What Are the Different Classes of Assets?

When it comes to investing their money, many people are content to take a random approach.

They may have received a hot tip for a particular investment and decided to plow a large amount of money into it with no regard to the overall balance of their portfolios.

However, research has shown that it is through the careful selection of the various asset classes, rather than the individual investments themselves, that people prosper financially.

One study showed that on average, as much as 91.5 percent of an investment portfolio’s overall return can be attributed to asset class selection.¹

Therefore, the careful selection and distribution of your investments among the various asset classes is likely to prove crucial to the future success of your investment portfolio.

There are five broad asset classes that you should take into consideration when constructing your investment portfolio.

Cash refers to the most liquid holdings in your portfolio. It includes the balance in your checking account, money market account, and certificates of deposit.

Conventional wisdom holds that you should keep three to six months’ salary in cash to cover yourself in the event of an emergency.

Fixed-principal investments are those that do not put your principal at risk to market forces. Fixed annuities and trust deeds fall into this category.

Debt makes up the third asset class. It includes municipal, corporate, government, and government agency bonds. It also covers other debt-secured investments such as collateralized mortgage obligations.

Equity represents an ownership interest in a business entity; this class covers any investment you might make in stocks. It also covers any interest you may have in a closely held corporation or partnership.

Tangibles include your holdings in real estate, art, gold, precious stones, stamps, baseball cards, or other valuable collector’s items.

How you choose to distribute your investments among the various asset classes depends on your goals, your risk tolerance, and your expected rate of return.

Keep in mind that asset allocation does not guarantee against loss; it is a method used to help manage investment risk.

All investments are subject to market fluctuation, risk, and loss of principal. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.

Source: 1) Brinson, Singer, and Beebower, “Determinants of Portfolio Performance II: An Update,” Financial Analysts Journal, May-June 1991

The information in this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional advisor. The content is derived from sources believed to be accurate. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. This material was written and prepared by Emerald. © 2012 Emerald Connect, Inc.

*An Index is a portfolio of specific securities. The performance of which is often used as a benchmark in judging the relative performance of certain asset classes. Indexes are unmanaged portfolios and investors cannot invest directly in an index. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Investors should be aware of additional risks associated with international investing such as increased volatility, currency fluctuations and differences in auditing and financial standards.

Investors need to be aware that no investment plan/asset allocation can eliminate the risk of fluctuating prices and uncertain returns.

Material discussed is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only and it is not to be construed as tax or legal advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary; therefore, the information should be relied upon when coordinated with individual professional advice.

Robert S. Keidan is a Registered Representative of and offers securities products & services through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker-dealer. In this regard, this communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the states of AL, AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NC, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, VA, WA, and WV. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

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