Our Guiding Philosophies

Embrace market pricing

The market is an effective information-processing machine. Each day, world equity markets process billions of dollars in trades between buyers and sellers — and the real-time information they bring helps set prices.

Don’t try to outguess the market

The market’s pricing power works against mutual fund managers who try to outperform through stock picking or market timing. As evidence, only 14% of US equity mutual funds and 13% of fixed income funds have survived and outperformed their benchmarks over the past 15 years.

US-Based Mutual Fund Performance, 2003–2017

Resist chasing past performance

Some investors select mutual funds based on their past returns. Yet, past performance offers little insight into a fund’s future returns. For example, most funds in the top quartile (25%) of previous three-year returns did not maintain a top-quartile ranking in the following three years.

Percentage of Top-Ranked Funds That Stayed on Top

Let the markets work for you

The financial markets have rewarded long-term investors. People expect a positive return on the capital they supply, and historically, the equity and bond markets have provided growth of wealth that has more than offset inflation.

Growth of a Dollar, 1926–2017 (compounded monthly)

Consider the driver of returns

Academic research has identified equity and fixed income dimensions that point to differences in expected returns. Investors can pursue higher expected returns by structuring their portfolio around these dimensions.

Dimensions of Expected Returns

Practice smart diversification

Holding securities across many market segments can help manage overall risk. But diversifying within your home market may not be enough. Global diversification can broaden your investment universe.

Home Market Index Portfolio

Global Market Index Portfolio

Avoid market timing

You never know which market segments will outperform from year to year. By holding a globally diversified portfolio, investors are well positioned to seek returns wherever they occur.

Annual Returns by Market Index

Manage your emotions

Many people struggle to separate their emotions from investing. Markets go up and down. Reacting to current market conditions may lead to making poor investment decisions.

Avoid Reactive Investing

Look beyond the headlines

Daily market news and commentary can challenge your investment discipline. Some messages stir anxiety about the future, while others tempt you to chase the latest investment fad. When headlines unsettle you, consider the source and maintain a long-term perspective.

Focus on what you can control

A financial advisor can offer expertise and guidance to help you focus on actions that add value. This can lead to a better investment experience.

  • Create an investment plan to fit your needs and risk tolerance.
  • Structure a portfolio along the dimensions of expected returns.
  • Diversify globally.
  • Manage expenses, turnover, and taxes.
  • Stay disciplined through market dips and swings.

Let us help define your financial legacy