#586 - Retirement Basics - Asset Allocation

In this episode, we break down the essentials of asset allocation and time management in retirement planning. Join us as we explore why it's crucial to focus on the basics rather than getting lost in market predictions and investment products. We also share insightful listener questions and another entry from my grandfather's World War II journal. Tune in to learn how to rock your retirement!

OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN

(00:00) This week we continue talking about the basics with asset allocation.
(02:00) Time is your most precious resource.
(03:36) Retirement planning is a means to an end.
(05:45) We don’t want to waste time on trying to predict the future but on more important things like spending time on and in your life.
(06:15) Spend time on the basic building blocks of retirement planning.
(07:05) How does asset allocation fit into retirement planning?
(09:10) Inflation is the natural increase in the cost of living over time.
(13:52) What is asset allocation?
(16:10) Part of asset allocation is a concept called diversification.
(18:48) What is asset allocation best used for?
(21:50) Two of the biggest determinants of where your asset allocation should be are your psychological preference and your time horizon.

LISTENER QUESTIONS

(24:13) Steve asks whether they should use a single vendor for all their accounts or diversify where they have their money housed in terms of investment firms.
(26:29) The next question comes from Nick related to asset allocation.
(32:18) Question from an RRC member about Vanguard offering a direct conversion.
(35:48) Audio question from Leah about using IRA contributions to start building out a bond ladder or a shorter term allocation.
(39:50) Audio question from Patty who recently retired and needs to decide what to do with her 401k assets and how to choose an advisor.