For the past 8 years, I’ve been making the case that most investors, particularly those who can tolerate volatility, should avoid Lifestyle investment strategies in pensions. It’s been a lonely stance, with little to no mainstream coverage, even though investor feedback on my analysis was consistently positive.

Back in early 2024, I shared updated research on Lifestyle and Default Investment strategies used by pension funds in Ireland. The results were clear: even after more than a decade of strong market performance, investors who took the ‘Do It For Me’ route, defaulting to cautious, de-risking strategies, ended up with significantly poorer outcomes than those who chose a more hands-on, equity-focused approach.

Was I mad? Or missing something? It appears not.

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This week I flashback to a podcast from 2021! While it is a few years old its a common and important question.

Key takeaways

• How big your pension should be when you start drawing down income
• How big your pension should be at various stages of your life
• What you can do if it's not as big as you would like it to be!
• How to live 14.9% longer!

I hope it helps!

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In this week's podcast I chat with Dr. Daniel Crosby. He discusses the evolution of behavioral finance over the past eight years, reflecting on the growing acceptance and understanding of the field. He shares insights from his latest book, 'The Soul of Wealth,' emphasising the importance of health, happiness, and meaningful spending. The discussion also covers the role of community in financial behavior, the impact of delayed gratification, and the future of wealth management in an AI-driven world. Crosby highlights the necessity of practical applications in financial education and the importance of understanding one's relationship with money.

Dr. Daniel Crosby is a psychologist, author, behavioral finance expert and asset manager who applies his study of market psychology to everything from financial product design to security selection.

Key takeaways

• Behavioral finance has gained significant traction in the last eight years.
• Investors today are better educated and more disciplined than in the past.
• The focus of behavioral finance is shifting from avoiding mistakes to enhancing well-being.
• Health is a crucial component of wealth and happiness.
• Experiences often bring more joy than material possessions.
• Delayed gratification is a powerful tool for achieving long-term goals.
• Community and social connections enhance financial well-being.
• AI will play a significant role in the future of wealth management.
• Practical applications of financial wisdom are essential for real change.
• Creativity is vital for personal and professional growth.

I hope it helps!

The Soul of Wealth: 50 reflections on money and meaning

Daniel's Linkedin

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