Stacy Bush | Valdosta Today Financial Contributor

Our column, “The Bush Wealth Advantage” is our way of giving back to the community with all sorts of insights, relevant news, and practical wealth planning strategies.

Four Really Good Reasons to Invest

Over half of Americans do not own any stocks, or stock-related investments, such as mutual funds, according to Bankrate’s Money Pulse survey.1

Individuals may cite different reasons for not investing, but with important long-term financial goals, such as retirement, in the balance, the reasons may not be good enough.

Why Invest?

• Make Money on Your Money – You might not have a hundred million dollars to invest, but that doesn’t mean your money can’t share in the same opportunities available to others. You work hard for your money; make sure your money works hard for you.
• Achieve Self-Determination and Independence – When you build wealth, you may be in a better position to pursue the lifestyle you want. Your life can become one of possibilities rather than one of limitations.
• Leave a Legacy to Your Heirs – The wealth you pass can have a profound impact on the next generation, providing educational opportunities, the capital to start a business, or financial support to your grandchildren.
• Support Causes Important to You – Wealth can be an important tool for impacting the world in a meaningful way. So, whether your passion is environmental, the arts, or human welfare, you can use your wealth to effect positive changes in your community or around the world.

A Framework for Investing

The decision to invest is an acknowledgement that it comes with certain risks. Not all investments will do well and some may lose money. However, without risk, there would be no opportunity to potentially earn the higher returns that can help you grow your wealth.

To manage investment risk, consider maintaining a broad diversification of your investments that reflects your personal risk tolerance, time horizon, and the nature of your financial goal.2

Because investing can be complicated, consider working with a financial professional to help guide you on your wealth-building journey. Please give our office a call if you have any questions, we’d be happy to help.

Stacy Bush has practiced independent financial advising in the Valdosta area for 15 years. Growing up on a farm in Donalsonville, Georgia, he is keen to the financial needs of South Georgia and North Florida families. Stacy and his wife, Carla, live in Valdosta with their four children. You can submit questions about this article to askbushwealth@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinion voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Bush Wealth Management and LPL Financial are separate entities.

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 2015 FMG Suite. 1. Bankrate Money Pulse Survey, September 2015. 2. Diversification is an approach to help manage investment risk. It does not eliminate the risk of loss if security prices decline.