SMART goals

This one is not written up yet

The definition above is the short version. A full explanation — how it works, a worked example and the exam traps — is still being written. In the meantime the chapter below covers it in context.

Written up from the same chapter

• Asset allocationThe decision on how to distribute a client's wealth across asset classes — the first decision in building a portfolio, and the one that explains most of what the portfolio then does.
• Capital appreciationThe gain made when the market value of an investment rises above what you paid for it — as distinct from income, which is the interest or dividend the investment pays you along the way.
• DiversificationSpreading an exposure across holdings that do not move together, so that total risk falls by more than total return does — minimising risk per unit of return.
• Estate planningDeciding during your lifetime who is to receive which of your assets after your death, and documenting it — mainly through a Will and nominations — so heirs can claim them easily and cheaply.
• Financial planningThe process of estimating what a person will need money for across their lifetime and building an investment plan to meet each of those needs — savings with a purpose attached.
• LiquidityThe degree of ease with which you can turn an investment back into cash at a fair value — one of the three pillars of investing, alongside safety and return.