Our Investment Approach

The first step in Berard Financial Groups investment approach is to determine an appropriate asset allocation, which is an outgrowth of your financial security plan. The asset allocation is generally implemented through the purchase of mutual funds. The following are some of the major features of the investment approach.

Asset class investment strategy.  This strategy utilizes a variety of no-load index funds. Index funds are mutual funds that try to match a particular sector of the stock or bond markets (minus expenses), rather than trying to beat the market. They offer maximum diversification within a particular market segment. Because available evidence overwhelmingly shows that there is little advantage in attempting to either time markets or, the use of index funds is the most effective strategy for superior returns over time.

 A disciplined approach. There are no attempts to forecast market movements. Clients should expect to remain fully invested in their asset allocation at all times.

Tax-management. This is achieved by using tax-managed funds and other strategies for taxable accounts to minimize the amount of taxes you pay each year. However, at some point you will pay taxes on most investments, usually when you sell – this cannot be avoided.

Broad diversification. Portfolios may include the stocks (or bonds) of different size companies, different industries, different countries, etc.

Rebalancing.  Portfolios may be rebalanced periodically to maintain the original risk-reward target for the investment plan. Because rebalancing enforces a buy low, sell high approach, it results in a potential positive performance gain over time.

Minimize costs.  All investing generates costs. Every attempt is made to minimize costs whenever possible.

Risk reduction.  All investment strategies have certain risks that are borne by the investor. While this investment approach strives to reduce risks, there is no way to eliminate them.

 

 

 

**Make your investment decision wisely.  Important information about mutual funds is found is the funds' simplified prospectus.  Please read this carefully before investing.  Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments.  Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.  Unit values and investment returns will fluctuate.