LawyerFI Podcast: Small Cap Value Funds: Worth It? (Episode 25-010)

Is “small cap value” the secret sauce to higher long-term returns — or just unnecessary complexity? In this episode of the LawyerFI Podcast, host Adam B. Cordover breaks down one of the most debated topics in investing.

You’ll hear the case for and against small cap value funds from some of the biggest names in finance:

Paul Merriman, who champions tilting your portfolio toward small and cheap companies for potential long-term rewards

Rick Ferri, who says simplicity and low cost are the only strategies that stand the test of time

J.L. Collins, who reminds investors to keep it simple with a total market approach

We’ll unpack what small cap value investing actually means, how it fits into a lawyer’s or high earner’s financial plan, and whether the potential premium is worth the patience it demands.

Topics covered:
What “small cap value” really is
Merriman’s “Two Funds for Life” approach
Ferri’s case for simplicity and cost control
Historical evidence vs. behavioral challenges
Practical fund options (VBR, AVUV, DFSV, and more)
How to decide if small cap value belongs in your portfolio

Whether you’re aiming for higher returns or peace of mind, this episode helps you think critically about how to invest smarter on your path to financial independence.

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Resources mentioned:
Paul Merriman Financial Education Foundation – https://www.paulmerriman.com/
Rick Ferri – https://rickferri.com/
J.L. Collins, The Simple Path to Wealth – https://jlcollinsnh.com/
Avantis U.S. Small Cap Value ETF (AVUV)
Vanguard Small Cap Value ETF (VBR)
DFA U.S. Small Cap Value ETF (DFSV)

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This episode is brought to you by Florida-based Collaborative Family Law Attorney Adam B. Cordover. Family Diplomacy: A Collaborative Law Firm, serving professionals across Florida with dignity and privacy in divorce. Learn more at http://www.familydiplomacy.com/ or call 813-443-0615.

We accept clients in every county in Florida and have offices by appointment in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota.  Contact us to schedule a confidential virtual planning meeting.