Mar 26 2025 34 mins 74
In this episode we reflect on our recent meet-up and answer emails from Chris, Gigi and Mark. We discuss preferred shares funds and PFFA in particular, considerations about allocations in a TSP based on goals and current progress in your financial life, and them thar new-fangled return stacked funds.
Links:
PFFA Summary: PFFA – Virtus InfraCap US Preferred Stock ETF – ETF Stock Quote | Morningstar
Return Stacked Funds Page: Home - Return Stacked® ETFs
Amusing Unedited AI-Bot Summary:
Welcome to the dive bar of personal finance and do-it-yourself investing, where Frank Vasquez serves up straight talk with a splash of humor. This episode tackles core investment principles that cut through the noise of complex financial products and contradictory advice.
Frank begins by exploring preferred shares funds, specifically PFFA, explaining why its 20% leverage delivers higher returns but also brings greater volatility and a concerning 2%+ expense ratio. This leads into a deeper discussion about when specialized investment vehicles make sense for different investors and why tax implications matter when considering preferred shares positions.
The heart of the episode focuses on a listener's TSP allocation question, which Frank uses to illustrate a fundamental investment truth: many investors start at the wrong end of the planning process. Rather than beginning with fund selection, Frank outlines the proper sequence: first determine your overall financial needs, then establish appropriate asset allocations, and only then select specific funds. He draws an important distinction between accumulation portfolios (where growth is paramount) and retirement portfolios (where volatility management becomes critical).
Throughout the conversation, Frank emphasizes that diversification primarily reduces volatility rather than enhances returns. This insight proves particularly valuable when evaluating new investment products like return-stacked ETFs that combine traditional assets with alternatives like managed futures and merger arbitrage. While intriguing, Frank suggests most investors would benefit more from simpler approaches with established track records.
Whether you're nearing retirement or still in accumulation mode, this episode delivers clear frameworks for making better investment decisions, reminding us that successful investing stems from understanding your unique financial situation rather than chasing complicated strategies. Want more straight talk on building effective portfolios? Subscribe, leave a review, or reach out to [email protected] with your questions.
