Shake Off Emotions and Control Your Portfolio

We are living in highly emotional times. But how can investors make sure those emotions don't get in the way of good investing decisions? In this episode of WashingtonWise, host Mike Townsend welcomes Stephanie Shadel, senior wealth advisor at Charles Schwab, for a timely discussion on managing emotions during turbulent markets and the impact of Washington policy decisions on investing. Steph shares practical strategies for keeping emotions in check, building a financial plan, and considerations in making smart year-end decisions—including rebalancing portfolios, reviewing liquidity needs, and navigating the new tax law. She discusses how the tax planning, charitable giving, and estate strategies are evolving in light of recent legislative changes, providing actionable suggestions on the key questions for investors to discuss with their financial advisor before the end of the year. Mike also shares updates on the ongoing government shutdown, including how the Federal Reserve is navigating the lack of government economic data in advance of the upcoming monetary policy meeting.

WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/WashingtonWise.

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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned  suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

An investment in a money market fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although a money market fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.

All names and market data shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks, including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors. 

Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk. 

Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.

Rebalancing does not protect against losses or guarantee that an investor’s goal will be met. Rebalancing may cause investors to incur transaction costs and, when a non-retirement account is rebalanced, taxable events may be created that may affect your tax liability.

Neither the tax-loss harvesting strategy, nor any discussion herein, is intended as tax advice and Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. does not represent that any particular tax consequences will be obtained. Tax-loss harvesting involves certain risks including unintended tax implications. Investors should consult with their tax advisors and refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website at www.irs.gov about the consequences of tax-loss harvesting.

There are risks associated with investing in dividend paying stocks, including but not limited to the risk that stocks may reduce or stop paying dividends.

A donor's ability to claim itemized deductions is subject to a variety of limitations depending on the donor's specific tax situation. Consult a tax advisor for more information.

Investors should consider, before investing, whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, s