Style Box
The investment style box is a visual tool that classifies mutual funds and ETFs by the size (large, mid or […]
The investment style box is a visual tool that classifies mutual funds and ETFs by the size (large, mid or […]
Style drift happens when a fund diverts from its prospectus defined investment strategy to pursue another course.
A defined contribution retirement plan similar to a defined benefit plan since employer contributions, which are mandatory, are based on
A type of mutual fund or ETF that automatically adjusts its mix of stocks, bonds and other assets based upon
This market strategy focuses on selling a portfolio’s worst performing security to 1) offset realized capital gains of winning securities,
A method of evaluating securities that focuses on the assumption that detailed market data, such as charts of price, volume,
The lettering system used to identify a stock, mutual fund, or ETF on an exchange. Also called trading symbols.
The rate of return that reflects the annual dividend paid on a stock (if any) plus any capital appreciation that
The rate of return that reflects the annual dividend paid on a stock (if any) plus any capital appreciation that
Shares of stock issued and in the hands of shareholders. Total shares outstanding can usually be found listed on company

Dennis J. Prout, CFP®
They told you that time would go fast and that it would gain speed with age. Here you are, so many years later realizing that this is true.
St. Augustine said, "The future is the logical conclusion of decisions made in the present day." He couldn't have been more right. In hindsight, you would have saved a little more, worried a little less and taken more time planning for this moment - your retirement —or, as they say, your "golden years."
There are two things weighing heavily on your mind:
The first: Did you save enough during your working years? Not just save, but did you plan appropriately?
The second: Will you have enough to live on for the next 20 to 30 years? Can you maintain your financial independence?
Speaking of independence…. you start to think of your children. They are grown and have their own families and responsibilities. You love them but you don't want to be dependent on them. You'd like to leave assets to them if you can, but you'd rather see those go to your grandchildren. Will they appreciate it?
Your mind wanders to the million little decisions made along the way. There are so many details to consider when you assess a lifetime of discipline and hard work. Oddly enough, you realize that retirement planning is the only plan where you start from an unknown end date and work backward - to now. Future you, I suggest you use hindsight as foresight. Remove the mystery and replace it with a plan. After all, who wants to spend their retirement catching up? Unless, of course, it's with old friends, family and those little ones who have your heart.
Sincerely,
1040 E. Front Street & Traverse City, MI 49686 www.proutfinancialdesign.com
(p) 231.947.3992 (f) 231.947.3995 (tollfree) 800.968.2588
Advisory Services offered through Capital Asset Advisory Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.