Most investors would love to find the Holy Grail of investing – an investment that provides great returns with very little (or no) risk. Many investors consciously acknowledge that such an investment doesn’t exist. But we may still be attracted to that investment because of how badly we wish it would exist. And sometimes hope and desire, unconsciously, overrule logic and rationality.

A Recent Example

A few years ago, a mutual fund was created specifically for investors who were uncomfortable with volatility. The fund marketed itself as one that would “harness volatility” and “make volatility your asset.” It also claimed to be uncorrelated to traditional stocks and attempt to pursue both capital preservation and growth. Sounds like a real winner!

As you can imagine, money poured into this investment. It was marketed as the perfect investment for those concerned about volatility. It did well for a while, but just a single week of increased volatility blew the entire fund up. All the money was lost in less than one week! Ironically, volatility, the event the fund was going to “harness,” caused the fund to blow up.

Looking Forward

As investor concerns grow, we can expect that someone will create an investment product or strategy to “solve” the concern. Based on current headlines, we could see investments that claim to prosper during periods of inflation, stagflation, or “overextended” markets. No matter the concern of the day, we can reasonably assume the marketing will be very good – an emotional appeal to alleviate our concerns.

Our emotions and unconscious desires often inhibit skepticism and reasoning. Acting on emotions is the natural first response for many of us. It’s just the way we are hardwired. Thinking logically takes effort. That is why you have us. Together, we can ensure that your investment decisions are free from emotion, unconscious influences, and in line with your plan.

If you’re considering working with us here at Mosaic, we invite you to learn more about who we serve and how we help them. You can also contact us with any questions you have.

By Anthony C. Williams, CWS, ChFC, MRFC, CLU | Investment Advisor Representative | President & Founding Partner of Mosaic Financial Associates & Orthopaedist Advisory Group | Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and a Registered Investment Advisor.  Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

©2022 The Behavioral Finance Network. Used with permission.

Investments in securities do not offer a fix rate of return. Principal, yield and/or share price will fluctuate with changes in market conditions and, when sold or redeemed, you may receive more or less than originally invested. No system or financial planning strategy can guarantee future results.

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