From The Editor: Summer Vacation

Last year lacked some of these qualities, as our ability to travel was restricted due to the pandemic. As for this summer? At the time of writing we are just starting to see activities and businesses opening back up. There are even discussions on how and when borders will open again to accommodate travel. While we welcome the good news, this summer will still be far from normal.

We recently hosted an event as part of our Women & Wealth series. The content centered around navigating life’s transitions, and we welcomed Dr. Amy D’Aprix to share her insights on change and how to manage through transitions. Of course, the topic of retirement was on the list of things covered. Dr. Amy pointed out that many people view retirement as one long vacation, a bit like an endless summer. But in reality, most people will experience retirement as different stages of life.

Typically, the first stage will involve many vacation-like activities. But retirement will start to take on a more day-to-day quality at some point. This is why Dr. Amy emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose in your life. Here is where goals and planning can play a role, and this should go beyond just financial aspects. Of course, with the prospect of longer lifespans and the reality that you could spend a third of your life in retirement, being financially prepared is necessary. In fact, in this issue Dianne White provides a framework for withdrawing your money in retirement. But thinking beyond the financial elements is also important. And while planning certainly includes cash flow, tax, and estate considerations, fundamentally, it involves thinking about the future. And that includes imagining what your life might look like beyond the vacation stage. This isn’t about trying to create a blueprint for your future. Instead, it’s about considering where you might find purpose for yourself as you move through these new stages. You can read an overview of Dr. Amy’s discussion under the Inside Nexus section.

Also, in this issue, Devin Crago describes the various approaches investors take when evaluating Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) considerations and some of the pros and cons of these different methods. He also provides insights into Nexus’s approach to ESG investing.

High quality stocks and a long time horizon are two key factors that contribute to Nexus’s success. Jim Houston introduces us to The Money Tree, the lived-in experience of a 20-year Nexus client, and how these success factors contributed to the growth of their wealth.

Whether it’s investing or otherwise, we don’t know what the short term will bring, including how much we’ll be able to do this summer. But I hope you enjoy the warm weather that comes with the season and you’re able to capture some of those feelings of relaxation and recreation.