Paragon Perspectives: Reviewing Your Investment Portfolio
Your investment portfolio is like a financial garden—it needs regular weeding, watering, and the occasional pep talk to bloom. As we dive into 2025, it’s the perfect time to give your investments a once-over, make sure they’re aligned with your goals, and pluck out anything that’s not pulling its weight. Whether you’re a newbie investor or someone who checks their portfolio more often than their Instagram, this guide has you covered.
Why Reviewing Your Portfolio Matters
Life changes, and so does the financial world. Reviewing your portfolio is like checking your GPS—are you still heading in the right direction, or have you accidentally veered into “unnecessary risk” territory?
Ask yourself:
- Did you have a major life event? A job change, new baby, or impulsive decision to buy a camper van?
- Are you nearing a big milestone like retirement or finally buying that dream beach house?
- Have markets gone haywire (again)?
Think of a portfolio check-up as your yearly “financial oil change”—it keeps everything running smoothly so you can pursue your goals without a breakdown.
How Often Should You Review Your Investments?
The general rule? Once a year. But, if life or markets decide to throw a curveball—say, a market dip that makes your stomach flip or a big life event—it’s time for an earlier check-in.
Pro tip: Tie your portfolio review to something memorable. Like New Year’s resolutions or the first time you forget to write “2024” on a check.
What to Look for in Your Portfolio Review
- Asset Allocation:
Your mix of stocks, bonds, and other investments should match your goals and risk tolerance. If you planned for a 60/40 split but it’s drifted to 70/30, it’s time to rebalance—because nothing screams “financial rebel” like taking control of your allocations. - Performance:
Are your investments behaving? If you’re behind on your goals, it might be time for a pep talk (or an adjustment). If you’re ahead, maybe you can ease up on the risk and enjoy a few extra “celebration coffees.” - Diversification:
Are you putting all your eggs in one basket? Spread those investments out! Across sectors, industries, regions—anywhere you won’t be tempted to peek at them daily. - Fees:
Don’t let sneaky fees nibble away at your returns like termites in a woodpile. Check those expense ratios, transaction costs, and advisor fees to make sure they’re earning their keep. - Tax Efficiency:
Saving on taxes is like finding money under the couch cushions—except way better. Consider strategies like tax-loss harvesting or contributing to tax-advantaged accounts to keep Uncle Sam from grabbing more than his fair share.
Make 2025 Your Most Successful Year Yet
Think of your portfolio as a financial power tool—it’s incredibly effective when you use it right. By taking the time to review it, rebalance it, and make any needed tweaks, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success.
At Paragon Wealth Management, we make portfolio reviews simple, stress-free, and maybe even a little fun (yes, really). Whether you’re saving for retirement, growing your wealth, or gearing up for your next big milestone, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us today for a portfolio review or schedule a consultation. Let’s make 2025 the year you feel like a financial genius!
About Charles
Charles McNamara, III (Charlie), is a Founding Partner, Financial Advisor, and President at Paragon Wealth Management, a financial services firm based in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, dedicated to professionally supporting, educating, and providing informed direction to each and every client. Charlie’s passion for working with clients one-on-one to find specialized solutions to pursue their financial goals drives the firm’s client-focused mission and continued success. He values the confidence clients have in him to always keep their best interests in mind.
A veteran of the financial services industry since 2000, Charlie brings an extraordinary level of knowledge and experience to the financial field. After obtaining a business finance degree from Delaware Valley University, he began his career as a financial advisor with Prudential Financial in 2001, and was promoted to management in only three years due to his hard work and dedication. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for helping people solve problems, he launched his own practice in 2007.
When he’s not at work, Charlie spends time with his wife, Lisa (co-owner of local salon Moxie), daughter, Carissa, and their two dogs and cat. He enjoys weightlifting, running, golfing, fishing, and giving back to the community through his church, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and local organizations, such as the Travis Manion Foundation. To learn more about Charles, connect with him on LinkedIn.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All investing involves risk including loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. Rebalancing a portfolio may cause investors to incur tax liabilities and/or transaction costs and does not assure a profit or protect against a loss.
There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Any securities mentioned here are for informational purposes only and are not recommendations to buy or sell any security.
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Great Valley Advisor Group, a Registered Investment Advisor. Paragon Wealth Management and Great Valley Advisor Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.
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