What’s a portfolio without a bond position? It’s incomplete and potentially riskier than necessary.

We field so many questions about your portfolios and asset allocation and while stocks may seem sexier because of their upside potential, you always hear me stress that everyone needs exposure to bonds as well.

We rarely dive into bonds in great detail--what they are, how they work, and why you absolutely need them, which is why I thought it would be time for a little Bond Boot Camp. Our leader for this mission on today’s podcast is Justin Land, aka the ultimate bond guru.

Justin is the Director of Tax Exempt Portfolio Management at Wasmer, Schroeder & Company, an investment advisory firm based in Naples, FL.

In the current environment where it seems like the Dow is setting records on a daily basis, there’s probably a lot of people out there who want to be 100% invested in stocks. But what happens when the Bull turns into a Bear -- what will help protect you then?

What if I told you that by owning a bond position, you’d only miss out on a little of the upside, but in return, your downside would look far better when that eventual correction occurs.  

And make no mistake...it’s coming.  It’s a matter of when, not if.  

After hearing this chat with the bond guru, if you don’t already, I hope you add some to your portfolio and start out 2018 on the right financial foot!

“Better Off” is sponsored by Betterment.

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"Better Off" theme music is by Joel Goodman, www.joelgoodman.com.

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