The Biggest Myths About Portfolio Income

Most investors think their portfolio needs to "pay them" in income. In this episode of Off The Wall, Nate Tonsager, CIPM®, CFA and Dave Armstrong, CFA challenge one of the most common investing habits: chasing income. They walk through how yield gets calculated, why it spikes for the wrong reasons, and how investors end up taking on more risk than they might realize. They also break down why and how total return drives real outcomes for your financial freedom.

Next, the conversation goes deeper into real-life decisions: how much to withdraw, how to think about gifting, and how to make sure your money supports your life while you're here to enjoy it.

The goal isn't to maximize income but to build a portfolio that works for you.

Please see important podcast disclosure information at https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/disclosures

Episode Timeline/Key Highlights:

00:00 - Disclosures and Big Picture

00:34 - The Myth About Portfolio Income

01:57 - Total Return in Plain English

10:37 - Sustainable Withdrawal Rate Reality

13:25 - Giving With A Warm Hand

21:16 - Rules Of Thumb And Real Life

23:35 - Listener Questions And Wrap Up

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Check out our Between Sips Podcast: Where Money Meets Meaning

Because money without meaning never feels like wealth. https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/between-sips-podcast/

About "Off the Wall":

Markets are noisy. Your time is limited. Off The Wall cuts through the clutter. Hosts Dave Armstrong, CFA and Nate Tonsager, CIPM bring you straightforward, candid insights about what's really moving markets and why it matters for successful investors. From economic shifts to portfolio positioning, we break down the complexities so you can invest with intention and stay grounded when headlines and life feels chaotic.

Learn more about our hosts on our website at https://monumentwealthmanagement.com