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Happy Sunday! Here’s what we’re covering in today’s Clark Smart Investing newsletter:
8 investing myths that could be costing you money
7 ways to invest in real estate
Does everyone need a will?
Q&A with Wes Moss: I’ve been hearing a lot about ETFs paying 25% to 40% dividends through options trading, but since this seems too good to be true, can you explain how these funds actually work and what risks are involved?
💵 8 Investing Myths That Could Be Costing You Money
Investing mistakes don’t always come from taking too much risk. Sometimes they come from ideas that sound perfectly reasonable.
Wait for a better time to invest. Keep money in cash because it’s safe. Own a bunch of funds so you’re diversified. Move mostly out of stocks when retirement gets close.
Each of those ideas has some logic behind it. But taken too far, they can quietly hurt your long-term results.
Here are 8 common investing traps that could be quietly costing you money — and how to fix your strategy before it’s too late
📚 Recommended Reading
Think you need millions in the bank to start investing in real estate? Think again! From completely passive options like low-cost ETFs to hands-on strategies like house hacking, here are 7 ways to build real estate wealth — no matter your budget. Read more.
Creating a will is one of those tasks we all put off, but leaving it undone can create a massive headache for the people you love most. From simple DIY online options to knowing when you need a lawyer, here is everything you need to know about setting up a proper estate plan. Read more.
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Retirement readiness isn’t just about reaching a certain net worth. Your spending, Social Security, pension income, investments, and other resources all work together. Asking four key questions may help you get a clearer picture of whether you’re financially prepared.
💬 Ask an Advisor
✅ Poll: What’s Your Take?
Every week, we'll ask a new question to get your take on the latest financial trends and topics.
How much stock exposure do you plan to keep in retirement?
Last Week’s Poll Results
We asked: “Looking back, which do you wish you had done more of?” Here’s how you answered:
Saved and invested - (29%)
Spent on experiences - (15%)
I’m happy with the balance I chose - (56%)
💸 Money Tip of the Week
Try a store-brand grocery product: Looking to trim your weekly grocery bill without sacrificing quality? Make this the week you swap out just one name-brand item for its store-brand equivalent. Pick one item on your standard shopping list — whether it’s Kirkland, Great Value, or more — and give it a test drive. If you can’t taste or tell the difference, you’ve just unlocked an effortless, ongoing discount on your regular routine!
☎ Need Money Help?
The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.
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This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. Any company names shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.
