How to explain why Bitcoin exists to a layman:
Start where they are at
Show the state of the world by showing:
https://www.usdebtclock.org/
Explain that the interest payments on the debt are now more than the spend on US defence
Explain that people that hold it and understand it are doing so as it’s outside of the ‘normal’ system. Much like why people have held gold in history
Don’t advise on whether to buy it – advise studying it
Explain why you hold it (if applicable), e.g. an alternative / insurance for 1% of my portfolio. If I lose 1% I don’t mind, but it has a history of growing substantially.
Investing involves risk, and past performance isn't a guarantee of future results. This information is not personal advice; please consider your circumstances or seek professional advice before making financial decisions. We are a FCA-regulated IFA. Always check the FCA register for our status.
Unlocking the Magic of Efficient Asset Allocation: Your Path to the Efficient Frontier
Post:
🌟 Why Efficient Asset Allocation Matters: Imagine you're a chef with a limited number of ingredients to make a meal. Your goal isn't just to make food; it's to make the most delicious meal possible. In finance, your ingredients are your assets, and the goal is not just returns, but the best risk-adjusted returns - this is where efficient asset allocation comes into play.
📷 What is Efficient Asset Allocation? It's the strategy of distributing investments across various asset classes to maximize returns for a given level of risk. The key is diversification, but with a twist: not just spreading your investments, but optimizing where and how much you invest in each asset class.
📷The Efficient Frontier: Picture a graph where one axis represents risk and the other, return. The Efficient Frontier is a line on this graph where, for every level of risk, the expected return is maximized. Here, portfolios lie on this frontier because they offer the highest return for the least risk possible.
Diversification: This isn’t just about not putting all your eggs in one basket. It's about choosing baskets that complement each other in performance. When one goes down, another might go up or remain stable.
Asset Classes: Stocks, bonds, real estate, commodities - each has different risk-return profiles. The art is in calibrating the mix.
Optimization Tools: Modern portfolio theory uses mathematical models to find this optimal mix, often considering historical performance, correlations between assets, and expected future returns.
📷 Why It's Not Just Theory:
Real-World Application: Financial advisors use software to plot out your portfolio against the Efficient Frontier. The aim? To nudge your portfolio closer to this line, adjusting for your risk tolerance and investment horizon.
Dynamic Adjustments: Markets change. An efficient portfolio today might not be efficient tomorrow. Regular rebalancing is necessary.
Personalization: Your Efficient Frontier might look different from mine. It's tailored by age, financial goals, income, and risk appetite.
📷 Your Next Steps:
Assess Your Risk: Understand how much volatility you can stomach.
Diversify Wisely: Don't just diversify for the sake of it. Aim for assets with low or negative correlations.
Review and Rebalance: Markets evolve, so should your portfolio.
By embracing efficient asset allocation, you're not just investing; you're crafting a strategy that could potentially lead to better financial outcomes. Remember, the Efficient Frontier isn't just a line on a graph; it's your roadmap to smarter investing.
📷 Want to dive deeper? Drop your questions below or let's discuss how to optimize your portfolio towards the Efficient Frontier!
Investing involves risk, and past performance isn't a guarantee of future results. This information is not personal advice; please consider your circumstances or seek professional advice before making financial decisions. We are a FCA-regulated IFA. Always check the FCA register for our status.
With the UK Budget set to be unveiled tomorrow by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the air is thick with speculation. Here's what the chatter on X and broader media hints at:
Taxation Tactics: Expect a mix of new taxes and adjustments to existing ones. There's buzz about potential increases in duties on everyday items like cigarettes, alcohol, and possibly even fuel. Speculation also points towards changes in inheritance tax, maybe even tweaking the thresholds or reliefs to raise more revenue.
Public Spending Surge: The NHS, education, and infrastructure are rumored to be in line for significant funding boosts. Despite the promises, skepticism abounds on how effectively these funds will be utilized, with some cynicism about the creation of new bureaucratic roles rather than direct service improvements.
Economic Growth vs. Tax Burden: The government's push for economic growth might come with a heavier tax burden on employers and potentially on personal income, possibly through a freeze on tax thresholds, effectively increasing tax take due to inflation.
Social Promises and Reality Checks: While there's talk of investment in green initiatives, social care, and leveling up, the reality check for many might be the cost passed down to the average citizen, potentially through indirect taxes or reduced benefits.
Market Movements: Financial markets are bracing for impacts, with hints of adjustments in minimum wage and employer contributions possibly affecting business sentiments and investments.
This Budget, the first by a Labour Chancellor in over a decade, aims at tackling a fiscal hole while promising growth and fairness. Whether it'll be remembered for bold economic restructuring or for the immediate financial pinch on individuals remains to be seen. Tomorrow's announcements will either cement public faith in the new government's strategy or fuel further debate on the economic direction of the UK.
What are your predictions for tomorrow? Will the Budget be a beacon of economic hope or a beacon of higher costs? Let's discuss! #UKBudget #RachelReeves #EconomicSpeculation
We're not expressing any views here. But it's irresponsible not to consider all sides of an economic argument. El Salvador has had quite a rise, and the president share's his views here on whether income tax is necessary when governments can print money (which is tax via stealth by devaluing what we have). Some out of the box thinking or is he just a crazy dictator? https://x.com/WallStreetApes/status/1806808317580480978
An interesting chart here from an Austrian Economist on how we use property for saving (we are used to hearing from Keynesian economists in the West - it's important to balance the info we absorb)
Saifedean Ammous
@saifedean
Going off the gold standard in 1914 stopped a centuries-long increase in affordability of homes by degrading the value of money, forcing people to use their homes as saving accounts, raising house prices beyond the rise in income
https://x.com/saifedean/status/1807407980666552385?s=46
Financial planning isn't just about money - it's about security & freedom! Set goals, manage debt, & plan for the future. Your future self will thank you. #financialplanning #adulting
Saw an amazing post to put in context the https://usdebtclock.org
Our heads can't picture a trillion vs a billion vs a million but this helps:
A million seconds ago was May 8th
A billion seconds ago was 1993
A trillion seconds ago was 30,000 B.C.
Credit
@Geiger_Capital
Would you rather have £1m now or 1p that doubles every day for 31 days?
It’s a trick question – you would want the 1pm, trust me.
#compoundgrowth is very important in #investing – courtesy of AI, see below what only an extra 5% a year does:
What’s the difference between 10% and 15% growth over 10 years on £10k?
Over 10 years, a 5% difference in growth rate can result in a significant amount of money.
Here's how much difference 10% and 15% growth would make on a £10,000 investment:
10% growth: After 10 years, with a 10% annual growth rate, your £10,000 investment would grow to £25,937.42.
15% growth: At a 15% annual growth rate, the same £10,000 investment would reach £40,578.04 after 10 years.
The difference in future value between 10% and 15% growth over 10 years on £10,000 is £14,640.62.
In short, a higher growth rate can significantly increase your investment's future value. However, it's important to remember that higher growth rates are often accompanied by higher risk. It's always wise to consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
#personalfinance #investing #moneygrowth #financialfreedom #futuregoals #compoundinterest #smartmoney #growyourwealth #investmenttips #finance
Have you thought about this? How much #property ownership is so we have somewhere to live & how much is for #investment as a #storeofvalue for wealthy people and corporations?
What If - a viable competitor to property is created that is seen as a 'better' store of value - could the #storeofvalue narrative be challenged for property?
Were that to happen it could change the investment outlook for property everywhere dramatically - #safeashouses could be under threat.
One to watch. We are moving into the digital age and things will change beyond what we can imagine.
Think gold! Hard currencies are limited (like gold) & hold value. Printing too much (like with some soft currencies) can cause inflation, making each unit worth less. #Econ101 (Schools should teach this!)
So, the Japanese Yen has been downgraded, what do we make of this? They have more than 200% debt to GDP - the worst in the world. They are also the biggest holders of US treasuries. Watch this space! #Japan
How does #war effect #Markets #IranIsraelConflict
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Though war and defense spending can amount to a sizable portion of the U.S. GDP, wars often have little sustained impact on stock markets or economic growth at home.
Markets largely have ignored recent conflicts related to the Middle East and Iran.
A broader regional war, however, may have a more severe impact, especially on oil and other commodity prices.
Still, stock markets have often quickly recovered to pre-invasion levels only a matter of days or weeks after armed conflicts or standoffs begin.
https://investopedia.com/solving-the-war-puzzle-4780889
Is inflation chipping away at your savings? #GoldStandard could be the answer! A return to gold-backed currencies would limit reckless printing & stabilize prices. #SoundMoney #MakeMoneyMatter Let's get the conversation going!
Congress passed a HUGE $1.2 trillion spending bill to fund the government, but lawmakers only had a short time to review it! This raises concerns about accountability & whether this will cause further inflation (which the US export to US....). What's in the bill & is it the best use of our money? #BudgetBill #Accountability
Advancewealth.co.uk is celebrating 15 years of making financial dreams a reality! Here's to 15 more years of helping people ditch the piggy bank and level up their finances. #FinancialFitness #AdvanceWealth #InvestingMadeEasy
#Drawdown vs #Annuity for #idiots
Drawdown:
Imagine: You keep your retirement pot invested, like a big piggy bank. You take out money ("draw it down") whenever you need it.
Pros: Flexibility: You control your income. Need more cash? Take it out. Want to leave some for your heirs? It's yours! Growth potential: Your investments might grow, giving you more money over time.
Cons: Risk: Investments can go down too, meaning your pot could shrink. You could run out of money if you live longer than expected. Responsibility: You need to manage your investments and withdrawals carefully.
Annuities:
Imagine: You hand over your retirement pot to an insurance company in exchange for a guaranteed income for life. It's like buying a retirement paycheck.
Pros: Security: You get a fixed income no matter how long you live. Peace of mind! Less responsibility: The insurance company manages the money, not you.
Cons: Less flexibility: Your income is fixed. Can't adjust it easily if your needs change. No inheritance: Once you die, any remaining money in the annuity is gone. No passing it on.
Choosing: Like security and guaranteed income? Annuity might be for you. Want flexibility and control? Drawdown could be better.
Important note: This is a simplified overview. There are different types of annuities and drawdown options with their own details.
Remember: Don't rely solely on this guide. Talk to a financial advisor to understand your options and make the best choice for your specific situation.
Ever wondered why things seem to get more difficult financially for you each year while you work harder and harder? It's by design. Recommended reading....: https://www.youtube.com/c/ThePriceofTomorrow
Have you heard of the "Fourth Turning"? ⏳ It's a theory about 80-year historical cycles, each ending in a ~20-year crisis of transformation. Think revolutions, wars, major change! Are we in one now? What do you think the future holds? #FourthTurning #Generations #History
Disruptive stocks can disrupt your portfolio too... in a good way. Think Netflix vs. Blockbuster . While established players resist change, these innovators challenge the status quo, often leading to BIG returns. Example: Tesla defied auto giants, soaring from $17 to 187$ since 2010! Do your research & remember, disruption breeds opportunity! #investing #innovation #stocks Can you wok out what the next disruptive asset or company will be? Tesla still? Bitcoin?
Please note:
This is just an example, and you should always do your own research before investing in any stock.
Disruptive stocks & assets can also be very volatile, so be prepared for the possibility of significant losses.
It is important to consider your own investment goals and risk tolerance before investing in any stock.
Where are YOU most influenced by your #investments & #lifeoutlook? TV hype, radio pundits, social media frenzy, or your own gut? Let's hear it! #DecisionDrivers #FinancialWisdom #MindsetMatters
Weighing London vs. Wall Street: 🇬🇧 #FTSE100 vs. 🇺🇸 #S&P500
Similarities: Both offer access to global giants, liquidity, & diversification.
Differences: #UK stocks lean towards consumer staples & financials, while #US leans towards tech & healthcare.
Volatility: #US markets tend to be more volatile, but also offer higher potential returns.
Tax: UK dividends taxed at 20%, 🇺🇸 US at 15%. Both have capital gains taxes.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your risk appetite & investment goals. Do your research! #investing #stocks #finance
Bonus: #AIM for exciting growth potential in the UK, or #Nasdaq for tech-heavy exposure in the US.
Let me know in the replies which market you prefer and why!
January: the market's crystal ball? Some say its performance sets the year's tone. Stats say it's 50/50:
Strong Januaries precede strong years 55% of the time.
But a weak Jan doesn't doom the year: markets recover 68% of the time after a down Jan. #MarketMythDebunked #JanuaryBarometer #InvestingTips
#BRICS expansion is official! Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, & UAE join the club. What does this mean for the future? More economic & political clout for the Global South? Shifting alliances & a multipolar world? Will it challenge Western dominance? Only time will tell! #NewWorldOrder #GlobalShift #WatchThisSpace
Any help out there for a UK based financial adviser wanting to help my clients understand Bitcoin? And no idea where to start….especially as it would have to involve no advice for regulatory reasons.
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#Drawdown vs #Annuity for #idiots Drawdown: Imagine: You keep your retirement pot invested, like a big piggy bank. You take out money ("draw it down") whenever you need it. Pros: Flexibility: You control your income. Need more cash? Take it out. Want to leave some for your heirs? It's yours! Growth potential: Your investments might grow, giving you more money over time. Cons: Risk: Investments can go down too, meaning your pot could shrink. You could run out of money if you live longer than expected. Responsibility: You need to manage your investments and withdrawals carefully. Annuities: Imagine: You hand over your retirement pot to an insurance company in exchange for a guaranteed income for life. It's like buying a retirement paycheck. Pros: Security: You get a fixed income no matter how long you live. Peace of mind! Less responsibility: The insurance company manages the money, not you. Cons: Less flexibility: Your income is fixed. Can't adjust it easily if your needs change. No inheritance: Once you die, any remaining money in the annuity is gone. No passing it on. Choosing: Like security and guaranteed income? Annuity might be for you. Want flexibility and control? Drawdown could be better. Important note: This is a simplified overview. There are different types of annuities and drawdown options with their own details. Remember: Don't rely solely on this guide. Talk to a financial advisor to understand your options and make the best choice for your specific situation.