Investment Management
Apprise provides wealth management services on a fee-only basis. Client portfolios are managed according to the client’s stated investment goals and objectives. Portfolios are tailored to the needs of the individual client.
We work closely with the client to draft an investment policy statement (IPS) which sets the parameters for the investment portfolio. Among other factors, the statement incorporates investment return expectations, risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity needs, and income requirements in formulating an asset allocation and asset location framework.
Our Approach
We employ a value-oriented investment style holding a combination of growth and value stocks, exchange-traded funds, and mutual funds. Value stocks typically trade at low prices relative to anticipated earnings and have above-average dividend yields. Growth stocks offer value when purchased at prices that do not reflect future growth potential. Our goal is not necessarily to beat the market but to build a portfolio that allows clients to meet their short- and long-term goals and objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you determine the right investment strategy for me?
We start with your financial situation, goals, time horizon, income needs, liquidity needs, and comfort with investment risk. Those factors help us develop an appropriate asset allocation and investment strategy. Your portfolio should reflect your needs rather than a generic model or someone else’s definition of the “right” portfolio.
What is an Investment Policy Statement?
An Investment Policy Statement, or IPS, documents the framework we use to manage your portfolio. It typically addresses your investment objectives, risk tolerance, time horizon, liquidity needs, income requirements, and target asset allocation. It provides a structure for investment decisions and helps keep the focus on your long-term plan.
How do you determine how much investment risk I should take?
Risk tolerance is only one part of the conversation. We also consider how much risk you need to take to support your goals and how much risk your financial situation allows you to take. The objective is to build a portfolio that supports your plan without taking unnecessary risk.
Will my investment portfolio be customized?
Yes. We tailor portfolios to each client’s circumstances, goals, and financial plan. While clients may own most of the same investments, the appropriate asset allocation, account structure, income needs, and other portfolio decisions can differ significantly from one client to another.
How does investment management fit with financial planning?
We view investment management as part of the larger financial picture. Your portfolio should support what you are trying to accomplish with your money, whether that includes retirement, providing income, managing taxes, navigating a life transition, or funding other priorities. Investment decisions are stronger when made in the context of your overall financial plan.
Do you consider taxes when managing investments?
Yes. When appropriate, we consider the tax characteristics of different accounts and investments as part of the portfolio-management process. This includes deciding where to hold investments, how to coordinate withdrawals, and how tax consequences affect portfolio choices. Tax considerations shape the overall strategy rather than drive investment decisions on their own.
How often do you review my portfolio?
We monitor portfolios on an ongoing basis and review them in the context of your financial plan and circumstances. Changes may be appropriate when your goals, cash-flow needs, tax situation, time horizon, or other important factors change. We do not believe in changing a portfolio simply because markets are making headlines.
What happens to my investment strategy when markets become volatile?
Market volatility is expected from time to time. Rather than reacting to short-term market movements, we return to your Investment Policy Statement, financial plan, time horizon, and cash-flow needs. If those have not changed, significant portfolio changes may not be necessary. If your circumstances have changed, we can evaluate whether your strategy should change as well.
Do you try to time the market?
Our investment approach focuses on building and maintaining a portfolio designed to support your long-term financial plan, rather than trying to predict short-term market movements. We believe investment decisions should be driven primarily by your goals, needs, and circumstances, rather than headlines or market forecasts.
Can my investment strategy change as my life changes?
Absolutely. Your portfolio should evolve as your life does. Retirement, divorce, widowhood, an inheritance, a career change, or changes in spending can affect your income needs, risk capacity, time horizon, or priorities. We revisit the investment strategy when those changes warrant it.
Why Choose Us
INTEGRATED APPROACH
It is through detailed financial conversations encompassing all aspects of our clients’ lives that we empower people to make informed decisions.
ACCOUNTABILITY
PEACE OF MIND
At Apprise, we understand that short-term tactics can be important but they must be executed based upon wise strategic decisions rather than best-guess predictions.
Pathway to Informed Success