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.

Want to discuss your situation?

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.

Learn More

What is FIRE Retirement and Should You Consider It?

November 1, 2019 Retirement Planning

If you have the discipline and cash flow to save more than half of your income each month to put toward an early retirement, FIRE might work for you.

7 Financial Tips to Avoid Leaving Money on the Table

October 31, 2019 Retirement Planning Tax Planning

The holiday season is approaching, and while our focus may soon turn to turkey, travel and the New Year, we need to make sure we don’t neglect our finances before the ball drops. Below are seven financial planning opportunities that every investor should consider before year-end.

The Most Important Insurance You May Not Have

October 30, 2019 Protecting Wealth Risk Management

The 1969 Woody Allen film, Take the Money and Run, is one of my personal favorites. The most memorable scene is when Allen is captured after escaping from prison and his punishment is solitary confinement with an insurance salesman. Not many people are interested in discussing their need for insurance. It’s certainly not an exciting topic (nor is investing for some). For many, discussing mortality and disability risks are unpleasant subjects. In addition, most people don’t like being “sold” something. There are so many different types of insurance (and from many different companies), that many are left wondering, “Do I really need this? Is it worth the expense? Am I wasting my money?”

How Private Equity Destroys Investors’ Wealth

October 29, 2019 Investment Management

Private equity investing has created enormous wealth for those fortunate to be the general partners of a fund. But for regular investors – the limited partners – recent studies show that when properly adjusted for risks, PE returns lag those of the less risky public markets. Moreover, there is little evidence that investors can identify, in advance, the very few PE funds that will outperform.

Common Financial Scams that Target Retirees and How to Spot Them

October 24, 2019 Financial Abuse

As a retiree, or an older individual, you may find yourself at risk for encountering financial scams. Here are a few ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.

How to Maximize Social Security Spousal Benefits

October 22, 2019 Retirement Planning

There are a number of details involved when it comes to maximizing your Social Security benefits. If you're married, it's important to consider your options for both you and your partner.

Finances for Freshman: How to Prepare Your Kids for Financial Responsibility When Entering College

October 14, 2019 Behavioral Finance Education Planning

As your child heads off to college, set some time aside to help your kid understand the financial implications their first step into freedom and independence will likely have.

The Unique Retirement Issues Facing Women

October 11, 2019 Retirement Planning Risk Management

Women face at least 12 unique challenges from financial and life circumstances related to long-term retirement planning. Addressing these can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. But, only by understanding the issues can you develop strategies that will provide the greatest chance of achieving your clients’ goals. Specifically, women:

Designing Your Spend-Down Strategy

October 4, 2019 Retirement Planning Most Read

Many people think of retirement planning as saving enough money to live the lifestyle they’ve envisioned and do the things they’ve planned. But that’s only part of having a successful retirement. The financial skills and planning you need for this new phase of life are different and often more complicated — and ideally should be implemented before retirement begins. We can help you develop a spend-down strategy to decrease your tax costs and increase your odds of having enough money in retirement.

The True Cost of Being an Art Collector

October 4, 2019 Protecting Wealth Risk Management

From insuring your art collection to storage fees and more we're coaching you through some of the typical costs you can expect to pay as an art collector.