Education comes first at Wachovia

"Over time, most investments do well," says Michael Ryon. "The thing to remember is, they will do well at different times." Ryon, president of Wachovia Securities Financial Network, says that's why classic truisms of the ages, such as "Don't put all your eggs in one basket," or "Patience is a virtue," apply to investment strategies that stress diversified portfolios.

Photo by DONN BROWN, Collier Citizen

Senior financial advisor Michael D. Ryon started Blue Heron Capital Management, part of the Wachovia Securities Financial Network in April of this year.

As a specialist in customized investment plans, Ryon encourages everyone to take time to study his or her personal financial issues.

"I stress the importance of education to my clients," said Ryon.

"Understanding means people are less afraid. Things such as income needs, age, risk tolerance and estate questions affect investment choices." He recommends that everyone sit down with a qualified advisor and develop an investment plan, then implement and monitor that plan.

"But it's important to review that plan every three to six months and adjust it based on your needs and economic outlook," he adds.

Young couples especially stand to benefit from advance planning, but Ryon was firm about one thing. "The first and most important investment families can make is to buy a life insurance policy," he said.

He also said it's important for everyone to get into the habit of monthly investing.

"Put away $50 or $100 into a small investment account each month, the amount is not important," he maintains. "It's a no-pain way to work toward an overall plan down the road." Noting the explosive growth of the community, Ryon decided to locate his office on East U.S. 41 across from the Lely horses because he wanted to have a full-service investment, retirement, and estate planning office in East Naples so people wouldn't have to drive all the way into town.

"We believe it's time for East Naples to have quality investment advice available close to home," he says.

Ryon spent about 13 years as a CPA with a major New York brokerage firm in Naples, before deciding he preferred actual decision making in the investment process versus reporting about decisions that have already been made.

Although Wachovia is the third largest investment brokerage firm in the country, Ryon chose to focus on the needs of residents in the local community, especially retirees.

He urged caution about purchasing long-term bonds in today's rising interest-rate economy, but points to the emergence of exchange traded funds such as SPYDRs and ISHARES as the coming trend.

"These low-cost index funds are going to be huge in the market," said Ryon. "A mutual fund might cost the client three percent, but an ETF may only cost one-quarter of one percent. The difference goes straight to your bottom line. That adds up after awhile." Ryon is available to do free group and individual educational seminars and promises he will try to be interesting. Meanwhile, though walk-ins are welcome during regular business hours from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, he encourages people to call for an appointment.

"If someone needs me to come to their home, I'll gladly do that, too," he says.