FINANCES: Despite the economic climate, now is not the time to succumb to financial panic DECEMBER 2008

During one of the most troubled economic periods in American history, we have recently elected the 44th president of the United States.

This has been a period of unprecedented turbulence in the financial markets, not only in our own country, but globally.

One of the top priorities for our new administration and our new Congress will be to wrestle with the ongoing financial crisis.

It may be global in scope, but its effect is tragically personal.

Many Americans are losing jobs, homes, retirement savings, and quite simply — confidence in the future.

Collectively and collaboratively, we need bipartisan creativity and solutions to put Americans back on track.

The Financial Planning Association represents more than 29,500 financial planning professionals who are dedicated to helping people come to terms with the crisis.

As a member of FPA, I join our membership in placing our hopes and expectations on the new administration and Congress to take this unprecedented opportunity to correct inherent problems in America’s antiquated financial services system.

We focus on protecting and serving the best interests of the consumer first, in all financial advisory relationships.

Many people have lost faith in various sectors of the financial services industry.

A recent study indicates that those with a financial plan feel more on track and confident with the focus of their future goals and dreams, even during market turmoil.

Our members’ clients understand that objective and thorough professional financial planning serves as a road map through treacherous economic terrain.

I believe that a sound strategy for investing can help produce good long-term results.

A sound investment strategy, one with which you are comfortable and believe in for the long-term, helps you to avoid making decisions driven by emotion. Simply stated, “Panic is not an investment strategy.”

I am not in a panic, and neither should you be. I have confidence in the market, and so should you.

Please consider the skills and knowledge of a competent and ethical financial planning professional who puts your best interests before their own.

As your partner in financial planning for your family or your business, a financial planning professional can offer you objectivity and insight about the financial decisions that affect your life goals.

Have you discussed your portfolio with your personal financial adviser lately? Do you have a “rehabilitation strategy” in place for the future?

To gain more insight on the value of financial planning and the resources offered by the Financial Planning Association, you may visit www.FPAforfinancialplanning.org.

As in the above quote by Mark Twain, it is imperative that we use every available tool to plan for a comfortable future.

-- Jennifer Lindgren, CFP, is a local member of the Financial Planning Association. Securities and insurance products are offered through Eagle One Investments, member FINRA/SIPC, 4th and Mill in Porterville, 789-0944.