Gaining Clarity and Confidence in Their Investment Journey

John and Sarah

Services Used

Integrated Investment Management and Financial Planning

Background
John and Sarah are a married couple in their 40s, committed to their family’s well-being. As they navigate the intricacies of investing, doubts have started creeping in, leaving them unsure if their current approach is the right one. They recently received a large tax bill due to one of their investments and don’t understand why. For years, they’ve felt like they’ve muddled through investing on their own, not really sure if they’re doing it right. They also want to explore the world of social values or ESG investing. Finally, they wonder how to balance their retirement savings with college savings for their children.

Propel’s Approach

John and Sarah worked with Propel to assess their current portfolio. Their advisor determined which investments and current strategies were adding to taxable income and explained to John and Sarah why they should put certain investments into different types of accounts. Their advisor walked them through establishing appropriate accounts to use for their retirement savings in order to achieve a proper foundation of tax diversity.

Next, John and Sarah had an in-depth conversation with their advisor about their social values. They determined that some values would be appropriate to incorporate into their portfolio, while others were better incorporated into a charitable giving plan. Finally, John and Sarah worked with their advisor to establish a savings and investing plan. They developed a strategy for regular monthly deposits in line with their budget that they could contribute toward both their retirement goals and college savings for their children.

Now

Propel actively manages their investments as a fiduciary. John and Sarah meet regularly with their advisor to discuss any updates to their financial circumstances. Propel also keeps them informed through newsletters, webinars, and podcasts with any changes in the markets and economic updates. Occasionally, Sarah comes across a new investment idea and suggests it to her advisor, who helps her understand how it will affect their investment portfolio. Sarah enjoys being able to contribute and bounce her ideas off of a trained professional.

Meanwhile, John is happy that the burden of investment management is on someone else’s shoulders, allowing him to sleep better at night. Both have more time and energy to focus on activities they enjoy.