Our Investment Philosophy

At Niehaus Financial Services, each client’s circumstances are unique. Therefore, the guidance we provide is specific to each client’s situation. Still, our underlying investment philosophy influences our approach with all clients. The general principles that we use to determine our investment recommendations are listed below.

We advocate:

Goal-Oriented, Purposeful Asset Allocation Decisions

• Consider time horizon, risk tolerance, and necessary rate of return
• Follow research-based models as a guide 
• When applicable, sell what is in favor to generate income

Diversifying Your Investments

• Own bonds and fixed investments (savings & CDs, or similar) designed for short-term safety and stability
• Own stocks for long-term growth potential
• Use alternative investments when appropriate relative to core investment vehicles

Professional Investment Management

• Prefer long-tenured, successful money managers, with an understandable approach
• Limit individual stock exposure
• Measure investment performance over multi-year periods

Flexibility in Your Investment Plan

• Establish an emergency fund for unanticipated needs
• Make conservative assumptions about inflation, rate of return, income need, and savings rate
• Allow for changes to investments that help minimize tax costs and investment expenses

Framework for Investment Models: 

The mix of stocks, bonds, and alternative investments that we recommend for clients  (their portfolio's asset allocation) depends on their return expectations as well as risk tolerance.  We suggest a strategic model that seems to align with their preferences.  Then we may make tactical adjustments (i.e. overweights, underweights, and special additions) based on a multi-year investment outlook.