30 Sep 2024

Optimization Overload: When Perfecting Becomes Problematic

When we launched Acropolis over 22 years ago, I thought understanding optimizations would be the key to our success. If we could just figure out “the” optimal allocation, we would be well ahead of everyone else. Of course, that’s true, but figuring out “the” optimal allocation wasn’t possible because you can’t tell in advance. My memory (which could be better) is that the software package we used then suggested a… Read More

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23 Sep 2024

Thank You Chair Powell, May I Have Another!

Early last week, few questioned whether the Federal Reserve would cut interest rates; the only question was whether they would cut by a quarter or a half of a percent. We know now that the Fed cut half a percent (or 50 basis points), but two questions remain. First, why did they cut as much as they did? Second, how much more will they cut? Perhaps I should start with… Read More

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16 Sep 2024

Introduction to Alternatives

I am proud that one of Acropolis’ team members has a new certification for the firm. Before I jump into that, though, here’s a look at what our fine team has already: 15 CFP® Certificants 4 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholders 3 Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) 1 Certified Exit Planner (CEPA) 1 Certificate in Performance Measurement (CIPM) holder 3 ASPPA Qualified 401k Administrators (QKA) 1 Investment Adviser Certified Compliance Professional… Read More

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9 Sep 2024

Index Fund Overhaul: Passive Investing vs. Market Concentration

One of my (many) pet peeves is when people offhandedly say, “Just buy an index fund.” I get the point, and I agree with it: Index funds are a great way to invest, much better than the old-school method of active investing. That said, there are thousands of index funds, and the rules that govern the indexes often create very different portfolios with very different performance. The largest tech-sector ETF… Read More

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