The Tragedy of Asset Misallocation

Military history is full of episodes that offer lasting lessons that can be applied in other fields. Take, for example, the unexpected fall of Singapore in World War II. Known as the Gibraltar of the East, Singapore’s defence seemed unbeatable, with massive guns pointing to the sea, awaiting a naval attack. However, the actual assault came through the Malayan jungle, where the guns couldn’t even aim. This strategic blunder resulted from putting resources in the wrong place and had severe consequences.

Just as Singapore fell due to a mistaken assumption about the threat’s direction, many modern-day investors are being misled about the ultimate threat to their financial security.

Guns Facing the Wrong Direction

Investors have been bombarded by internet gurus telling them about the danger of high fees, with the adviser’s cost coming under the spotlight. It has led to many investors believing that a DIY approach is the optimal strategy. While we acknowledge that some investors have the ability and discipline to follow a DIY approach, we have seen too many examples of investors working in isolation, leading to suboptimal results.

We frequently see clients making poor asset allocation decisions: how much to allocate to equities, bonds, and cash. This complex decision must weigh the investor’s time frame, goals, attitude to investing risks, and emotional makeup.

Research shows that over 90% of a portfolio’s return can be attributed to this single decision. It should be taken seriously, yet we still encounter too many investors who have misunderstood the path to success. When we have helped clients correct their approach, the value has far exceeded our advice fees.

While it’s true that high fees can eat into returns over time, fixating on them can distract from more crucial aspects that significantly impact investment success. It’s time we face the guns in the right direction.

The Critical Link Between Asset Allocation and Investor Behaviour

A successful investment strategy starts with knowing how to allocate assets correctly. Our best ally in this war is a good understanding of market history.

While equities (the ownership of the great companies of the world) has been the primary driver of global markets, too many investors have shied away from this asset class for fear of the frequent but temporary declines they experience.

Many long-term investors who can withstand short-term losses have given up real wealth to avoid the emotional stress of unpredictable markets. Some investors willingly accept this trade-off, understanding what it means. But too many investors don’t realise what they’re giving up or what other options they have. This is the great tragedy of asset misallocation.

There are countless examples of clients who have prospered thanks to a simple change in mindset aided by a caring adviser. This is the real value of advice and one we’re excited about showing to more clients.

The Courage To Be Disciplined

In a time where lifespans are becoming longer and longer, too many investors are at risk of investing without intention. While no single portfolio is perfect for every client, all investors could benefit from stress testing their portfolio by asking: “Am I short-changing my future self?”.
Our role as your lifetime financial partner is to reflect your decisions back to you, helping you make the right trade-offs for your unique circumstances. Where appropriate, we will push back and encourage you to follow the path of discipline that your future self will thank you for. Let’s face the guns in the right direction!