Investment Read Time: 2 min

Risk Perspective

Risk is a factor in any investment decision that you make. Your tolerance for risk is something that you will want to consider when you make decisions alongside your trusted financial professional. Your risk tolerance is balanced against your time horizon, meaning the time between now and when you anticipate needing your money.

But is it possible to avoid a loss? No, not completely, but you can take steps to manage that risk when investing. This is where conversations about your risk tolerance are critical.

What would you rather have, $500 right now or a 50% chance at $2,000? Many people go for the $2,000 and rightfully so. Since you have a 50/50 chance, a decision tree shows the $2,000 answer carries a potential value of $1,000.

But let’s add a few zeros and see if that changes your perspective.

What would you rather have, $50,000 right now or a 50% chance at $200,000? The decision tree says the opportunity to win $200,000 has the highest potential value. But in reality, many people second-guess that decision because $50,000 is a lot of money.

Remember, there is no correct answer to these questions. They simply help you better understand the concept of risk.

Investment risk can be managed, but it can’t be eliminated entirely. All investments carry some level of risk. And in general, the greater the risk an investment carries, the higher its potential return.

Risk happens, but don’t let it get in the way of your dreams. Ultimately, these concerns should only serve to inform you and the questions that you ask the financial professional you are working with. The conversation should include your questions about the risks for each strategy presented as well as questions from your professional about the investment goals you want and the aspirations you hope to realize.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

Avoiding Cognitive Decline

Avoiding Cognitive Decline

Try these activities to keep your brain sharp.

What’s Your Investment IQ?

What’s Your Investment IQ?

You make decisions for your portfolio, but how much do you really know about the products you buy? Try this quiz

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Social Security: The 64,000 Dollar Question

One of the most common questions people ask about Social Security is when they should start taking benefits.

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

What Is a Roth 401(k)?

Roth 401(k) plans combine features of traditional 401(k) plans with those of a Roth IRA.

View all articles

Capital Gains Tax Estimator

Use this calculator to estimate your capital gains tax.

Annuity Comparison

This calculator compares a hypothetical fixed annuity with an account where the interest is taxed each year.

Contributing to an IRA?

Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.

View all calculators

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

View all presentations

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

An Arm and a Leg

A visit to the hospital can be painful, for both your body and your wallet. Don’t let it be more painful than it has to be.

Surprises

Making the most of surprises is a great reason to work with us.

View all videos