Wow, before you know it the leaves will be turning, and summer will be over! All is well here at JDS Wealth Management, and like most times we've kept busy. Matt and Kelly just got back from spending a few days down in Florida with Global Financial Private Capital. They were training on Global's updated reporting systems, catching up with all the changes going on at Global, and they got to tour Global's new office in Sarasota. It's everyone's goal to make tracking and reporting on assets easier for clients, as well as being able to integrate all assets on one report (annuities & managed money).

Now, let's get on to these crazy markets we've experienced this past month. Yikes! If you love roller coasters, then I guess you're having a grand old time. But for the more conservative people, I'm sure you've lost a little sleep. Make sure you read my October Lake Norman Magazine article titled "What's Your Stock Market Exit Strategy". It's not out yet, but we can email you an advanced copy if you let us know you're interested. I touch on how much money retirees should reasonably have in the market and why we use non-market-based strategies so in many of our plans. We firmly believe that, as a retiree, you should not have all (or a significant portion) of your money at risk. Because of this, when markets go crazy our clients don't worry much. Our plans are founded with security & income in mind, so some market volatility won't hurt the plans in the long run.

I've said this before, and I'll keep saying it: "the purpose of the money dictates where you put it"! Please don't gamble with what you can't afford to lose. I believe the stock market will continue to be extremely volatile going forward, and one must navigate these waters carefully! A good written-out "downside protection plan" can go a long ways.