Understanding High-Risk Investments: Insights from Chris McAlpin

I'm Chris McAlpin, Chief Experience Officer at Sound Financial Strategies Group. Today, we're delving into a topic that often intrigues and intimidates investors alike: high-risk investments. My experience spans decades, witnessing everything from the tech bubble to the recent turbulence in the bond market and the pandemic's economic impacts. Through these events, I've gained insights into what constitutes a high-risk investment and how you can navigate these waters safely.

What Defines a High-Risk Investment?

A significant potential for loss characterizes high-risk investments. Academically, investment risk is defined as the possibility of losing money. However, at Sound Financial, we take a broader view: risk is the potential of not achieving your financial goals. This definition reframes risk management as a crucial component of your economic strategy, emphasizing that money is a tool for achieving life's objectives, not an end.

Examples of High-Risk Investments

As I pondered this topic, I realized the fine line between investing and gambling. True investments involve purchasing something of value and allowing it time to grow. Speculative ventures, however, resemble gambling more than investing. Here are a few examples to illustrate high-risk investments:

1. Cryptocurrencies like Dogecoin: Created as a joke, Dogecoin exemplifies a high-risk investment. Despite its lack of intrinsic value and utility, it has seen periods of explosive growth driven by market sentiment rather than fundamentals. This kind of investment is highly speculative and volatile.

2. Leveraged Investments: Investments where you can lose more money than you initially invested represent another high-risk category. This includes using borrowed money to amplify investment returns, which can lead to significant losses, especially if the market moves against you.

3. Short Selling and Short Squeezes: The GameStop saga is a prime example of how short selling can backfire. Hedge funds bet against GameStop, expecting its value to decrease. However, a coordinated effort by retail investors to drive up the stock's price resulted in massive losses for those short sellers, demonstrating the extreme risks involved in such strategies.

Managing Risk in High-Risk Investments

The key takeaway from my years in finance is the importance of managing risk. The highest risk does not come from the investment itself but from failing to manage the risks associated with that investment. Here are a few strategies to consider:

• Diversification: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across various asset classes to mitigate risks.
• Research and Due Diligence: Understand what you're investing in. High returns promised by speculative assets like cryptocurrencies or novel financial products require careful scrutiny.
• Risk Tolerance Assessment: Be honest about your risk tolerance and financial goals. High-risk investments are not suitable for everyone, particularly if you are nearing retirement or have limited funds to spare.

Navigating high-risk investments requires a balanced approach and a clear understanding of your financial goals and risk tolerance. By managing risk effectively, you can prevent substantial losses and move closer to achieving your financial objectives.

Thank you for joining me as we explore the complex world of high-risk investments. At Sound Financial Strategies Group, we are committed to guiding you through making informed, strategic decisions that enhance your financial well-being. Take care!

If you have questions or need help, please contact us.