Search found 6914 matches

by staythecourse
Wed May 15, 2019 7:24 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Did you buy the 600+ dip last week ?
Replies: 129
Views: 10717

Re: Did you buy the 600+ dip last week ?

The market dropped 600 points last week? Good thing I visit this site so much as it is the only way I would know what the market was doing. I must say I have hit a point of iInancial Indifference. I don't care if the market is up or down. No surprise that single quality has made me a better investor then anything I have read or even learned on this board.

Go figure not caring is better then caring too much when it comes to investing.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Tue May 14, 2019 7:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I accidentally retired, and need tax advice
Replies: 48
Views: 7406

Re: I accidentally retired, and need tax advice

"Accidentally retired" means I closed up a tech business. Did some real estate. Planned on going back to work in tech, but after having spent a few years with real estate, I realized my skillset was badly dated and I'm about to turn fifty. I might buy and rehab another house at some point, but not now. Trying to make this work as-is. It seems some people can do it. I'm wondering how they structure their finances. I have no debt, and already live very frugally. It's the taxes that are getting me. I think you need to find some work. How much in SS can you expect? How much premium are you going to pay for medicare when you are eligible? Can you free up the cash or even qualify for a mortgage without income for another rental? Can yo...
by staythecourse
Tue May 14, 2019 11:51 am
Forum: Forum Issues and Administration
Topic: For how long will the forum be around?
Replies: 94
Views: 12209

Re: For how long will the forum be around?

If the owners ever tire of this (i don't expect that to happen) or die (that's inevitable), I feel confident that The John C. Bogle Center for Financial Literacy would see to it that it continues for as long as there was a need for it. You can rest easy; it's not going away. Hopefully, your kids, grandkids, great grandkids, and their kids, grandkids and great grandkids will be posting here, all getting and giving help. Thanks for the insight. Not to sound morbid, but has this been written in ink? Or do the owners themselves have it written what happens if the first person dies? Does it go their heirs or that portion get donated to the the Financial Literacy foundation? What if one of the wives decides she would rather sell to some big inve...
by staythecourse
Tue May 14, 2019 9:00 am
Forum: Forum Issues and Administration
Topic: For how long will the forum be around?
Replies: 94
Views: 12209

Re: For how long will the forum be around?

This is a pretty actionable thread...

What is the succession plans on paper for the forum if/ when the owners die? Is there a plan? Even if there isn't a plan to continue the forum it would be great to have a plan to store all the previous posts and have it accessible to those who search for it. Another forum I wanted to access again was shut down and ALL the posts were lost forever. A real shame.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 12, 2019 4:09 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]
Replies: 3353
Views: 888663

Re: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]

james22 wrote: Sun May 12, 2019 12:52 pm
HEDGEFUNDIE wrote: Sat May 11, 2019 10:06 pmOf all the "risks" to the strategy, in my opinion this is the largest one.
Yikes.

It's an interesting strategy, but built on back-testing "its inexactitude is hidden; its wildness lies in wait.”
Agreed. The biggest risk is it going to zero. Don't think anyone taking a chance is not cognizant of that and has limited that downside risk by limiting their networth in the strategy to less then 10% (in most cases).

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 12, 2019 9:29 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Another Warren Buffett S&P 500 Recommendation
Replies: 109
Views: 20222

Re: Another Warren Buffett S&P 500 Recommendation

Does Mr. Buffett believe in risk/ return being correlated? The reason I ask is if it is so obvious a lock on sp500 doing well then shouldn't he expect lower returns going forward?

Just curious.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 12, 2019 8:36 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Compensation negotiation strategy (rocket ship tech)
Replies: 46
Views: 7466

Re: Compensation negotiation strategy (rocket ship tech)

I work for a publicly traded tech company that has been in rocket ship mode. Stock price has increased 5x over the past 12 months. I joined the company 6 months ago. My total annual compensation at the time of hire was $225k. With the recent stock run-up, that figure is now up to $250k. I have also performed exceptionally, with multiple executive stakeholders lauding my work to my management. I am on a very small team. One of my teammates (same level, same background, same responsibilities) joined the company 10 months before me. Assuming she received the same comp package as me upon joining, her total comp is close to $400k by now (and even that is a conservative estimate assuming no raises or more shares, only appreciation of the shares ...
by staythecourse
Sun May 12, 2019 8:31 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]
Replies: 3353
Views: 888663

Re: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]

Is there an investment concept that captures the problem that backward looking scenarios assume you will know the right exit point? I don’t know the proper way to express the thought I have and I’m sure it has already been addressed in language I don’t understand. But while the concern of a wipe out event have been discussed — the psychology of staying the course — what about the psychology of staying the course when things are good? It’s fine to say I will put 5% of my assets into this strategy with the goal of $10 million in 20 years. But getting to $10 million requires staying the course through $2.5 million and $5 million. If this succeeds as intended, don’t you have to know what your tolerance is for staying in when it becomes 25 perc...
by staythecourse
Sun May 12, 2019 8:23 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

In the podcast linked in another thread, Mr. Bernstein discusses only owning EM when it is valued well below developed markets. Now would be one of those times (if that’s part of your strategy). No offense, but does it matter what Dr. Bernstein, Mr. Swedroe, Mr. Ferri, or even Jack Bogle think? It isn't like any of them have some special insight into the market just because they handle large amounts of other folk's money. One aspect of this forum I have never understood is the amount of hero worship that occurs. I LOVE each of the above books, but can't say there opinion on where the market is going is any better then the psychic down the street. The answer is pick an asset allocation (there are DOZENS that are reasonable) that YOU believe...
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 7:27 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

I think it’s just luck of the draw. The S&P500 has had an historical run over the last decade. This is a very good point that is often been overlooked. If I remember correct (from my memory) when looking at rolling returns it isn't like SCV does poor it is just there are times it under performs when the SP500 just shoots the lights out like the 90's or this last decade. According to Paul Merriman, SCV has beaten the S&P 500 in every 20 year period except one. From 1999-2018, SCV outperformed by 2.77%. I agree with Rick and others that if you're going to go in for factors, trend following, etc., you'd better have the conviction to stay the course for a very long time. Correct. I meant short run rolling returns 3, 5, 10 year returns....
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 7:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Growing old without kids or younger caring relatives
Replies: 123
Views: 30782

Re: Re:

I was hoping someone would have already set up something like what I've been thinking about so I wouldn't have to reinvent the wheel, but no one has mentioned it yet, so it probably hasn't happened. I'm thinking about starting a group of local people in similar situations, having it primarily a social group but with the understanding that we are to act as family when one of us needs help. I don't know how hard it would be to set up. It would have to be a small enough group that everyone would know everyone else, yet large enough that there would be enough people with the correct time and talents. I'm not thinking about long-term care, just watching over the people hired to do the jobs needed, and someone to deal with the sudden emergencies...
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 6:51 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

Random Walker wrote: Sat May 11, 2019 6:43 pm I think it’s just luck of the draw. The S&P500 has had an historical run over the last decade.
This is a very good point that is often been overlooked. If I remember correct (from my memory) when looking at rolling returns it isn't like SCV does poor it is just there are times it under performs when the SP500 just shoots the lights out like the 90's or this last decade.

If we KNEW "x" would always do well then their would be no point in diversification, would there be?

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 6:46 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]
Replies: 3353
Views: 888663

Re: HEDGEFUNDIE's excellent adventure [risk parity strategy using 3x leveraged ETFs]

harmoniousmonk wrote: Sat May 11, 2019 5:09 pm Agreed on the fascinating thread.

I am in for much less than 1% but enjoy the volatility and checking how this is doing everyday. It satisfies my urge of my more boring 3 fund portfolio. For that I thank hedgefundie and all the other posters and when I come here i hope this thread has been bumped.
Agreed. It is fun to see the amount of volatility. It is quite an elegant interplay.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 6:42 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

nedsaid, All the talk on the forum over the past 10-years about factors, commodities, reinsurance, and the latest and greatest slice-n-dice "Larry Portfolio" strategy has net-net lost serious money versus a three fund portfolio. His big fund 10-years ago was the CommodityRealReturn Strategy Fund (PCRIX). It has had a -1.5% annualized since he recommended it. Over the same period, the stock market has gone up 200%. BTW, Larry doesn't own this fund anymore. Rick Ferri If one is a passive investor why do you care what ANY fund performance does over any x period of time? The only thing you should care about is cost and does it track it benchmark. That's it. If the fund had -1.5% return when the passive benchmark had a +5% return that...
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 6:21 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: An Advisor Refusing To Sell Investments
Replies: 66
Views: 9590

Re: An Advisor Refusing To Sell Investments

Easy just tell him to email him and tell him if this doesn't happen ASAP that he will report him to the SEC. Get the email for the broker complaints and mention on the email. Tell him he has 48hr. to get it done. If he doesn't do it send the email and cc him on it.

If he wants to pay hard ball don't take it.

No matter what happens write some reviews online on your experience. It will help others to know what they are getting into. When his boss finds those reviews it will be in enough "payback".

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 6:15 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

DaufuskieNate wrote: Sat May 11, 2019 9:48 am
staythecourse wrote: Sat May 11, 2019 9:20 am If you look at Callan's Periodic Table of returns EM it is very obvious... It either is the best or worst performing asset class in most years. Often times going through hot streaks and cold streaks. EM is not for the faint of heart so if you can't handle it best not to participate.

Good luck.
Or...invest in a Total International or Total World fund where the EM exposure is muted by developed markets. Sure, it's a bit of a trick. But if one is inclined to obsess over recent returns of portfolio components, rather than looking at performance of the portfolio as a whole, then perhaps burying the components is better than avoiding them altogether.
Agree.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 9:25 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Why I bet on S&P500
Replies: 51
Views: 4406

Re: Why I bet on S&P500

Maybe you should add the biggest reason... It has destroyed every other equity market the last 10+ years. Can you really say you would be all in on sp500 if it as negative last 10 years? I am never surprised how strong rationalization is with investing.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sat May 11, 2019 9:20 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time
Replies: 60
Views: 5974

Re: Larry Swedroe: Emerging Markets Need Time

If you look at Callan's Periodic Table of returns EM it is very obvious... It either is the best or worst performing asset class in most years. Often times going through hot streaks and cold streaks. EM is not for the faint of heart so if you can't handle it best not to participate.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Fri May 10, 2019 7:25 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: CAPE-based asset allocation strategy?
Replies: 72
Views: 6942

Re: CAPE-based asset allocation strategy?

I think your plan is reasonable. It isn't betting the farm so to speak. I don't think in the end it is going to make much of a diffrence (good or bad) vs. a static asset allocation, but if it helps you "stay the course" go for it. Just STICK WITH IT.

Staying the course of a pretty good plan is more important then having a great plan and not knowing if you can stick with it.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Fri May 10, 2019 7:15 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: 17 of our 18 equity-focused American Funds have delivered index-beating lifetime results.
Replies: 34
Views: 3788

Re: 17 of our 18 equity-focused American Funds have delivered index-beating lifetime results.

SovereignInvestor wrote: Fri May 10, 2019 4:02 pm And the many others that didn't were probably shut down years ago so.there's survivorship bias.
Bingo.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Fri May 10, 2019 5:01 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Vacant Lake Lot. Sell or Hold?
Replies: 54
Views: 4172

Re: Vacant Lake Lot. Sell or Hold?

If you have no intention of moving there I would sell. I would tell the buyer to wait until your contract with the sellers agent expires. I think it is ethical as he/ she did approach you PRIOR to having a sellers agent.

I don't know why you care about comps. You are getting offers based on what the market is willing to give. IF that is the best you can get over all this time then that is the most it is worth. It is like a worker thinking they should make x salary. You are only worth x salary if you can find an employer to offer you that salary otherwise it is just you hoping to get x amount.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Thu May 09, 2019 5:44 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Last Jack Bogle Keynote and Farewell - Bogleheads 2018
Replies: 16
Views: 2756

Re: The Last Jack Bogle Keynote and Farewell - Bogleheads 2018

Much thanks. If he can't be alive forever (no one can) it is great to see we have a access to his wisdom forever.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Thu May 09, 2019 5:37 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Sending $$$ to fiancee to fund solo practice
Replies: 22
Views: 2920

Re: Sending $$$ to fiancee to fund solo practice

First thing is first do you have a contract with each other? Is the equity 50/50? Who is making choices on admin. stuff? Is she going to be okay listening to you if you are the one making business decisions? Personally, I don't like this idea. I started my own solo practice after about 7 years of being with another group. It was a piece of cake with the experience I had and being pretty business savvy. Your wife has no clue how to be a physician if she has never practiced (like the rest of us), no clue how to run a practice, and if you are not an experienced yourself you have no clue. I'm all for learning on the job (that is what every other SBO does it), but just be aware there is going to be some uncompensated stresses based on your relat...
by staythecourse
Thu May 09, 2019 10:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Am I out of line to request a refund for dental work that hasn't been done?
Replies: 43
Views: 4899

Re: Am I out of line to request a refund for dental work that hasn't been done?

What did the dentist say? You seem to be implying he is refusing a refund that you haven't even asked for yet, which makes no sense. The answer is that if they have incurred cost to make the crown it would be fair to pay. If they don't have a cost yet you should get a refund. Some dentists might write off the cost and give you a refund anyway. Good answer. Good luck. It's a good answer but I did ask for a refund as stated in the previous post. They went ahead and charged me anyway. he transaction date of the charge is the same day that I called asking for a refund. Did you actually talk to anyone after the charge to see why they didn't refund? Was it intentional or a miscommunication? The other reason the above was a good answer is did the...
by staythecourse
Thu May 09, 2019 8:25 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: House selling - modern norms
Replies: 36
Views: 6425

Re: House selling - modern norms

Easiest question of the day... Just call Redfin. They will give your parents an eval of what needs to be done, current comps, and, of course, rebates if you use them.

Heck, for elderly parents living far away who haven't bought or sold for years I think the default choice should be Redfin.

Good luck.

p.s. I have no affiliation. I sold our own home myself, but was impressed with their operation.
by staythecourse
Thu May 09, 2019 8:05 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Am I out of line to request a refund for dental work that hasn't been done?
Replies: 43
Views: 4899

Re: Am I out of line to request a refund for dental work that hasn't been done?

dbr wrote: Sun May 05, 2019 9:07 am What did the dentist say? You seem to be implying he is refusing a refund that you haven't even asked for yet, which makes no sense.

The answer is that if they have incurred cost to make the crown it would be fair to pay. If they don't have a cost yet you should get a refund. Some dentists might write off the cost and give you a refund anyway.
Good answer.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Wed May 08, 2019 10:08 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: pre-qualified to get on the list
Replies: 45
Views: 4034

Re: pre-approval to get on the list

What's the problem? Do you not have the assets or income or both WITHOUT selling the house? If you do just get the pre approval. It takes a whole 10 minutes. If you don't then your tough out of luck. I woudl NOT consider selling my house without having another house lined up. This house isn't even built yet. There are SO MANY issues that could come up from their or your side where it may never come to fruition. As I tell everyone do NOT love any house or location until you actually move in. It blurs your thought process. A house is just four walls, ceiling, divided into multiple boxes. That's it. Good luck. These homes I like will be in the $900,000 range. The agent told me you must "pre-qualify" to even get on the list of potent...
by staythecourse
Tue May 07, 2019 4:46 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: pre-qualified to get on the list
Replies: 45
Views: 4034

Re: pre-approval to get on the list

What's the problem? Do you not have the assets or income or both WITHOUT selling the house? If you do just get the pre approval. It takes a whole 10 minutes. If you don't then your tough out of luck. I woudl NOT consider selling my house without having another house lined up. This house isn't even built yet. There are SO MANY issues that could come up from their or your side where it may never come to fruition. As I tell everyone do NOT love any house or location until you actually move in. It blurs your thought process. A house is just four walls, ceiling, divided into multiple boxes. That's it. Good luck. These homes I like will be in the $900,000 range. The agent told me you must "pre-qualify" to even get on the list of potent...
by staythecourse
Tue May 07, 2019 11:13 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: I tried to fire my financial advisor of 12 years today...
Replies: 127
Views: 16999

Re: I tried to fire my financial advisor of 12 years today...

This is what it comes down to... "What are you paying him for?" If it is the allocation then you don't need him for that as you can just buy those on your own and you will be GUARANTEED to do better as you just added 1.5% to the return each year to be compounded going forward. If you are using him for active management because you think he has some special insight into valuation or security selection you need to do some more reading. If you are using him to guide you personal finance outside of asset allocation then ask him or find someone else as a hourly every 6 month financial checkup. If you are using him as an old friend... find a new one. Good luck. p.s. Unlike many on here I don't see having a FA as the devil. You just have...
by staythecourse
Tue May 07, 2019 10:54 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: pre-qualified to get on the list
Replies: 45
Views: 4034

Re: pre-approval to get on the list

What's the problem? Do you not have the assets or income or both WITHOUT selling the house? If you do just get the pre approval. It takes a whole 10 minutes. If you don't then your tough out of luck. I woudl NOT consider selling my house without having another house lined up. This house isn't even built yet. There are SO MANY issues that could come up from their or your side where it may never come to fruition.

As I tell everyone do NOT love any house or location until you actually move in. It blurs your thought process. A house is just four walls, ceiling, divided into multiple boxes. That's it.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Tue May 07, 2019 10:35 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: International Exposure — A Fresh Look at Your Stock Portfolio
Replies: 104
Views: 10772

Re: International Exposure — A Fresh Look at Your Stock Portfolio

Interesting looking at these pics is NOT if one should not have international, but what type of international exposure. If large multinational companies in U.S. or U.K. have so much revenue from outside their borders I would think one should NOT add international large cap along with U.S. large cap. This has always been my feelings. I have 40% in international and the only 2 slices of that is 20% in international mid/ small and EM large. I figure there is more diversification benefit AND currency diversification adding these 2 instead of total international. For those who are 3 funders, as I have said several times on this board, one may consider dropping total international and adding total int. mid/ small instead. Better diversification, ...
by staythecourse
Mon May 06, 2019 5:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: College/life prep for young kids
Replies: 79
Views: 8059

Re: College/life prep for young kids

This summer I'm planning a lot of quality time together. Exploration on the low cost (car trips, local beaches and a couple over nights vs flights and resorts). The memories we make now will last a life time. Thanks again for the input. Bingo. It really does NOT matter what you do with the kids as long as you are doing SOMETHING with the kids. The fact Dad is spending time with them is worth way more then the activity itself. Consider it like a meetup group. It is an activity which really does not matter, but is a platform to spend time together. You could just go to the park everyday and your kids would be happy. It isn't like when they are 20 they are going to remember or care what the exact activity was or the location, but will remembe...
by staythecourse
Sun May 05, 2019 4:11 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: College Tours and Open Houses
Replies: 40
Views: 2999

Re: College Tours and Open Houses

I only have toddlers at the moment, but looking back at my own past I think what is the point? It is like going on a first date. Everyone is putting out the best first impression. Is there much difference between this new dining hall vs. that new gym room?

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 05, 2019 9:49 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What worst case scenario should bonds cover?
Replies: 47
Views: 3152

Re: What worst case scenario should bonds cover?

I have 1 year of cash to cover emergencies and worst case scenario. I'm a physician married to one as well and I own my own practice so job stability is not an issue. I don't really care if the market tanks for another 10+ years as our monthly income covers our expenditures.

For me I get more worried about paying monthly bills (mortgage) then I do about how the market is doing. I have not seen the market move yet that has made be pay attention (including 2008) so I doubt it ever will. Now if I had a job that I could lose and NOT pay my bills from income I would be much more conservative. So I guess it all depends on what you consider anxiety provoking. For me it isn't the market.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 05, 2019 9:43 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: House Hunting Duration: 10 Months Too Long?
Replies: 16
Views: 2232

Re: House Hunting Duration: 10 Months Too Long?

If there is a specific area you want to live then the rate limiting step has NOTHING to do with what you want, but the supply at the time. If that is the case I would start looking NOW and when you find one you like pull the trigger. First time home buyers always make this mistake. When they are ready to buy then they can't find something the like and they either 1. settle on whatever is available at that time or 2. Just never buy until something actually comes up. Either way not ideal.

Also, the supply of houses are down at one of the lowest at 1st quarter. Usually spring is when it starts to heat up as the weather gets better and folks with kids want to move at end of school year before the next school year starts.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Sun May 05, 2019 9:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: College/life prep for young kids
Replies: 79
Views: 8059

Re: College/life prep for young kids

Save, save, save. The FAFSA and CSS are merciless. If you have been responsible, saved for your own retirement, maybe own an income producing rental property or two... then you are Moneybags. They tell you that you are full-pay, no matter how stretched you might be at that moment, or what your regional cost of living is... so the only way to overcome that is to set aside money until it hurts, so when they smile and say that they expect you to pay $74K per year, you can at least pay some or most of it. Cheers Or just make a good example and tell your kids you can only afford x for their tuition early on. It is OKAY to tell have your kids you are not a money bank. Isn't that the point of many of the posts above? To have your kid understand w...
by staythecourse
Sun May 05, 2019 8:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: College/life prep for young kids
Replies: 79
Views: 8059

Re: College/life prep for young kids

Interesting discussions. Of course, there is NO right answer otherwise everyone would just do that and have a successful kid. I personally don't agree with the whole let them figure it out mentality. To be as objective as possible the most successful culture in this country is asian americans. They have the HIGHEST per capita income (by a mile) AND the lowest crime rates so I think they would be a good model to emulate. The parents are SUPER involved at a very early age in pushing their kids to be the best. They don't follow this "Oh just follow Johnny's lead". Folks may or may not agree with their parenting, but there is something to be learned from their methods if you really want to the kids to the best. Those parents are ALWAY...
by staythecourse
Fri May 03, 2019 3:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car lost acceleration
Replies: 111
Views: 8284

Re: Car lost acceleration

We just had a baby and paid $9K out of pocket, I just had two root canals which so far is over $500 and I have another appointment for posts and crowns, and my 5% supposed bonus came in at less then 1%, and no raise, so hoping it isn't the converter or water pump, as money keeps going out the door. Also had a sewage leak right before baby was born so going through insurance to fix and paying some out of pocket costs for things not covered but should be done while they are there, like installing fan in bathroom, electric outlet in bathroom etc. that weren't there before but should have been. Nothing useful to add, but this is the EXACT reason for our less experienced investors on this site it is SO IMPORTANT to have a good EF (not to say th...
by staythecourse
Fri May 03, 2019 3:10 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Company IPO'd. What's Next?
Replies: 37
Views: 5154

Re: Company IPO'd. What's Next?

In the immortal words of the late Harry Browne... Put as few as people between your money and you.

Learn to invest in a three fund. Will take a whole 1-2 hours. That's it. Can't get an easier.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Thu May 02, 2019 1:48 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: “If Some Part Of Your Portfolio Isn’t Performing Poorly, You Are Not Properly Diversified”
Replies: 34
Views: 3332

Re: “If Some Part Of Your Portfolio Isn’t Performing Poorly, You Are Not Properly Diversified”

I believe it was Roger Gibson in "Asset Allocation" who said (paraphrasing): Being diversified is about always being unhappy. You will always hold too many of the losers and not enough of the winners.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Thu May 02, 2019 9:47 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?
Replies: 63
Views: 7902

Re: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?

This is unfortunate to hear. Have you worked at a VA before? Is there any upside to the job in your view even monetary (insurance,pension etc) No, but I have way TOO many folks who have and have left or not for the reasons above. It doesn't mean you shouldn't do it. You just have to have the mindset of okay doing what the "system" tells you to do vs. changing a protocol if you think it is best for your patient and being around some other professional folks who are just there to collect the paycheck. Just know what you are getting into. Maybe it is a different mentality in PT vs. medicine. It is hard as a doc to have random folks tell you what to do and even harder when it ANY top heavy admin. structure. My wife was in corporate m...
by staythecourse
Thu May 02, 2019 8:24 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Too late to start over with nothing?
Replies: 40
Views: 7443

Re: Too late to start over with nothing?

If it isn't too personal how did you run out of savings? The market has been on a TEAR last decade. Did you not estimate costs well? Only reason I ask is this is similar to the biggest fear of most folks on this site that they wake up one day at 65+ and find out the balance is near zero. If this is too personal I do understand and apologize. Good luck. Thanks for asking. It is not personal. I spent my savings on things I did not need, rather the things I wanted. In 2015 I received a 60K in a Workman's compensation settlement, 35K was for my quality of life needs like massage, shower, remodel the house so I could get around. 12K on a Sleep Number bed. ( I had a severe back injury at work.) Eventually, it was down to just mu SSDI check and m...
by staythecourse
Thu May 02, 2019 8:15 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: How to Think About Money--Should be required reading for Bogleheads
Replies: 14
Views: 3862

Re: How to Think About Money--Should be required reading for Bogleheads

No surprise it is written by Mr. Clement. He has ALWAYS been a great writer and down to earth. His previous writing in WSJ (I believe) were excellent. He was a boglehead before there was bogleheads.

If your interested in has other books that I have read. All are excellent. He comes off as a Dad giving you advice. Very simple and direct.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Wed May 01, 2019 6:47 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Too late to start over with nothing?
Replies: 40
Views: 7443

Re: Too late to start over with nothing?

If it isn't too personal how did you run out of savings? The market has been on a TEAR last decade. Did you not estimate costs well? Only reason I ask is this is similar to the biggest fear of most folks on this site that they wake up one day at 65+ and find out the balance is near zero.

If this is too personal I do understand and apologize.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Wed May 01, 2019 6:45 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Too late to start over with nothing?
Replies: 40
Views: 7443

Re: Too late to start over with nothing?

In this situation I would NOT be thinking about investing. Investing is all about compounding and $100 a month is not going to move the needle much starting at 65. My advice if you are positive in the house equity then sell it downsize now. The freed up money use to buy a SPIA.

I would look at retiring in a LCOL area where the $$ well last longer.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Tue Apr 30, 2019 2:59 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?
Replies: 63
Views: 7902

Re: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?

o Are you sure you would be able to stay in this job (or want to) for 20 or 30 years? That actually is not a joke. Usually VA and county jobs are chock full of the 2 extremes in age. The young before they realize the care they give is terrible and decide to move on and the old who stay just for the pension. Like an institutionalized system it takes a certain type of personality to last, i.e. not really care about giving the best care possible or not care what goes around you and just clock in and out. Good luck. This is unfortunate to hear. Have you worked at a VA before? Is there any upside to the job in your view even monetary (insurance,pension etc) No, but I have way TOO many folks who have and have left or not for the reasons above. I...
by staythecourse
Tue Apr 30, 2019 12:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: out of network emergency visits. Huge bill!!!
Replies: 156
Views: 16146

Re: out of network emergency visits. Huge bill!!!

I don't see what the issue is? You knew you were OON and chose to go there. It was NOT an emergency it was an elective decision. If the drive was too far why didn't you just get a taxi or uber to your in network ER.

A kidney stone (yes I know how painful) is not an emergency. That is the truth. If you are in the ER and you have an heart attack, stroke, and a cerebral hemorrhage you are going to get triaged anytime sooner then them. The reason? Those are TRUE emergencies.

I am sorry this happened, but you chose to go there knowing IN ADVANCE you were going to get a big bill. So what is the surprise. I think in the end folks just like to complain about paying for healthcare.

Good luck.
by staythecourse
Tue Apr 30, 2019 12:38 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What are the cons of always being a one parent working household?
Replies: 134
Views: 11075

Re: What are the cons of always being a one parent working household?

This entire thread is a good example of the breakdown in civility that the internet enables. Imagine looking your SAHM friend in the eye and telling her that you think she sets a poor example for her daughters, or that your working mom neighbor isn't really raising her own children. My best friend is a physician and I'm a SAHM, we respect each other's decisions and are both happy in our choices. I imagine most people on this board have friends and family that have made decisions that they would not of, and they respect them anyway. The OP asked about the financial implications of having a long term non-working spouse, I think those have been well covered. Agreed. I am not a PC type of person so that is not meant as a PC answer. The reality...
by staythecourse
Tue Apr 30, 2019 9:54 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Justifying Home Bias in your Portfolio
Replies: 97
Views: 8273

Re: Justifying Home Bias in your Portfolio

100% US. Not home bias - I would do the same if I lived in another country. My money goes where folks like Elon Musk, Sergey Brin, Jensen Huang, etc. emigrate. Once they start going to Europe, Japan, etc. instead, I will start reconsidering. I don't expect it to happen in my limited remaining lifetime. But then you are saying it is a sure thing which means the returns should be lower? Less ex ante return for less risk. So are you in 100% U.S. of lower returns or you just don't believe in anything close to EMH? Good luck. What does the creation of major new companies and industries have to do with the EMH? Future companies aren't priced into the existing companies by the EMH. The idea of thinking it is so obvious that the BEST new company s...
by staythecourse
Tue Apr 30, 2019 9:49 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?
Replies: 63
Views: 7902

Re: In this case, should I be 100% stocks?

Are you sure you would be able to stay in this job (or want to) for 20 or 30 years? That actually is not a joke. Usually VA and county jobs are chock full of the 2 extremes in age. The young before they realize the care they give is terrible and decide to move on and the old who stay just for the pension. Like an institutionalized system it takes a certain type of personality to last, i.e. not really care about giving the best care possible or not care what goes around you and just clock in and out. Good luck. This is unfortunate to hear. Have you worked at a VA before? Is there any upside to the job in your view even monetary (insurance,pension etc) No, but I have way TOO many folks who have and have left or not for the reasons above. It ...