Scary Business: Investing the Sudden Large Lump Sum

Young, a certified financial planner, delivers a valuable educational tool for readers who have received, most likely via real estate or inheritance, a “sudden large lump sum.” While receiving a large amount of money is generally a happy event and a “financial game changer,” it also requires mastering the management of a substantial amount of capital, perhaps for the first time in one’s life. For those readers who think they can jump into the job of investing rather than just sticking it in a savings account, Young warns that when it comes to investing, “a little knowledge can truly be a dangerous thing.” Over the course of this concise work, Young provides a quick primer on important topics, such as the distinction between income and growth portfolios, as illustrated by some eye-opening returns charts. Young also breaks down the five “classic” types of investment risks, examines various types of stocks with a memorable turn of phrase—“tennis ball stocks” that bounce and “eggs” that don’t, no matter how good their business plans are—and gives quick reviews of bonds, annuities, donor-advised funds, and legacy planning. Perhaps most valuable is Young’s advice on dealing with a bear market, and what to ask and expect during annual portfolio reviews. Undeniably narrow in its niche subject matter, this is still a good introductory overview of this particular field. (BookLife)