Events include the O’Neill SMTH Shapes Rookies Rippers, as well as the World Surf League’s The O’Neil SMTH Shapes Ballito Junior Pro and the Ballito Open presented by Flojos, with all of our St Francis Bay Surfers in action.
All photos by Pierre Tostee/ WSL, Kody McGregor/WSLThe Ballito Pro
See also: Sally Fitzgibbons and Luke Thompson (South Africa) Wins Ballito Open presented by Flojos
In the world of investing, fear mongers often prey on the emotions of investors. Advisors who use fear as a tactic are not adding real value; instead, they rely on stirring up emotions to influence decisions. This approach can be detrimental, leading investors to make impulsive and irrational choices that harm their financial well-being.
The fear of missing out (FOMO) is a powerful driver that causes more investors to lose wealth than gain it. When advisors use fear to push clients into hasty investments, they often overlook the importance of a sound strategy. Chasing the latest trends or hot stocks based on fear of being left behind usually results in buying high and selling low, a surefire way to erode wealth.
Some advisors focus heavily on avoiding taxes, promising strategies that seem too good to be true. While minimizing tax liability is a legitimate aspect of financial planning, an overemphasis on tax avoidance can be dangerous. Tax laws change, and aggressive tax strategies can backfire, leading to audits, penalties, and unanticipated costs. Additionally, the fees associated with these complex tax avoidance schemes are often high and hidden, further diminishing returns.
Investing should be grounded in a long-term lifestyle plan. Without a clear plan, there is no guiding reason to invest, leading to scattered and ineffective financial decisions. A well-thought-out plan considers personal goals, risk tolerance, and future needs, creating a roadmap for consistent and disciplined investing. This approach helps mitigate the impact of market volatility and keeps the focus on long-term growth.
Fear and greed are the main reasons people fail to achieve their investment and lifestyle goals. Fear leads to panic selling during market downturns, while greed drives risky investments during market highs. Both emotions disrupt rational decision-making and prevent investors from sticking to their long-term plans.
Beware of advisors who rely on fear to guide your investment decisions. Instead, seek advisors who focus on adding real value through comprehensive, long-term planning. Avoid the pitfalls of FOMO and aggressive tax avoidance schemes, and ensure your investment strategy is aligned with your lifestyle goals. By maintaining a disciplined approach and keeping emotions in check, you can achieve financial stability and success. Investing should be a means to enrich your life, not a source of anxiety driven by fear mongers.
Dirk Groeneveld, Certified Financial Planner.
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