Stableford Capital Insights

The stock market’s plunge in 2020 revealed the weaknesses of many low-risk funds, and the advantages of Separately Managed Funds (SMAs) when it comes to surviving and thriving in chaotic times.

A big part of investing is knowing where you stand and what future events might alter your views. The 2020 Election is one such event. Politics aside, the events of the election have what equity-geeks call a high level of dispersion—a wide range of outcomes. We’ve studied the election extensively- read our analysis of the key election impacts – and what Stableford’s positioning in front of the elections.

In the Stableford Market Commentary October 2020 the election results and Senate makeup are factors that are driving the markets. A divided government is among the better results from an equity market perspective due to a reduction in the risk of higher corporate taxes and minimizes the possibility for less a corporate-friendly cabinet appointees in the new administration.

Investments start with a goal in mind – to build up a fund to pay for kids’ education or build a nest egg to secure retirement income are just two typical goals. For this reason, it’s natural for the investment approach of non-professionals to place a greater emphasis on asset growth. But, as assets grow, security becomes a bigger issue. Investment professionals understand how to create the balance between growth and protection – discover why and how they do it.

Money mindset starts early in life, from parental models to media influence and advertising. This psychology of investing refers to financial habits and dictates how someone spends and saves money. Through behavioral finance, an advisor gains insight into these habits to better coach the investor on how to manage money responsibly to ultimately gain financial wellness.

Governments around the world are considering expanding their currency to include digital dollars. Using central bank digital currency will offer some benefits like direct-to-citizen payments and indisputable accounting. However, the concerns regarding inflation and technology corporation oversight is delaying immediate acceptance.

When it comes to automating tasks and gathering data, technology takes the lead. But when it comes to interpreting the data and comparing it with clients’ unique financial goals, human interaction is key. A good financial advisor combines both technology tools and personal relationships to give clients positive investment experiences and positive returns.

Transferring wealth to beneficiaries should be done with tax reduction in mind. Keep an estate intact by strategizing with gifting, insurance, buy/sell agreements, and trusts. Retain control of business assets and benefit from profits while arranging for a smooth transfer of responsibilities in estate planning.

For Q4 of 2020, businesses may defer the payroll tax from their qualifying employees’ paychecks, giving employees a 6.2% wage increase. However, repayment is due beginning in January 2021. With payroll overhauls required and the possibility of being responsible for un-repaid taxes, many business owners question whether this payroll tax deferral is worth it.

Being named executor of an estate plan can be both an honor and a difficult task. Learn the basics to begin probate, protect assets and distribute to beneficiaries. Consulting with professionals like Stableford Capital can also simplify the process.