How does portfolio rebalancing work?
Before we talk about rebalancing, let's talk about portfolio allocation. When you set up your portfolio, you decide how many stocks, bonds, or other securities make up your portfolio.
Over time, your asset allocation can change or you may want a different asset allocation. Changing the securities in your portfolio is known as rebalancing.
🌖 How it works
Let's say that when you initially set up your portfolio, your allocation was 90% stocks and 10% bonds. After some time, your portfolio became 95% stocks and 5% bonds.
To get back to the 90/10 allocation, you'll have to sell some stocks and use that money to buy more bonds.
💲 What's the point of rebalancing?
Financial experts recommend certain portfolio allocations based on your risk tolerance and financial goals. Generally, the more stocks in your portfolio the riskier it is and the more bonds in your portfolio, the less risky your portfolio is.
In the example above, the portfolio has a higher risk than it took on originally. Rebalancing it will return it to your desired allocation amounts.
⏰ How often should you rebalance?
There's no one answer. Financial experts have recommended checking quarterly, six months, once a year, or just when you notice the allocation has changed.
Some portfolios come with automatic rebalancing, so you don't have to do it yourself.
But remember that selling securities can result in fees and taxes, so rebalancing frequently can become expensive.
👉 Keep reading to learn more about rebalancing: https://lnkd.in/gQZ6HXWn 👈
The views expressed are generalized and may not be appropriate for all investors. Investing involves risk, including the loss of principal. Carefully consider your financial situation, including investment objective, time horizon, risk tolerance, and fees prior to making any investment decisions.