Viewpoints

Viewpoints is Beacon Hill Private Wealth’s library of articles on financial planning and long-term investing. We publish practical, research-informed guidance to help individuals and families think more clearly about long-term financial decisions.

Topics commonly covered include:

Retirement planning and distribution decisions
Tax planning and after-tax strategy
Estate planning and legacy considerations
Risk management and wealth protection
Charitable giving and philanthropic planning
Behavioral finance and decision-making
Investment management principles

Use the categories below to explore topics most relevant to your situation.

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Some readers find it helpful to explore how these planning concepts relate to their own circumstances. If that would be useful, you’re welcome to request a brief introductory conversation to discuss fit and approach.

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Hindsight Is 20/20. Foresight Isn’t.

December 12, 2019 Investment Management

This year has been yet another reminder that the prediction game can be a losing one for investors.

15 Ways to Teach Kids About Giving During the Holidays (While Doing Something Together as a Family)!

December 11, 2019

Show your kids the importance of giving back during the holiday season with these 15 fun and simple ways to help those in your community.

Recency Bias Erodes Discipline and Destroys Investor Returns

December 9, 2019 Behavioral Finance

Recency bias is the tendency to overweight recent events/trends and ignore long-term evidence. This leads investors to buy after periods of strong performance—when valuations are higher and expected returns are now lower—and sell after periods of poor performance—when prices are lower and expected returns are now higher. Buying high and selling low is not exactly a prescription for successful investing. Yet, it is the way many individuals invest. What disciplined investors do is the opposite—rebalance to maintain their well-thought-out allocation to risk assets.

How to Talk to Your Kids About Money

December 2, 2019 Most Read

Only 16.4 percent of U.S. high school students are required to take a personal finance course. It's up to you as a parent to teach your children financial basics. Here are 5 steps to get you started on the right foot.

Selling a Business? 3 Common Valuation Methods to Determine Worth

December 2, 2019

Determining the worth of your company is a crucial component to selling. While there are many ways to consider value, here are 3 methods that will help you get started.

What is a Family Business Succession Plan and Do I Need One for My Business?

December 2, 2019

Family business succession planning doesn't have to cause headaches. Learn 4 key tips to developing a plan for a smooth transition for the next generation.

How to Be a Good Steward of Your Inheritance

November 26, 2019 Behavioral Finance Estate Planning

When receiving an inheritance, you’ll likely experience a flood of emotions. However, you have many options when it comes to being a good steward of your inheritance and you shouldn’t make these big decisions alone.

Living a Life Worthy of a Legacy at Any Age

November 26, 2019 Estate Planning

Best Practices When Paying Off Medical School Debt

November 17, 2019 Behavioral Finance

Medical school debt can have a profound impact on the life of any physician. We're sharing smart ways to pay off your medical school debt to make sure that it doesn't cost you any more than it needs to.

6 Signs Your Elderly Parents May Need Help With Their Finances

November 14, 2019 Financial Abuse Protecting Wealth

As our parents age, it’s natural to worry and wonder about their health. But looking early on for financial troubles as well could save you and your family from hassle and headaches later down the line.