How Can I Gauge My Risk Tolerance?

ASK A FINANCIAL PLANNER

All investments come with some level of risk, and if you’re planning to invest your money, it’s important to be aware of how much volatility you can endure. Consider the following factors:

Personality: Are you comfortable putting a portion of your hard-earned dollars at risk in a particular investment? It might be easy to tolerate a high-risk investment when it is generating double-digit returns, but consider whether you’ll feel the same way if the market takes a downward turn with your investment leading the way.

Time horizon: The sooner you may need to use your investment dollars, the lower your risk tolerance. For example, for money you plan to use to make a down payment on a house in 2 years, your risk tolerance is lower than if you’re investing for retirement in 20 years. If you can keep your money invested for a long period of time, you may be able to ride out any downturns in the market (though time alone is no guarantee of higher returns).

Capacity for risk: How  much can you afford to lose? In general, the more resources or assets to fall back on, the higher your risk tolerance.

Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Copyright 2019.

SESLOC Wealth Management is provided through our relationship with CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (CFS)* an Independent Broker-Dealer and SEC Registered Advisor formed for the express purpose of serving Credit Union member' investment and financial planning needs.
*Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. ("CFS"), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of the credit union, and may involve investment risk including potential loss of principal. Investment Representatives are registered through CFS. SESLOC has contracted with CFS to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members. CFS and its representatives do not provide tax advice. For specific tax advice, please consult a qualified tax professional.