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Life Planning Advice

The Value of a Real Person

By
Zach Swaffer, CFP®
May 9, 2019
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Whenever new technology enters the world there are two inevitable emotions: excitement and fear. The thrill of new possibilities tempered by fears of new tech failing to live up to the hype. Take, for example: Robo-advisors. A great example of the complexities surrounding emerging tech, Robo-advisors provide automated digital financial advice based upon algorithms and/or mathematical rules.

When Robo-advisors launched in 2008 they were heralded as the dawn of a new era in financial planning. Some experts even believed this advancement signaled the end of financial planning (and real, human financial planners) as we know it. Not so. Over a decade later Robo-advisors are still around; however, they have failed to take over the financial planning world as predicted and in fact many are shuttering their doors or seriously scaling back on size.

So what happened? Why did Robo-advisors fail to eliminate the role of humans in the financial planning process? At the end of the day, it comes down to human connection. While an algorithm can crunch numbers, make predictions, and even offer investment advice, it cannot form impactful and lasting relationships like a real human. Investment selection and management is a part of what financial planners do – but that is only the tip of the iceberg. Real, effective financial planners are there to prepare you for and coach you through life’s unexpected inevitables. What happens when some life event inevitably occurs or you have a pressing question about your financial plan and when you try to get an answer you reach an automated phone tree that leads nowhere? Unlike a Robo-advisor, a financial planner is a real human available to provide advice and support when you need it. Think of them like a coach for your finances!

True, a human financial planner may cost more than a Robo-advisor. But in return they provide much more value. A study conducted by Vanguard found that working with a financial planner can add about 3% to client returns with 1.50% of that coming from behavioral coaching (that’s half the value coming from coaching alone!). When you start working with a planner you are not simply hiring an investment manager. Instead, you are partnering with someone who will work with you as life evolves to achieve your unique priorities. As you progress along your financial journey you form a trusting relationship with your advisor, so whenever you have questions or concerns you know there is a real human you trust who will answer the phone and provide clarity for you.

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Retirement Planning Advice

Retirement Compatibility

By
David McDonough
February 22, 2021

Preparation for retirement is extremely important, and it extends well beyond finances. In addition to knowing how you’re going to fund it, you also need to know what your time will look like when you say you’re done with being a wage earner. With this new lifestyle, you not only need to determine how to fill up the hours in the day, but you also need to determine what your new purpose is. This can be a pretty significant task, which becomes even more complicated when you add another person to the equation. That’s why you need to work on your retirement compatibility with your partner way before you stop working.

Retirement Compatibility is a tricky thing. Statistics show that half of the couples disagree on their retirement age —and a third don’t see eye-to-eye about their expected lifestyle in retirement[i]. This is troubling as there are a lot of logistics you need to determine in this new chapter of your life. Will you be retiring at the same time? Typically, only 1 in 10 couples retire together[ii]. If you and your partner are planning on retiring at different times, you may want to look into how this change affects your health insurance. You may also want to consider re-establishing household roles. Equally important, you will need to find common ground on your retirement budget as it will require commitment from both parties.

Oftentimes, the difficulties in transitioning from a wage-earner to a retiree can go beyond the logistics. Some experience a period of depression as they look for a new purpose in life. As tempting as it may be, that new purpose shouldn’t be your partner. If you don’t plan correctly, you will suffer from what I call too much togetherness. This can be a very real strain on relationships. Instead, look at your life as being divided into “You Time, Me Time, and We Time.” To aid in this transition, you may want to try winding down your career gradually in order to practice retirement. This can prove to be a benefit to both yourself as you experiment with this new stage in your life and your employer as you stay on to train and mentor your replacement.

Start working on your retirement compatibility with your partner with regular financial date nights. Start discussing how you envision that new chapter in your life. What type of lifestyle do you want to live? Will there be a lot of dinners out with friends or home-cooked meals watching your favorite television show? Will you be traveling or developing a new passion? Will you work part-time or volunteer? Communication is key. Share your plans with your partner so that the two of you stay on the same page and prevent incorrect assumptions from being made.

Retirement, a lifestyle of six Saturdays and one Sunday, can be either a wonderful time or a stressful transition, depending on your planning. Make sure you and your partner’s planning extends beyond finances to ensure a smooth and joyous new chapter in your lives.

[i] https://www.fidelity.com/bin-public/060_www_fidelity_com/documents/couples-retirement-fact-sheet.pdf

[ii] https://assets.aarp.org/rgcenter/general/retired_spouses.pdf

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine what is appropriate for you, consult a qualified professional.

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Investment Insights

Woburn Financial Advisors Reveal Strategies for Maximizing Your Investments

By Trilogy Financial
June 26, 2024

Introducing Financial Advisor Woburn

 

In Woburn, Massachusetts, financial advisors at Trilogy Financial Services, such as Tom Elkins, Dale Sarpard, and Mohammed Siddiqui, are guiding clients towards financial success with personalized investment strategies. Leveraging their collective expertise and local market understanding, these advisors offer unique insights into maximizing investments.

 

Understanding the Woburn Investment Landscape

 

The economic landscape of Woburn offers diverse investment opportunities. Advisors like Tom Elkins, an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, emphasize the importance of understanding local market trends and how they can impact investment choices. With their finger on the pulse of Woburn's economy, these advisors tailor their strategies to leverage local strengths. Some of these Key Strategies and Insights from Trilogy Financial Advisors include:

  • Collaborative Strategy: Emphasizing a team-based approach, Trilogy Financial ensures clients benefit from diverse expertise and financial planning woburn.
  • Comprehensive Solutions: By pooling the knowledge of various advisors, the firm can offer more holistic financial plans.
  • Enhanced Understanding: This approach leads to a deeper comprehension of each client’s unique financial situation.
  • Complex Situation Management: The collaborative effort of the team allows for effective management of intricate financial scenarios.

 

Tailored Investment Strategies

 

Each investor's journey is distinct, and advisors at Trilogy Financial Services recognize this. Dale Sarpard, with his extensive experience, illustrates the importance of creating investment plans that align with individual goals and life stages. From retirement planning to wealth management, their strategies are as unique as their clients.

 

Tom Elkins' Approach:

  • Emphasis on understanding local market trends for informed investment decisions.
  • Advocacy for personalized financial planning tailored to individual goals.
  • Specialization in retirement planning and wealth management strategies.

 

 

 

 

Risk Management Techniques

 

Effective risk management is a cornerstone of successful investing. Mohammed Siddiqui, known for his client-focused approach, underscores the significance of a well-diversified portfolio. By balancing risk and return, these advisors help clients navigate market volatility with confidence.

 

Mohammed Siddiqui's Methodology:

  • Prioritizing client-focused risk management and portfolio diversification.
  • Adapting investment plans to changing market conditions and personal life changes.
  • Utilizing technology for real-time investment insights and efficient planning.

 

 

 

 

Future-Proofing Your Investments

 

Woburn's financial advisors are adept at adapting investment strategies to evolving market conditions and personal circumstances. They prioritize long-term sustainability, ensuring that clients' investments can withstand economic shifts and personal life changes.

 

Dale Sarpard's Expertise:

  • Extensive experience in developing comprehensive financial plans.
  • Focus on aligning investment strategies with life stage and financial objectives.
  • Expertise in navigating complex financial scenarios for diverse client profiles.

 

 

 

 

Leveraging Technology for Investment Success

 

In today's digital age, technology plays a crucial role in investment management. Trilogy Financial Services utilizes advanced tools and platforms to provide clients with real-time insights and streamlined financial planning processes.

 

Conclusion

The advisors at Trilogy Financial Services in Woburn are committed to guiding clients through the complexities of investing. With personalized strategies, expert risk management, and sophisticated technology, they are equipped to help you achieve your financial goals. For those seeking to maximize their investments, consulting with these local experts is an invaluable step towards financial prosperity.

 

Ready to Amplify Your Wealth today?

 

If you're ready to elevate your financial planning with our professional team, we invite you to schedule a meeting with us. At Trilogy Financial Services, our advisors in Woburn are dedicated to crafting personalized financial strategies that align with your unique goals. Don't wait to start your journey towards financial success:

Schedule a Meeting: Reach out to us to arrange a one-on-one consultation with our financial professionals.

Give Us a Call: Prefer a quick conversation? Feel free to give us a call to discuss your financial needs and how we can assist. Call Us To Get Started. (844) 356-4934

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 achieving financial security and growth. This way, you're not just dreaming of an ideal retirement but actively working towards making it a reality.

 

 

 

 

*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.

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