Risk

In this chapter, we explore the concept of risk tolerance as a personal trait and help you discover the level of risk you’re willing to accept in your investment portfolio. We’ll walk you through the factors you should consider when assessing your risk tolerance, such as financial goals, age, and investment experience.

So, prepare to embark on a journey of self-discovery, and let’s dive into the world of risk tolerance! 

What’s risk tolerance?

Risk tolerance refers to the amount of uncertainty or potential loss you’re willing to accept in pursuit of investment returns. It’s a crucial aspect of investing, as it helps you create a portfolio that aligns with your unique financial goals, comfort levels, and individual circumstances.

For example, some investors might be comfortable taking on higher levels of risk for the potential of greater returns, while others may prefer a more conservative approach, prioritising the preservation of their capital. Understanding your risk tolerance is key to building a successful and sustainable investment strategy.

An entire field of study called “behavioural finance” explores the psychological factors, like risk tolerance, that influence our financial decisions! 🔎

Financial goals

Identifying and understanding your financial goals is a crucial step in assessing your risk tolerance, as it helps you determine the level of risk required to achieve those goals.

For instance, if your primary goal is saving for a down payment on a house 🏠 in five years, you might prioritise a lower-risk investment strategy to preserve your capital. On the other hand, if you’re investing for your retirement that’s 30 years away, you may be more inclined to accept higher levels of risk in pursuit of long-term growth. 📈

Age

As a general rule, younger investors have a longer investment horizon and may be more willing to accept higher levels of risk, as they have more time to recover from potential losses.

For example, a 25-year-old investor may choose to invest heavily in stocks, which typically carry higher risk but also offer greater growth potential. Conversely, a 60-year-old investor nearing retirement may opt for a more conservative portfolio, with a greater allocation towards bonds and other lower-risk investments, to preserve their nest egg. 👵🏼

💡 Some financial experts suggest the “100 minus age” rule for asset allocation. According to this rule, you should subtract your age from 100 to determine the percentage of your portfolio that should be allocated to stocks. The remainder should be invested in bonds or other lower-risk assets.

Investment experience

Investing knowledge and experience can also influence your risk tolerance. Investors with more experience and a deeper understanding of investment concepts may feel more comfortable taking on higher levels of risk, as they have a better grasp of the potential ups and downs of the market.

For instance, a seasoned investor might be more willing to invest in a small-cap stock with the potential for significant growth, while a beginner investor might prefer to stick with well-established, large-cap companies and ETFs that are perceived as more stable and diversified. As you gain experience and learn more about investing, your risk tolerance may evolve over time, leading you to adjust your portfolio accordingly.

According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Behavioural and Experimental Finance, investors who are more financially literate tend to have higher risk tolerance. This highlights the importance of ongoing financial education 🎓 in building confidence and making informed investment decisions.

Summary

You should now have a better understanding of this essential personal trait and its impact on your investment strategy. By considering factors like financial goals, age, and investment experience, you can assess your own risk tolerance and create a portfolio that’s tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

As you grow and evolve as an investor, your risk tolerance may change, and that’s perfectly normal. Embrace the journey, and know that with every new experience, you’re becoming a more confident and informed investor.