Category: Articles

This past quarter brought plenty of ups and downs – and ultimately, higher than expected returns. It also serves as a powerful reminder of two core investment principles: (1) markets can change direction quickly, making it hard to time them, and (2) maintaining diversification remains one of the best ways to weather uncertainty. While these ideas are often repeated, they can be easy to overlook in the heat of short-term market swings, when emotion tempts investors to make decisions that could be harmful in the long run. 

While applying to college may be the most stressful part for students, figuring out how to pay for it is often just as overwhelming for parents. The financial burden of higher education can often feel like taking on a second mortgage. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and planning, families can make more informed and manageable choices.

A famous 20th century investor and fund manager, Sir John Templeton, once called the phrase, “This time it’s different,” the four most dangerous words in investing. The idea that the present is somehow “different” often arises from our natural tendency to magnify the present. The challenges we face today tend to feel monumental because they’re immediate and personal. And yet, history has shown that patience and perspective are powerful tools, especially in uncertain times. 

Today’s financial media is a constant stream of opinions, predictions, and product promotions – all presented as “advice”. Unfortunately, this so-called advice often sounds so convincing that it can tempt even disciplined investors to take impulsive action. But reacting impulsively can lead to costly mistakes. Instead, let’s take a look at a few tips to help you stay focused and keep your investment plan on track.

The start of the year often brings a sense of change and the promise of new beginnings. While health and wellness often take center stage during this time, it’s important not to overlook another vital pillar of well-being: financial health.

As we close out another remarkable year at Willow Creek Wealth Management, we'd like to express our deepest gratitude for the trust and partnership you’ve shared with us.

Whether we are aware of it or not, emotions often wield significant influence over our personal investment decisions. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about how we respond to them emotionally.

Towards the end of each year, it is common to see financial forecasts being issued for the year ahead. Market analysts and financial pundits put forth estimates of where the market will end the year and how the economy will perform. 

As we step into 2024, we at Willow Creek Wealth Management are filled with gratitude, pride, and excitement as we reach our 40th anniversary milestone.

Willow Creek Wealth Management, based in Sebastopol, CA, announced today that as of January 1, 2024, Director of Operations, Beverly Hanson, and Client Service Associate, Nancy Spallino, are now partners and shareholders at the firm.