2025 Q2 Chesser Report

Paula R. Chesser, CSA
Senior Vice President & Senior Investment Consultant

Hi There!

Warm weather has come to stay, we hope! It's time to enjoy the sunshine and long summer days. Take time to relax and relish in lazy weekends, enjoy a backyard barbeque with friends, jump in the car for a fun road trip, or take in the serene beauty of Lake Erie! Whatever it is you choose to do; remember to include those you cherish most!

Mike Antonelli, Market Strategist and Ross Mayfield, Investment Strategist recently put together a video sharing market volatility perspectives and included some of Warren Buffett's meaningful wisdom. Take a listen, it's worth the 10 minutes!

All That Matters: What Did We Learn?

I know some of the recent headlines and market swings have been unsettling. First and foremost, I want to assure you if you are feeling anxious during challenging market environments it is completely normal – a lot of times even the most seasoned investors feel it.

Putting Things in Perspective: While every situation is unique, history has shown the market’s resilience. We’ve seen periods of uncertainty before – and markets have eventually regained strength each time. This is a helpful reminder that downturns tend to be temporary, and staying calm through the storm often pays off.

Your Personal Plan: Remember a Lifestyle Wealth Plan is built to weather market volatility. A diversified portfolio aligned with your long-term goals means it’s designed to handle challenging market environments. Rather than making reactive changes based on short-term events, it's typically best to stick with your customized strategies based on your purpose and objectives. Of course, if anything in your personal situation changes, always reach out to your Wealth Manager, but absent that, the best course is usually patience and discipline.

Wealth Manager: Working with a seasoned Wealth Manager who offers availability and one-on-one conversations is critical during periods of uncertainty. They should be available to discuss the markets or your portfolio or listen to your concerns to provide you direction and discuss the reasons behind the structure of your portfolio.

For those I have the pleasure to work with, I'm just a phone call away. If things have changed in your life, you want to discuss what's on your mind or you wish to discuss your portfolio, I'm available to help!

Also, if you or someone you love has not implemented a Lifestyle Wealth Plan or has concerns about their situation, let's connect to begin the dialogue!

Looking forward to our next conversation. 😊

Warm Regards,

Paula

PS - Baird's Cash Sweep Program provides the opportunity to earn income on available cash balances held in Baird Accounts. For more information give me a jingle for further discussion.

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Ask Paula

Dear Paula,

My spouse and I continuously have the same conversation. "How will we know if we have done "enough" when the time comes for retirement? We have both worked diligently over the years, raising and providing for our family while working full time. Both of us participate in retirement savings plans offered from our employers and we consistently ensure we have savings.

We have saved what we believe to be a significant amount for retirement however we are worried about if it will be enough to maintain the lifestyle we want, and give us the opportunity to continue doing the activities that bring us joy.

How do we find an Advisor to help us through this life change? What characteristics should we seek out? Where should we start? Also, should we consider estate planning? We both want to enjoy retirement; where do we begin?

Any suggestions you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Joe

Hi Joe,

Finding a professional involves a combination of research, referrals and interviews to ensure the person or firm you choose aligns with your financial goals, values, and level of complexity. Below are a few items for consideration before you go searching:

Define your financial goals, retirement planning, tax efficiency, estate planning, etc. Understand the complexity of your assets and needs. Decide whether you need comprehensive wealth management or more focused financial advising.
Understand different types of professionals. Wealth Managers typically serve high-net-worth individuals and offer integrated services. Financial Advisors/Planners may focus more on budgeting, planning and general investing.
Search and vet candidates. Ask trusted friends, family or other trusted professionals. Look at NAPFA.org, CFP.net and other websites to learn more.
Interview multiple candidates. Ask questions to learn if the professional is a fiduciary, understand how fees are charged, what services are offered, investment philosophy, etc.
Communication is key. Enquire as to the professional's communication style to see if it fits your preferences. Have the professional explain what your experience will be working with them or their team.

I'm happy to discuss further if desired!

Warm Regards,
Paula

Meet the Team

Paula R Chesser, CSA
Sr Vice President & Sr Investment Consultant
pchesser@rwbaird.com

Mary Ellen Polosky

Client Assistant

mpolosky@rwbaird.com

Team Paula’s successful wealth management practice assists Very High-Net-Worth Yacht Owners, Successful Business Owners, and Multi-Generational Families in navigating 5 key areas: 1) wealth preservation, 2) tax mitigation, 3) taking care of heirs, 4) protecting assets, and 5) analyzing charitable options. Professional licenses include Series 7, 66 and life & long-term care insurance.

Team Updates

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Paula's Recent Highlights!

It's Spring project time and Paula had a new roof installed. The contractors showed up, worked efficiently and professionally! Also, the boat is floating! A bit rainy on launch day but it is securely at the dock ready for the Spring/Summer activities!