
In my 15 years as an investment adviser, I have reviewed many portfolios. Typically, these situations arise when engaging with a new client or reviewing a current client's funds outside of my advisement, e.g. 401(k). Sometimes, a prospective client asks me to perform a portfolio review like a patient seeks out a second opinion. Whatever the occasion, I enjoy the opportunity to look at another adviser's work which often provides insight into his/her investment philosophy, background, and approach. We work with a diverse clientele with widely varying investment needs and objectives. Whether the portfolio belongs to an individual, non-profit organization, or captive insurance company, there are recurring themes that I find and would handle differently. Here are four common portfolio mistakes that you should avoid.