A message from American Century Investments Wayne Park, Senior Vice President, Personal Financial Solutions
Many people have worries about money. These can lead to abandoning your investments during rocky markets or making decisions that may not pay off in the long run. The alternative is to follow a sound plan that can anchor your emotions.
Have you heard about FOMO—the fear of missing out? It’s the anxiety people have when they feel left out. And it’s not just for 20- and 30-somethings on social media. People with investing FOMO fear missing out on high performance. They may chase a hot investment one day only to sell later when it fizzles.
There’s also FOLO—the fear of losing out. Not as widely known as FOMO, I’m using FOLO to refer to the anxiety investors have about losing money. This can lead some to sell or move to cash investments at the first sign of a rocky market and stay there.
Worry can skew perceptions and lead to decisions that give the very results you don’t want. For example, in the first six months of 2020, the stock market experienced one of the worst drops in history, but also one of the highest gains. The average for that period is actually modest, but many did—and still do—only focus on the dramatic drops.
Those in the FOLO camp may have moved into a money market (or out of the markets) and missed the big loss, but also the big gain. Unfortunately, this could have resulted in locking in the losses and missing the rebound.
Succumbing to FOMO can play out as selling at a loss and later buying high—the opposite of what you want to do. This market timing can expose you to missing out on what you want: Some of the market’s best days. That’s why we advocate time in the market as a better strategy.
The good news is that you can make investing decisions based on proven strategies instead of emotions. There are ways to strike a balance and avoid guessing what to do next, including practicing these:
Trading One Risk for Another? Find the Right Balance explains how low risk impacts your rewards. It also reviews choices to keep your money growing. Read now
The Surprising Truth About Diversification further breaks downs this important principle and sets the record straight on what it is and is not. Learn more
Investing during uncertain times can feel scary, but I encourage you not to lose heart—even if you made a knee-jerk reaction along the way. Instead, focus on a long-term plan that’s built just for you and your goals—including how you feel about risk. Need help with your plan? Don’t hesitate to call us.
As always, thanks for your confidence in us.
Click the date to read previous articles from Wayne Park.
July 2, 2020
July is a special month for us, and not just because of Independence Day. Every year we look forward to the American Century® Championship—a celebrity golf tournament that brings sports and entertainment personalities together in an exciting competition.
It’s fun to watch even if you’re a non-golfer. But the Championship isn’t just about the game or us. It’s about changing lives by supporting causes we’re passionate about. After the hazards so far in 2020, the Championship is just one way we’re choosing to play out the rest of the year with conviction. Let me share how we can make a difference—together.
Playing golf is one thing, but managing your money and making a difference are serious business for us. Our inspiration for both started with our late founder and his desire to do something meaningful for people. In the beginning, it was about helping individuals become financially independent.
Now, our purpose also includes impacting others through medical research that has the potential to save lives. It’s the heritage the Stowerses—our founder and his wife—gave to us.
Learn how Jim and Virginia Stowers turned their passion into a legacy. Read their story and find out how you play a part too.
Helping you with your investments is still as important today as it was when Jim started the company. How you personally approach your finances is just as important.
You may be rethinking your previous planning methods; especially given the unexpected events we’ve experienced. Continued market ups and downs may also have you wondering what to do next.
Like a golfer who faces challenges on the course, market turbulence can threaten to take you off track. It helps to know how to adjust when difficulties arise. Our Weathering the Storm: 4 Time-Tested Investing Strategies article is a good resource for you. If you’d like to speak with someone about your finances, please call us.
I hope you will join us in helping change circumstances for others—and have some fun while you do it. Here are two ways to get involved:
As always, we appreciate your confidence in us. Together, let's reach for new ways to impact the future of prosperity and health for others.
Best Regards.
July 10, 2020
If there’s a lesson from 2020, it’s that you can’t always know what’s coming your way. However, you can decide what you will do. You’ll hear that message this weekend when you tune in to the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament. We’re asking ourselves and you: How will you “play it?” How can you respond to make the future better for yourself and others?
This contest has now concluded. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Must be 18 to enter. Read full contest rules.
Let me share how we’re choosing to respond. It’s starts by sticking with our convictions—both in how we manage money and seek to positively impact the future. I also have some ideas about how you can “play it” for the people in your life.
For you, our number one job is delivering investment results to help you save for college, retirement or for any other reason you invest. Your goals are important and we actively manage money to help you be successful. Our investment professionals work to outperform by:
Learn more about how we’re invested in you and your future.
Making a difference is part of our DNA. Throughout our history, we've been committed to helping people become financially independent. And through the unique relationship with our primary owner, the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, our dividend payments support the Institute's work of uncovering the causes, treatments and prevention of life-threatening diseases.
The American Century Championship is an extension of that purpose and will support some of today’s most critical causes.
As our client, you play a role in all of it. Your continued confidence allows us to keep reaching for ways to impact not only your future, but the future of others. Thank you for that.
You wouldn’t be investing if you weren’t playing it for the future. But I also know that investing can be complicated. It’s our job to break it down and help you stay informed so you can make decisions that are right for you.
Part of it is making real people available to answer your questions, but you also need the right tools. It’s why you hear from us about the markets, events in our world, and other topics that may impact your finances. Find our latest insights and news in our COVID-19 Center.
Whether it’s family, friends or other important people in your life, I’m convinced that few of us invest only for ourselves. How can you impact your loved ones? This year has made it evident that planning is crucial—especially for the unexpected.
Read Plan Your Legacy at Any Age to find out why estate planning is important for your loved ones and get information to help you start.
Large scale or for the people in your circle, making a difference motivates us to do our best. We’re here to help you make an impact for those you love. Help us impact others by tuning in to the American Century Championship.
Let’s play this together for the future. If you need help, don’t hesitate to call us.
Best Regards.
July 17, 2020
While markets continue their up and down reactions to headlines and economic news, it can be hard to know what to do with your investments. Should you stay the course? Run to safety? Uncertainty can make you wonder what the next move should be. Let’s review some basics to consider for money decisions.
Many people think about investing as being “in” or “out” of the markets. We perceive “in” as risky and “out” as safe during volatile times. Let me remind you that investing has a risk spectrum—from low to high. In between cash and the most aggressive stocks are many different levels of risk.
The risk spectrum also relates to rewards—generally the higher the risk, the higher the potential returns, and vice versa. What’s important is that the risk/reward balance in your portfolio fits your goals and your timeline.
Understand the importance of risk for your short- and long-term goals. Read Golf and Investing: More in Common Than You Think to put it in perspective.
In music, a one-hit wonder is a song that’s briefly popular. Investors with just one investment—unless it includes a mix of others like a fund-of-funds or model portfolio—may set themselves up for a one-fund wonder. Like that one ‘80s song, your investment could be famous for a performance spurt followed by an infamous sudden drop. We advocate a diversified portfolio.
A diversified portfolio includes a mix of the broad investment categories below. Each category plays a different role in a portfolio and within each are several choices with varying levels of risk and reward.
Money markets fill a stabilizing role and give you easy access to your money. However, sitting in a money market fund to avoid risk can be risky too. Returns likely will not keep up with inflation.
Bonds play the lead for income. They are essentially loans from you to entities (corporations, governments) that agree to pay you back with interest over time. While most can have less risk, the rewards are generally lower than stocks.
Stocks take center stage for growth, allowing you to participate as companies grow. Stock funds range from moderate to very aggressive—depending on the kinds, sizes and locations of companies they invest in. They typically offer the highest rewards with the highest risks.
Need help putting your portfolio together? Call us for help.
Deciding what to do with your money should not be an emotional choice. Having your portfolio risk match you and your goals is one way to do that. Another way is to invest regularly. That helps take the emotion out of when to invest.
Read Keep Emotions in Check—Automatically to see how automatic investing can help you remove the emotional decisions and take advantage of market swings.
Deciding if you should make a change with your money is an important step. Being aware of the investing principles I’ve discussed is a start, but sometimes talking it over with someone can help. That’s why we’re here. Please don’t hesitate to call us.
As always, thanks for your continued confidence in us.
Best Regards.
Investment return and principal value of security investments will fluctuate. The value at the time of redemption may be more or less than the original cost. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
This material has been prepared for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal or tax advice.
Diversification does not assure a profit nor does it protect against loss of principal.
Generally, as interest rates rise, the value of the securities held in the fund will decline. The opposite is true when interest rates decline.
July 24, 2020
What’s more personal than money? Not much. That’s because personal decisions are intertwined with finances, and vice versa. It’s nearly impossible to make a financial decision without it affecting your loved ones too. Below are some thoughts for how to align personal and financial decisions, and not lose sleep over them either.
Financial matters that impact you also affect those around you. An income setback, a job loss, and as we know well, a global pandemic, can change more than your money. Situations such as these and even less critical ones can also affect relationships, so it’s important to consider the impacts of your choices.
A current example: As states and administrators navigate reopening (or not) parents may need to adjust their work life (again). Grandparents and other family members may also be called upon to help, giving caregiving a whole new meaning.
Traditional and expanded caregiving needs can change family dynamics overnight. But even non-critical events need a plan. Hopefully you can prepare for these very personal and financial decisions before they occur, though I realize sometimes it’s not possible. Either way, I encourage you to consider your family and your own financial future in decision making.
Read Caregivers: Take Care of Yourself, Too for information about how you can manage finances in a caregiving situation.
Financial decisions often boil down to tradeoffs. A decision to invest for retirement may mean you spend less now in exchange for a potentially comfortable lifestyle in the future. Saving for an education could equate to cheaper family vacations, but hopefully less reliance on student loans for your child later.
These examples affect your bottom line today but may be worth a payoff later. Choosing the opposite—spending today—will also affect your future finances. Weigh priorities and their impacts when making financial decisions.
Finally, knowing your financial decisions impact your loved ones can feel weighty. However, I encourage you to not fret over your choices—past or present. As humans, we feel proportionately worse about losing money than we feel good about gaining it.
Even if you’re rethinking a decision, you can keep moving forward. And if you need to talk over your money decisions with someone, remember we’re here. Don’t hesitate to call us.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your personal financial decisions. We don’t take it lightly.
Best Regards.
July 31, 2020
It’s the end of July, and who would have imagined our lives and finances would still be under such pressure? With virus cases continuing to rise in many places, social questions still outstanding and the markets responding differently from day to day, it’s no wonder we’re feeling the weight. Taking control may offer relief.
Stress of any kind can have an impact on our wellbeing. From sleepless nights to physical symptoms, it’s clear that prolonged stress is a concern. Beyond our health, worries about how COVID-19 did or still could affect your finances is real, too.
According to a recent survey , Americans report that they are nearly 15% more financially stressed now compared to the end of last year. Unfortunately, the respondents believe this heightened stress could have a lasting effect. On the bright side, the study indicated that people are paying more attention to their finances. If you are stressing over money, the resource below may help.
Taking control of your finances is one way to help relieve stress. If that sounds stressful, the key may be to take one step at a time. You don’t have to solve all your financial questions at once.
A way I relieve stress is to organize something. It’s my way of controlling one thing amid so many things that I can’t. I encourage you to do the same with your finances.
What could that look like for you? Maybe it’s requesting a portfolio review from one of our consultants to make sure you have the right amount of risk for your current situation. Or reviewing your budget to see if it still works for your family.
Another thing you can do is simplify, especially if your investments are spread out among different places. How about bringing that old 401(k) together with a retirement account here? Viewing your investments in one place can make it easier to keep track of everything and see how you’re progressing.
Taking care of just one thing is a good place to start in reducing financial stress. Talking it over with a real person can help, too. That what we’re here for. Please don’t hesitate to call us.
And as always, thank you for letting us help with your financial future.
Best Regards.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a personalized recommendation or fiduciary advice. There are different options available for your retirement plan investments. You should consider all options before making a decision. Our representatives can help you evaluate all of your distribution options.
June 5, 2020
I think it’s safe to say that the past few weeks and months have been challenging for most people in our country. Impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic have led to financial market volatility, staggering unemployment and a potential recession.
On top of that, our nation is experiencing deep pain. I recognize that as much as I am troubled by events in the U.S., I cannot fully appreciate what George Floyd’s family, friends and the African American community are feeling. My hope is that you, your family and community are healthy and safe; and that the remainder of 2020 will be a time of renewal and recovery.
Despite a world pandemic, signs of recession and a distressing social environment, the stock market continues to remain positive because of investors’ expectations and their hopes for resolutions. We believe this reinforces the stock market’s forward-looking view versus the bond market, which reflects today’s volatile elements. However, like many circumstances these days, markets can change quickly. Regardless of which direction, we are here for you.
Through times of uncertainty, we are thinking about you and your investing goals. It’s why our investment professionals stay focused on the long term and manage your money with the same steadfastness as always. We believe it can help you find success through the many ups and downs the markets may encounter.
How can you be ready for any environment? Follow our lead and keep a long-term view of your own investments. To stay focused, it helps to have a plan. If you don’t have one, or want to recheck a current plan, remember we’re here to help.
As always, we appreciate your confidence in us.
June 12, 2020
Six months into this decade, and who would have thought that 2020 would prove to be a time of so many drastic changes? Many have altered their personal lives regarding health, perspectives and much more. It takes innovative thinking to adapt—and that also applies to your finances.
Innovation is a significant piece of the puzzle that our portfolio managers look at when deciding in which companies to invest. Companies that adapt and change often signal good opportunities for growth, even in uncertain times.
Just like your investment needs can change, so can what you require from services. Maybe you want to make account changes faster or need help navigating market turbulence. Two of our most recent service changes include:
Innovation is also part of our DNA. You may not know that our primary owner is world-class biomedical research organization, to which we pay annual dividends ($1.6 billion since 2000).
This ownership gives us a story unlike any other in the investment world. Read how it allows us to have a different kind of purpose that has the potential to save lives. You play a role in that too.
Your investment helps us support this ongoing medical research, and we can’t thank you enough. We’re also committed to continue evolving as you change. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have a need right now.
Private Client Group advisory services are provided by American Century Investments Private Client Group, Inc., a registered investment advisor. This service is generally for clients with a minimum $50,000 investment. Call us to determine the level of service that is appropriate for you. The advisory service provides discretionary investment management for a fee. All investing involves risk.
June 19, 2020
Current conditions are causing us to focus only on today’s financial needs—for good reason. But there’s another reality we should not lose sight of: Today’s road bumps won’t stop the future, and that includes your retirement. The solution? Balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s goals.
Balancing finances for now with your retirement goal is essential. If you’re already retired or it’s a few years away, it’s even more critical. I encourage you not to allow current road bumps (or craters) steer you completely off track.
Instead, refocus some of your financial energy on the future. That includes being aware of some important aspects for retirement. We have some resources to help.
Developments since COVID-19 could also affect your retirement plans. Here are a few to consider as you reassess:
Pre-tax verses post-tax contributions, taxes when you withdraw or tax-free withdrawals—compare Traditional and Roth IRAs to see which might work best in a new tax world. You may also want to look at other tax-advantaged investment choices, including municipal bonds. Call us to find out more.
Looking ahead, there’s still much uncertainty about outcomes for the pandemic, social distress and how the economy and markets will react. But we can all be certain about this: The future will come. Let us help you refocus and reevaluate so your plans don’t break down along the way.
Please consult your tax advisor for more detailed information regarding the Roth IRA or for advice regarding your individual situation.
Taxes are deferred until withdrawal if the requirements are met. A 10% penalty may be imposed for withdrawal prior to reaching age 59½.
IRA investment earnings are not taxed. Depending on the type of IRA and certain other factors, these earnings, as well as the original contributions, may be taxed at your ordinary income tax rate upon withdrawal. A 10% penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal before age 59½.
June 26, 2020
If recent market ups and downs have done anything positive, it’s reminded us how crucial it is to make wise financial decisions and to know how to handle money properly. That’s also an important lesson you can share with kids because, like it or not, they’re watching and learning from you. The good news? We can help you teach money smarts with our five lessons.
Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or family friends—anyone can make a difference in a young person’s life when it comes to teaching them about money. It doesn’t matter if you sailed through this current financial upheaval or have taken a few missteps. Either situation can be a good life lesson for kids. At the end of the day, we want them to be successful and avoid pitfalls we or others may have experienced.
Is financial knowledge important? A recent survey suggests that it’s more important than ever. Nearly 9 in 10 Americans report that the COVID-19 crisis stressed their personal finances. The biggest culprits?
Source: National Foundation for Financial Education, April 2020
Help your kids be more prepared for their futures. This summer may be a great time to get them learning about all aspects of money. With limited openings of camps, swimming pools and other typical summer activities, take advantage of the extra time they may have and enroll them in your own “money camp.” Not sure how or where to start? We’ve got you covered.
Our Raising Financially Aware Kids eBook includes activities for any age—from understanding the value of money to saving and investing to managing credit for older teens, you’ll find a variety of activities to keep them busy. Download the free eBook.
While you’re exploring ways to help the kids learn about money, don’t forget to stay on top of your own financial education. Right now, it’s particularly important to understand how markets can react to crises, and what you should (or shouldn’t) do about it. Below are some resources that can help.
Bear markets? Bull markets? Watch our video to learn what they are and how they relate to the economy.
Buy, Sell, Hold? Learn the do’s, don’ts and maybes of managing finances in volatile markets.
It’s never too early to start teaching kids about finances. It’s never too late for you to increase your own knowledge. For you, another important aspect is learning about your portfolio. Is it working smart for you? If not, how and why? Call to let us help
May 1, 2020
It’s an emotional time for many with health and financial fears. The worst fear may be the unknown. It’s also a time when many make hasty decisions. But sometimes the best course is to take a step back, weigh the options and rely on what you know to be true.
Last week we asked what worries you most right now. Not surprising, health concerns ranked first. Many expressed that they were equally anxious about the combination of their financial futures, employment, life after the pandemic and market volatility. Let me address health and financial worries here.
Caring for yourself can take on many forms, but one that may be overlooked is having plans in place to address health issues. These include health insurance, medical, estate and comprehensive financial plans. All can be critical if you experience a health problem. In addition, planning goes a long way to helping relieve stress and anxiety because you know you’ve taken steps to prepare.
While the answers to many concerns may take time for individuals and the nation to figure out, there are strategies for addressing market volatility anxiety. Large market dips—even for a few days—can rattle the most confident investor. In the midst, I encourage you to resist quick moves that may do more harm than good in the long run.
Below are two strategies to help keep emotions in check and your money working for you. You can also find more about these in our COVID-19 Center.
Is it complicated? Only if you try to time the markets. Market timing requires you to be right twice: When you buy and when you sell, and few, if any, are successful at it.
A better option is to invest regularly and take advantage of dollar-cost averaging—buying more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high. The easiest way is to set an automatic investment at an interval of your choice. Doing it automatically takes the emotion and guesswork out of “when” to invest. Read more about dollar-cost averaging in our latest article.
Fear and worry are normal when everything around us isn’t. I hope you take comfort in knowing we are in this together, and we are here for you. If your investment plan has you concerned, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a consultant for help.
As always, our best to you and your loved ones.
May 8, 2020
As we experience market ups and downs sparked by the pandemic, it’s a good reminder that risk is a natural part of using money. While there’s no way to get around risk, there are ways to manage it.
From hiding your money under the bed to investing in the latest trends, risk is involved in all the ways you seek to preserve or grow your money. Even the mattress option has risks: It’s not insured. It won’t grow. And, it won’t keep up with inflation. I encourage you to know the risks before you decide where to put your money.
It might help to compare these and their potential risks and rewards. Many confuse them and how they’re different, so let me break them down.
Bank savings are the traditional way, but others have gotten creative. Think coffee cans, freezers and of course, under the mattress.
Preservation is the goal; however, in the best of times you may earn interest, but right now the annual interest rate is only about .07%.1
1Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, as of April 27, 2020.
Investing can help you build wealth over time for long-term goals such as your retirement. There are many investment vehicles, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds and exchanged-traded funds. Within each category are a variety of choices too.
Rewards can be much higher than a savings account but investing carries more risks—one of which we know well: market risk. The stock market’s average annual 10-year return is 11.68%, but its one-year return is .86%.2
2S&P 500 Index data as of April 30, 2020. The S&P 500 Index is a capitalization-weighted index of 500 widely traded stocks. Created by Standard & Poor’s, it is considered to represent the performance of the stock market in general.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of security investments will fluctuate and it is possible to lose money.
Trading attempts to take advantage of market ups and downs at a given point. Stocks, bonds and commodities (goods that can be sold on an exchange) can all be traded.
Rewards can be higher, but the lows can be much more dramatic too. You don’t have to look too far into the recent past to see how risky it could be. This year alone, the stock market fell approximately 34% between February and March.3
3Source: Wall Street Journal Markets, S&P 500 Charts, May 2020.
At American Century Investments, we invest for the long-term and believe you should too.
The answer is personal and one you should base on your goal for the money—preservation, long-term or short-term—and your feelings about risk. Start by answering these questions:
There’s no way to avoid risk if you want your money to have growth potential. However, let me offer some ways we can help you manage it:
The alternative to managing risk is to avoid it, and that can have a long-term effect on your money and what you’re investing for. Some jumped out of the markets at the first sign of rough waters as COVID-19 began to spread. They may have also missed the moderate rebound we saw later, and unfortunately locked in those losses. Let us help you find a better way.
May 15, 2020
In the financial world, we use labels to describe what’s happening in the markets or the economy. What labels don’t do is tell you what to do with your portfolio. Honestly, they shouldn’t. Focusing on long-term goals is a better way to make decisions—especially during uncertain times.
Some labels can spark anxiety or make us feel too confident. Many experience fear when they hear terms like bear market, or even worse, recession. Out of distress, some will act without considering potential long-term effects on their money.
On the flip side, bull markets tend to give us more confidence. Unfortunately, they can also make us forget that bear markets occur too. Extended bull markets, like we experienced over the past decade, can make a decline seem even more dramatic.
A bear market is a 20% drop in an index (often the S&P 500 Index) from its most recent high. It’s not the same as a “correction,” which is a 10% drop.
A bull market is a 20% increase from the most recent low.
Recessions describe economic slowdowns. Officially, they are indicated by two consecutive quarters of decline in the gross domestic product (GDP)—the output of goods and services in a country or economy.
The S&P 500 Index is used as a benchmark for stock market performance. This performance is not an indicator of economic health, but the two are related.
Recessions and bear markets are often discussed in the same conversation because recessions tend to follow bears, but not always. For example, right now the stock market has returned to bull territory—having risen 20% from its most recent low—but most economists agree that the U.S. economy is in recession.
It’s important to note that markets usually recover before the economy does and recessions can last longer. Why? The stock market looks to future earnings of businesses and where investors believe the economy is headed, versus current economic output.
As the U.S. gradually reopens, many are hoping that the economy will recover soon. To hear about possible scenarios, be sure to watch Multi-Asset Strategies CIO Rich Weiss’ latest video.
Investing through a recession isn’t something you’ve had to deal with in a while—newer investors may have never had to at all. Before the pandemic, the markets had been so good for so long, so it feels like new territory.
Whether you acted after the initial market declines in the first quarter or decided to hold the line, recent volatility and a slowed economy have likely impacted your portfolio. However, those events shouldn’t necessarily dictate what you do next. Instead, base portfolio decisions on your own goals, how much time you have and how much risk you want to take.
You don’t have to navigate market conditions alone. Whether you need to stay the course or reallocate, it’s important to talk through your options before you make a move. That’s why we’re here. Please don’t hesitate to call and let us help.
May 22, 2020
Times of crises often drive people to seek help—even if they have never asked before. That’s a good thing. Who can go through life without needing assistance from time to time? When you want to know if you’re doing the right thing with your money or just need a second opinion, you’re in the right place.
Many of you are long-time clients, having first invested with us 20 or more years ago. Thank you! We appreciate the loyalty and commend you on your long-term investing view. That same view guides how we manage your money.
There’s something else we’re passionate about that you may or may not know. While we started out as a mutual fund provider, we’re also here to help answer the question many people want to know: Am I doing the right thing with my money?
I want to make sure you know about the services available when you need help. The following may be especially helpful during the uncertainty we’re experiencing now in both the markets and the economy.
Investment Guidance – Get help choosing investments that address a specific need—such as capital preservation. A consultant can help you understand the different funds we offer and which may match what you’re looking for. The service is free to any American Century® client.
Portfolio Reviews – Go a little more in-depth with a portfolio review. A consultant will look at your portfolio as a whole and make sure it fits your specific goals, your timeline and especially for right now: whether you have the right amount of risk. Portfolio reviews are also free upon request to clients.
Advice and Planning – If you’re looking for more attention to your finances, check out our Private Client Group.* This newer service may be our best kept secret yet. About 1,000 of our clients have already taken advantage of it because they like having dedicated financial consultants in their corner—plus the financial advice, in-depth planning and expert portfolio oversight if offers.
You might also be surprised that our premium service does not have the high minimums required by other advisors and it’s available for one-fee**—a truly unique feature in our industry.
Want more information about working with an advisor?
I know there are many online, or robo advisors, out there and they’ve been popular among those who like to manage investments on their own. While those have their place, there are times when it’s nice to talk to a person. You can get that here when you need it.
Also know that our consultants do not work on commissions and don’t benefit from recommending a particular investment over another. The heart of our services is to help you know if you’re doing the right thing for who and what you’re investing for. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
*
Private Client Group advisory services are provided by American Century Investments Private Client Group, Inc., a registered investment advisor. This service is generally for clients with a minimum $50,000 investment. Call us to determine the level of service that is appropriate for you. The advisory service provides discretionary investment management for a fee. All investing involves risk.
**
Annual Investment Advisory Fee is 0.90% for balances $5 million and under and 0.70% for balances over $5 million. American Century Investments Private Client Group charges a single annual fee based on the value of your assets under management with us. The single fee includes our Private Client Solutions, along with any underlying trading costs, commissions, and custody services related to our recommendations. American Century Investments' financial consultants do not receive a portion, or a range of the advisory fee paid by clients. Client-oriented trades outside of our recommendations and other activities like wire transfer fees, may result in additional cost.
May 29, 2020
Through StormsIt’s hard to think about what’s down the road when there’s so much happening right now and probably more uncertainty ahead. One thing I believe: You and your loved ones deserve a bright future. Having a plan is one way to help you on your way to what matters most.
All of us will likely look back with unbelievable stories about how we spent our time in 2020. Some will have sad memories about the virus. Others will have funny tales about sheltering in place and working from home. Graduates will remember virtual ceremonies, and our kids may tell stories about how parents didn’t know math as well as the students.
What we discover about living through the pandemic may very well impact the future and how we view our finances too. We’ll likely have a different perspective about emergency accounts, savings priorities and the value of financial planning for critical times.
Regardless of what life will look like years from now, I encourage you to not lose sight of what it could be. Planning now will be one of the best investments you can make in your own life and those closest to you.
If you don’t have the means to invest right now, don’t feel guilty. You can still have a plan regardless of your current financial status. As soon as you’re able, put these on your list of to do’s—replenishing your savings, adding to an emergency fund and investing more.
If you have children, also add saving for their education, so they can reach for their dreams. For yourself, add retirement savings too. Sometimes we think about others and immediate expenses and put off our own retirement planning. It you need help with all these priorities, we can help.
Despite what’s happening in our world, we are choosing to celebrate 529 Day today. May 29 is a time to focus on the importance of saving for an education and the benefits of 529 savings plans. A 529 is not only an easy way to save for your student’s future, it also offers some nice tax breaks for you now.
The availability of tax or other state benefits (such as financial aid, scholarship funds and protection from creditors) may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements, such as residency, purpose for or timing of distributions, or other factors.
If you don’t have a savings plan for your student, I invite you to learn more, by reading our article that busts myths about 529s. You can also enter our contest for a chance to win $1,529 in a new or existing Learning Quest® 529 Education Savings Program. It will make a nice start or addition to your savings. The contest ends May 31 so you still have a few more days to enter.
No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. See contest rules
Education savings and retirement planning are just two ways to prepare for the future. Another way is to check up on your portfolio. A portfolio review is as important to your finances as an annual physical is to your health. Find out more about portfolio reviews, and don’t hesitate to call us to evaluate yours. It's free, and it's all part of the services you get from us.
Join me in looking towards the future with hope.
IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: American Century Companies, Inc. and its affiliates do not provide tax advice. Accordingly, any discussion of U.S. tax matters contained herein (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, in connection with the promotion, marketing or recommendation by anyone unaffiliated with American Century Companies, Inc. of any of the matters addressed herein or for the purpose of avoiding U.S. tax-related penalties.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor for more detailed information or for advice regarding your individual situation.
Before investing, carefully consider the plan's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook, available by contacting your financial advisor or American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor, at 1-800-579-2203, and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the beneficiary's home state offers a 529 Plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan.
Notice: Accounts established under Learning Quest and their earnings are neither insured nor guaranteed by the State of Kansas, the Kansas State Treasurer or American Century Investments.
Administered by Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner
Managed by American Century Investment Management, Inc.
Distributed by American Century Investment Services, Inc.
As with any investment, it is possible to lose money by investing in this plan. The value of your Learning Quest account may fluctuate, and it is possible for the value of your account to be less than the amount you invested.
April 10, 2020
If these were regular times, you might find yourself rushing to meet an April 15 tax deadline or making a last-minute IRA deposit to squeak in one more deduction. But this is 2020 and nothing is normal.
If we ever needed a break, it’s now. Fortunately, financial relief is on the way with the stimulus package and an extended tax deadline—now July 15. What will these changes mean for you?
Congress passed the CARES Act to assist Americans as we experience threats to our health and finances. It offers help for individuals, families, businesses and industries. With several rules and guidelines included, you may need help unraveling the details.
Find those in our CARES Act: Your Questions, Answered article, as well as answers to questions we’ve received from clients like you. In addition, you’ll find an article about ways to free up emergency money if you find yourself needing to cover expenses quickly.
Whatever your circumstance, remember our consultants are available to help you walk through decisions that may impact your finances now and in the future. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We continue to hope for the best for you and your loved ones’ health and safety.
April 17, 2020
The current global crisis is proving to be the ultimate stress test. While we all cope in our own ways, I hope there’s comfort in knowing that we’re in this together. This week we’re focusing on ways to help manage the challenges we’re all facing—from investments to home life.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out with your questions.
Take care of yourself and your loved ones. It’s what matters most.
April 24, 2020
The need to have financial and health plans in place because of COVID-19 is not a topic any of us like to think about. However, it would be a disservice if we didn’t encourage you to take steps to prepare. It doesn’t mean you don’t have hope, it means you care.
It’s unnerving to think that you or someone close could need to be hospitalized, but it’s equally distressing not to have a plan. That’s why this week we’re focusing on what you can do. You’ll find a podcast on how to prepare for the unexpected, as well as an article about talking to your family about your plans.
Communicating helps ensure that loved ones understand your wishes. How do you do that in these no-contact times? Review ways to stay connected—not just about money and estate plans, but also to keep family and friend ties strong too.
Planning may also include what everyday life may look like post-pandemic. I hope you were able to listen in to Dr. Sanjay Gupta—neurosurgeon and CNN chief medical correspondent—discuss this topic. If you missed it, a webcast replay is now available at our COVID-19 center.
See how you compare with the results from last week’s family money survey. Don’t worry if you feel behind. Remember our financial consultants are here to help.
As always, we’re wishing health and safety to you and your loved ones.
Investment return and principal value of security investments will fluctuate. The value at the time of redemption may be more or less than the original cost. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Diversification does not assure a profit nor does it protect against loss of principal.
The opinions expressed are those of American Century Investments (or the portfolio manager) and are no guarantee of the future performance of any American Century Investments' portfolio. This material has been prepared for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal or tax advice.
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