RUFAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Who are you and what do you do?
I’m an independent asset allocation consultant. I've been in the markets since 1996, and from 2001 to 2022 I worked in the FX industry. My specialty is simple, rules-based portfolios made up of liquid ETFs, with clear risk parameters, rebalancing rules, and optional recurring contributions.
Do you manage money?
No. I don’t take control of your accounts or place trades on your behalf. I design the plan, portfolio, and rules; I explain the logic, train you in the process, and support you along the way. Your money stays in your account at a broker or bank of your choice.
Do you have any conflicts of interest with banks or brokers?
No. I receive no commissions or kickbacks from brokers, banks, or fund issuers. All recommendations are 100% in your interest.
What exactly will I get?
- A concise Investment Plan: target asset class allocations, currency splits, risk limits, rebalancing rules, allowed instruments, and restrictions.
- Action checklist: how to open an account, what to buy and in what order (market vs limit orders), how to set up regular contributions.
- A Google Sheets model: calculations, rebalancing calendar, deviation tracking, progress toward goals.
- A monitoring dashboard: allocation, performance, drawdowns, goal status.
- Q&A support and plan updates when your life situation changes.
- Optional ongoing support.
What does the process look like?
- Diagnostics – understanding your goals, timeline, income/expenses, experience, and risk psychology.
- Portfolio design – building the strategic core and, if desired, adding light tactical overlays within strict guardrails.
- Instrument selection – ETFs, currencies, rebalancing frequency and thresholds.
- Implementation – account setup, asset purchases, automation of deposits or withdrawals.
- Follow-up – ongoing monitoring and check-ins as agreed.
What is strategic asset allocation, in simple terms?
It’s the backbone of your portfolio: long-term target weights across asset classes. It changes rarely and only when your life circumstances change.
Who is this approach suitable for?
Anyone seeking a calm, transparent, and repeatable investment process – from beginners to busy professionals and entrepreneurs who prefer discipline over news-driven noise. Also for those who don’t want emotional swings from watching daily price movements.
What instruments do you use?
Liquid, low-cost ETFs across all major asset classes. No exotic stuff. A small speculative sleeve is possible – but only within strict risk limits.
Are there any restrictions in the Investment Plan?
Yes, by default: no leveraged ETFs, no single stocks, no complex derivatives or structured notes, and no “get-rich-quick” trades. Crypto – only if it's an intentional goal and only in small doses with clear risk limits.
What happens if the market crashes or spikes?
The plan accounts for this. Regular contributions smooth out entry points, rebalancing sells high and buys low within set bands, and drawdown limits are predefined in your plan.
How do you choose ETFs?
Based on cost (TER), liquidity/spreads, replication method, tax efficiency, issuer reliability, and index tracking accuracy.
What about expected returns?
I don’t promise returns or make market forecasts. I build a portfolio tailored to your goals and timeframe to maximize the odds of success with controlled risk. Outcomes depend on markets, discipline, and time.
How do you handle currency risk and deglobalization?
We factor in FX exposure and potential market fragmentation. The Investment Plan includes currency allocations and acceptable platforms/instruments to keep the portfolio viable under various scenarios.
How often do you make changes?
Strategic asset allocation – rarely, only when your life changes.
Rebalancing – calendar-based or deviation-triggered.
Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA) – optional and used moderately.
Can you help with taxes?
I’ll explain the general principles and common practices, but I don’t provide legal or tax advice.
What does it cost?
A flat, pre-agreed fee. No AUM percentage, no hidden charges. Final offer after understanding your goals and the scope of work.
How do we communicate?
Online or in person – as agreed.
How do I get started?
Just write to me. We'll schedule a brief intro call to discuss the setup. If it clicks – we begin.
If you have more questions – ask away. The more specific the question, the more precise the answer.