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TOP MISTAKES MADE BY AVERAGE INVESTORS

1. Failing to Diversify

  • Holding too few funds
  • Investing in the same kinds of funds
  • Loading up on company stock

2. Rarely Changing Allocations

  • 80% of participants never make changes to their original fund allocations.¹

3. Making Decisions Not Based on Research or Long-Term Strategy

  • Using tips, rumors and latest financial news to make investment decisions.
  • Relying on friends, family and co-workers for advice.
  • Chasing returns, trying to time the market or using “buy-and-hope” investment strategies.

4. Not Acting on Advice from Financial Advisor

  • Most Financial Advisors stay involved with their client’s investments, but prefer to leave their 403(b) and 457 accounts alone.
  • When the average investor gets advice from a Financial Advisor they often fail to follow through on that advice.

5. Not Saving Enough

  • With the U.S. Social Security System being strained and many companies discontinuing their pension plans, the 403(b) and 457 plans become even more important.

¹ Source: Hands-off: Holders of 401(k) Retirement Accounts Are Not Your Typical Investors,
Knowledge @ Wharton, 2006

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