3 Critical Questions Every Investor Should Ask

Feb 24

Financial jargon can be overwhelming, but making smart investment decisions doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re preparing for retirement or growing your portfolio, here are three key questions to ask your financial advisor:

1. What’s My Asset Allocation?

Your mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets is crucial to long-term success. Research shows asset allocation explains 90% of your returns’ variability. Adjusting this mix to your age and risk tolerance is essential for a secure retirement.

2. What Are My Total Fees?

Fees, even small ones, can erode your portfolio over time. Always ask for a breakdown of all fees—advisor fees, mutual fund costs, and hidden charges. Keeping your total fees under 1.4% ensures more of your money works for you.

3. What’s My Portfolio’s Performance?

Review your portfolio annually, focusing on overall performance, not short-term fluctuations. Regular reviews help you adjust savings or spending, especially important as you near retirement.

At Retire With Swan, we simplify financial planning and help you understand the fundamentals, so you can confidently plan your future.

”To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.’”

Matthew 25: 29

Christopher Swan, CFP®, MBA

In 2010, I started my career in financial services.

Making phone calls for independent advisors in Austin, TX, I quickly found myself drawn to the work.

By 2014, I was a licensed financial advisor, learning the ropes at firms like Edward Jones, Merrill Lynch, and Charles Schwab.

Over the years, I helped people at every stage of life:

Those just starting out.

Those at the end of their journey, focused on legacy.

And everyone in between.

Through it all, I prayed.

Prayed for God to guide me toward the most purposeful work I could do.

Eventually, it became clear—

My biggest impact would be helping people transition into retirement.

By creating secure, reliable plans, I could help people:

Feel confident.

Transition comfortably.

And focus on what matters most: faith, family, fitness, fun, and fulfillment.

That’s why I founded Retire With Swan.

We don’t just focus on numbers.

We focus on people.

To make the retirement transition easier, faster, and more transformational,

I crafted the Swan Song System and GRACE Framework.

These systems simplify the complexities of retirement planning.

They help you clarify your goals, protect your income, and build a roadmap to peace of mind.

If you’re planning your transition into retirement, I’d love to help.

And remember:

It’s never too late—or too early—to better plan your exit.

https://www.retirewithswan.com

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