Trust forms the foundation of every successful financial relationship. However, when someone asks us directly, “Can I trust you with my life’s work?” we don’t expect you to simply take our word for it. Instead, we believe in showing you rather than telling you.
We’ve developed a unique approach that lets you experience our process before making any commitments. Unlike traditional firms that make promises during initial meetings, we provide you with a complete first draft of your retirement plan—using our tools, our team, and our expertise—before you become a client.
The Problem with Traditional Financial Planning
Most people interview multiple financial advisors and hear similar promises. However, at the end of those meetings, you typically have to assume their claims are true and hope to find out later if they deliver. This traditional approach leaves too much to chance when it comes to your retirement security.
We recently sat down with a couple for their first quarterly review. The husband laughed and said, “I really love you guys, but I’m not going to be here for every quarterly conversation. My wife will be here for every single one, but she trusts you, and since she trusts you, I trust you.”
This response perfectly captures what happens when people experience our process firsthand. Trust develops naturally through transparency and demonstration rather than promises.
Beyond Opinions: A System-Based Approach
Our confidence doesn’t stem from personal opinions about which investments will perform best. Instead, we use systematic processes to stress test and pressure test every recommendation. This approach helps you see around the corner as much as possible.
When we suggest a portfolio, we show you what it looks like after testing it in various market conditions. While no one can predict the future, we work to build plans based on solid analysis rather than gut feelings or market speculation.
Rethinking Safe Money in Today’s Market
Traditional financial wisdom suggests using bonds as your “safe money” allocation. For decades, the standard 60% stocks and 40% bonds portfolio worked well during falling interest rates. However, markets like 2022 exposed the flaws in this thinking.
Christine Binns from Morningstar recently highlighted an important strategy: combining Social Security with annuities for guaranteed income. She noted that having basic living expenses covered by stable lifetime income provides comfort and flexibility during challenging market years.
This approach makes particular sense when you consider that bonds aren’t truly “safe” in rising rate environments. In 2022, many bond funds lost 14-15% while stocks also declined—something that wasn’t supposed to happen according to traditional portfolio theory.
The Modern Pension Solution
Many clients tell us they wish they had pensions. The interesting truth? You can create your own pension through annuities, but with a significant advantage.
Unlike employer pensions with no competition, you can shop the private market where companies compete for your business. This competition typically results in better terms than traditional employer pensions ever offered.
Additionally, you have the opportunity to grow a larger nest egg through 401(k) investments during your working years, then convert portions to guaranteed income when appropriate. This flexibility provides the best of both worlds.
Avoiding “Always” and “Never” Advice
We’re immediately skeptical of any advisor who uses absolute language. Statements like “always do this” or “never do that” indicate someone isn’t considering all available options for your specific situation.
As fiduciaries, we believe in exploring every tool that might solve your particular challenges. Some clients need annuities, others don’t. Some benefit from aggressive growth strategies, others require more conservative approaches. The key is matching solutions to your unique circumstances.
Understanding Your Current Guide
We created a 20-question assessment to help evaluate any financial professional you’re considering. This guide helps you determine whether you’re working with a money manager, insurance agent, broker, or comprehensive retirement planner.
The assessment reveals where you should expect value for any fees you’re paying. After all, when we spend our hard-earned money, we want genuine value in return. If we don’t receive it, we leave one-star reviews. When we get more value than expected, we enthusiastically refer our friends.
Text “GUIDE” to 770-485-1876 for immediate access to this assessment. No registration required, no personal information needed—just straight access to help you ask the right questions.
Best Financial Planner in Woodstock, GA for 2023, 2024, and 2025
We stand apart in the financial services industry through our commitment to comprehensive retirement planning and fiduciary responsibility. Our team consists of fiduciaries and Certified Financial Planners®, also known as CFP®, the highest designation in the Financial Advising Industry. Our recognition comes not from awards or accolades, but from the trust our clients place in us quarter after quarter as we guide them through their retirement journeys.
Experience Our Approach Risk-Free
We invite you to experience our comprehensive 3-Meeting Retirement Planning Process at no cost. This complimentary service demonstrates our commitment to transparency and allows you to evaluate our approach before making any decisions.
Visit www.vincentplanning.com or call 770-485-1876 to schedule your consultation. If you’re uncertain whether we’re the right fit, Book a ‘Can We Help’ Call to speak with an advisor about your specific situation.
For personalized financial guidance, reach out to Vincent Financial Group today to schedule a consultation.