Ask Susan!

Dear Susan: Why do some stocks work in one portfolio but not another?”

For those who prefer to watch and listen (click video) Susan helps explain what true balance is within your portfolio.

October: Food & Drink – “Ask Susan” Video

Hello, I’m Susan Stiles, Founder and President of Stiles Financial Services.

In my most recent Ask Susan column, someone asked, “Dear Susan: Why do some stocks work in one portfolio but not in another?”

It’s a great question. And one that everyone asks when we sit down to create a financial plan.

The analogy I used in the column, related to pairing a glass of Barolo with wild mushroom risotto. The wine’s bold tannins worked perfectly with the mushroom’s earthy flavors, whereas a Pinot Noir or a Sauv Blanc wouldn’t have been able to stand up, therefore working against the dish.

That same idea applies to investing and asset allocation. Balance is everything.

So, why do some stocks work in one portfolio but not in another?

Because tastes differ.

Some people prefer bold flavors — higher growth, higher risk. Others prefer something lighter and steadier — less risk, more stability. Neither is right or wrong. It depends on your risk tolerance, your goals, and where you are in life.

And here’s the key: your tastes change over time. What feels right in your 30s may not be right in your 50s. The portfolio that fuels growth early on often needs to shift toward stability as you get closer to retirement.

That’s why we sit down with you consistently throughout your lifetime. We adjust your assets to match your evolving palate, so your plan grows and changes right alongside you.

Think of us as your sommeliers of retirement planning and portfolio management. Our role is to understand your unique “palate” and create a portfolio pairing that fits you just right.

Too much risk, and you may lose sleep. Too little growth, and you may not reach your goals. But the right mix — customized for you — brings everything together in harmony.

Thanks for joining me in this month’s AskSusan column. I invite you to reach out if you’d like to explore the financial pairings that match your unique taste.

Have a wonderful October and I’ll see you next month with another informative column.

– Susan

 

 

Video transcribed by https://otter.ai