Investment Philosophy

Risk First, Not Return First

 

Investment decisions begin with risk management rather than return chasing. Because markets can be unpredictable—especially in the short term—portfolios are built to help manage uncertainty through diversification, sizing, and planning discipline, not to eliminate risk or guarantee outcomes. Risk is considered broadly, including market risk, behavioral risk, tax considerations, and concentration risk.

Top-Down Asset Allocation Drives Results

 

Long-term outcomes are driven primarily by asset allocation, not security selection or market timing. Portfolios are constructed using diversified asset classes, with allocations reflecting risk tolerance, risk capacity, and planning objectives.

Discipline Over Prediction

 

Synergos does not attempt to forecast markets, interest rates, or economic cycles. Instead, the firm relies on disciplined, repeatable processes and uses rebalancing to maintain intended risk exposure over time.

Tax-Aware by Design

 

Investment decisions are integrated with tax planning. Asset location, unrealized gains, account types, tax brackets, and state taxes are considered before recommending changes. 

Evidence-Based Implementation

 

Synergos relies on academic research and empirical evidence rather than narratives or product marketing. Emphasis is placed on diversification, costs, turnover, and after-tax returns. Complexity must justify itself through durable benefits.

Behavior Matters More Than Brilliance

 

Investor behavior is often the largest determinant of long-term outcomes. Portfolios are designed to be understandable and defensible, helping clients stay disciplined during periods of market stress.

Advice Over Asset Management

 

Synergos is a planning-first, advice-driven firm. Investment recommendations are made to support broader financial decisions—such as retirement, tax planning, and liquidity management—rather than to encourage trading activity.