Benefits Of Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts

Employer-sponsored plans tend to take a one-size-fits-all approach to investment. The benefit of this is that your assets are in an established fund that’s likely to perform reasonably well over the long term. But these plans aren’t tailored to your individual needs, which can leave you out in the cold if you don’t meet their standard investor profile.

With a self-directed brokerage account, you have the ability to manage your own funds. You can invest in a high risk/high reward fund if you’re willing to gamble on higher growth. Alternatively, you can put your money into safer investments, sacrificing the chance of larger gains for the peace of mind that comes with investing in established companies.

And unlike an IRA or a mutual fund, a self-directed brokerage account operates as part of your existing 401(k) program. This means you can take advantage of employer matching contributions, so you’re not leaving any money on the table.

All investments carry some risk, which is why we offer insurance programs to protect your investments from market downturns. Insurance can also help you meet your needs in the event of long-term disability, expensive health insurance claims, and long-term care needs, which can quickly wipe out a lifetime’s worth of savings if you’re not protected.