?
    Communication is crucial to ensure that you and your financial planner are on the same page regarding your financial goals, risk tolerance, and any changes in your financial circumstances. It also helps in building trust and understanding throughout the financial planning process.
  3. What are some red flags regarding communication with a financial planner?
    Red flags could include lack of responsiveness, unwillingness to answer your questions, failure to provide clear explanations, or not initiating regular reviews and updates as agreed upon.
  4. How can effective communication with a financial planner impact my financial journey?
    Effective communication can lead to better understanding, trust, and alignment between you and your planner, which in turn can result in a more effective financial plan and a more satisfying financial journey.

 

 

 

Conclusion:

 

Avoiding these common pitfalls when choosing a financial planner can significantly steer your financial voyage towards success. Engaging with a reputable firm like Trilogy Financial not only helps sidestep these mistakes but also ensures a tailored, client-centric approach delivered by qualified professionals, fostering transparent communication throughout your financial journey​1​.

 

 

 

 

 

You may also like:

Investment Insights

Investment Terminology for Beginners & Where to find Help

By Trilogy Financial
February 20, 2024

Introduction

 

Investing can be a stepping stone towards financial freedom, yet the journey begins with understanding the basic terminology. This guide aims to unravel key investment terms, explore various investment types, and delve into the long-term investment advantages, all illustrated with real-world examples and statistics. As you venture into the financial world, remember that professional guidance is available to help navigate the complexities of investing. At Trilogy Financial Services, a dedicated financial advisor can work with you to amplify your wealth and fast-track your financial independence. Discover more about how they can assist you in planning for long-term success as we delve into the essential investment terminology.

 

 

 

Defining Key Investment Terms

 

 

1. Stocks:

    • A share of ownership in a company which may yield returns through price appreciation and dividends.
    • A share of ownership in a company. Stocks have the potential for high returns, with the S&P 500 for example having a long-term average return of 11.88% per year​1​.

 

2. Bonds

    • Debt instruments issued by governments or companies that pay periodic interest and return the principal amount at maturity.
    • Debt instruments that pay periodic interest and return the principal amount at maturity. They are considered less risky compared to stocks.

 

3. Mutual Funds

    • Investment vehicles that pool money from multiple investors to buy a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities.
    • Pools of funds from multiple investors managed by professionals to buy a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities.

 

4. ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds):

    • Funds that track indexes, commodities, or a basket of assets and are traded on stock exchanges like individual stocks.
    • Like mutual funds but traded on stock exchanges like individual stocks.

 

5. Dividends:

    • Payments made by companies to shareholders from earnings, usually on a quarterly basis.
    • Dividends are not guaranteed by companies to shareholders

 

 

 

Exploring Investment Types

Different types of investments cater to varying risk appetites and financial goals. In 2020, 35% of respondents believed real estate to be the best long-term investment, followed by the stock market​2​.

1. Growth Stocks:

    • Companies expected to grow at an above-average rate compared to other firms.
    • Examples: Amazon (AMZN), Nvidia (NVDA), and Tesla (TSLA) have shown substantial growth over the past decade​1​.
    • Companies like Amazon, Nvidia, and Tesla are examples of growth stocks that have shown substantial growth over the past decade​3​.

 

2. Value Stocks:

    • Companies trading below their intrinsic value based on fundamentals.
    • Examples: Exxon Mobil (XOM), Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), and Verizon Communications (VZ) are considered value stocks​1​.

 

3. Dividend Stocks:

    • Firms that have historically returned a portion of their earnings to shareholders through dividends.
    • Examples: AT&T (T), Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), and 3M (MMM) have high dividend yields​1​.

 

4. Bond Investments:

    • Bonds are considered less risky than stocks and provide fixed interest payments over time​1​.
    • Bonds are essential for balancing a portfolio and are generally considered less risky than stocks​3​.

 

5. Mutual Funds and ETFs:

    • These funds provide diversification and professional management, making them suitable for long-term investors​1​.

 

Advantages of Long-term Investments

 

Long-term investments, typically held for five years or more, allow the benefits of compounding to significantly enhance the value over time​4​. It's important to understand your risk tolerance when it comes to determining your investment portfolio such as the amount of money you want for your retirement account and what investments in stocks might yield the higher returns and market capitalization you are looking for in your broader financial goal.

 

Why Long-term Investments Are Valuable:

 

  • Compounding:
    • One of the most compelling reasons for long-term investing is the benefit of compounding. When you reinvest the earnings from an investment, those earnings can earn more over time. The longer the investment horizon, the more substantial the compounding effect.
  • Reduced Impact of Volatility:
    • Short-term market volatility can significantly affect investment values. However, long-term investments tend to smooth out these short-term fluctuations, potentially leading to more stable returns over time.
  • Tax Efficiency:
    • One common advantage of a long-term investment is that they often enjoy more favorable tax treatment compared to short-term investments, which can enhance net returns.
  • Diversification:
    • Long-term investments allow for diversification, spreading out risk across different asset classes or sectors, which can lead to more stable returns over time.

 

Delving into Case Studies and Numbers:

 

  • Warren Buffett:
    • Warren Buffett is a quintessential example of a long-term investor. His strategy of buying and holding quality stocks has led to significant wealth accumulation over decades. His approach exemplifies how a disciplined, long-term investment strategy can lead to substantial financial growth.

 

  • Growth of $10,000 Investment:
    • In the scenario provided earlier, a $10,000 investment growing to $33,618 over 20 years with a 7% annual return showcases the power of compounding. The formula to calculate future value is FV=PV(1+r)n
      • Where:
        • FV is the future value of the investment.
        • PV is the present value or initial investment amount ($10,000 in this case).
        • r is the annual interest rate (0.07 in this case).
        • n is the number of years (20 in this case).

 

 

  • Investment in Growth Stocks:
    • Companies like Amazon, Nvidia, and Tesla have shown remarkable growth over the past decade, often outperforming the broader market. The ROI (Return on Investment) is calculated as:
      • (Final Value of Investment – Initial Value of Investment)/Initial Value of Investment)×100
      • (Final Value of Investment – Initial Value of Investment)/Initial Value of Investment)×100. Their high ROI illustrates the potential returns available from investing in growth-oriented companies over the long term.

 

 

  • S&P 500 Long-term Average Return:
    • The long-term average return of 11.88% for the S&P 500 illustrates the potential for growth over time when investing in a diversified portfolio of large-cap US stocks. It also reflects the historical resilience and growth potential of the broader market over extended periods.

 

 

 

Conclusion

Understanding investment terminology and exploring various types of investments are crucial steps toward achieving financial growth. As illustrated through real-world examples and reinforced by compelling statistics, long-term investments offer a pathway to potentially grow wealth over time. However, the realm of investing can be complex, and making informed decisions is vital for financial success. If you are looking to make well-informed investment decisions, consider speaking with a financial advisor at Trilogy Financial Services. With the help of qualified professionals, you can navigate the financial complexities that may be hindering your wealth amplification journey. Trilogy Financial Services offers a range of financial services including 401k Retirement Planning, Wealth & Asset Management, Estate Planning Strategies, Investment Strategies, College & Education Planning, and Insurance Services, all tailored to help you achieve your financial goals​1​.

Instead of spending years mastering finances on your own, partnering with those who have already traversed the financial landscape can fast-track your financial success. A dedicated financial advisor from Trilogy Financial Services can work with you to make your money work smarter and harder, simplifying the financial intricacies that have been keeping you up at night. You can schedule a no-strings-attached portfolio review today and embark on a path to financial success guided by professional advisors. For more information and to schedule your consultation, visit www.trilogyfs.com/yourmoneyamplified. With the right knowledge and professional guidance, the journey of investing becomes an exciting venture towards pursuing financial security and growth.

 

 

Read more
Life Planning Advice

College – The Next Chapter: The Selection Process

By
David McDonough
May 31, 2019

It’s graduation season, and there’s an excitement in the air about starting a new chapter. Mixed in with this excitement is an element of stress to make the right decisions: decisions on how things should be done, when they should be done and where they should be done. All these decisions are common, but they often distract from the purpose of what comes after high school.

We need to remember that higher education has a purpose. It’s more than an experience. The purpose of a college degree is employment. It is an investment, and as with any other investment, you should be calculating the return on that investment.  Spending $100,000 for a degree that secures a job with an annual salary of $40,000 is not the best rate of return.

There are plenty of creative ways to get a great college education without breaking the bank. Parents can start a 529 plan, the earlier the better, to help cover costs. Students can begin their higher education at a community college or secure college credit via Advance Placement (AP) exams. Additionally, students need to be sure that the field they are spending their time and energy on is going to reciprocate by providing solid career opportunities.

Making the wrong decision is not simply an unwise financial move. It can have lasting implications. Recent figures show that outstanding student loan debt has reached $1.5 trillion[i]. Our younger generation is not only struggling under this debt, they are also pushing off other personal and financial milestones, such as purchasing a house[ii], getting married or starting a family[iii]. These decisions can have long-lasting and far-reaching consequences.

Lastly, let’s not forget the countless parents who put their path to financial independence on hold to financially assist their struggling children. While wanting to financially help your loved ones is admirable, it helps no one to offer assistance at the expense of your own security. Just like when traveling by airplane, you need to put your own oxygen mask on and secure your safety first before aiding others. There are no scholarships for retirement, and you won’t have a financial safety net for the future if you don’t work towards creating it now.

College is truly an exciting time. Our young adults are learning who they are, where they want to go and how they intend to get there. At the same time, we cannot forget that college is a fleeting moment, one that is meant to arm the student with the tools needed to create a brighter and more successful future. Be sure to chat with your students to ensure that this experience does just that, rather than straddle these students with debt and stress.

[i] https://www.marketwatch.com/story/student-debt-just-hit-15-trillion-2018-05-08

[ii] https://www.businessinsider.com/student-debt-preventing-the-us-from-having-normal-housing-market-2019-5

[iii] https://www.bankrate.com/loans/student-loans/student-loans-survey-february-2019/

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Prior to investing in a 529 Plan investors should consider whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program. Withdrawals used for qualified expenses are federally tax free. Tax treatment at the state level may vary. Please consult with your tax advisor before investing.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Prior to investing in a 529 Plan investors should consider whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program. Withdrawals used for qualified expenses are federally tax free. Tax treatment at the state level may vary. Please consult with your tax advisor before investing.

Disclaimer:

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Stock investing involves risk including loss of principal.

Bonds are subject to market and interest rate risk if sold prior to maturity. Bond values will decline as interest rates rise and bonds are subject to availability and change in price.

There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk.

Investing in mutual funds involves risk, including possible loss of principal.

The principal value of a target fund is not guaranteed at any time, including at the target date. The target date is the approximate date when investors plan to start withdrawing their money.

No strategy assures success or protects against loss.

Read more

Get Started on Your Financial Life Plan Today