The asset allocation of the portfolio is clearly the most important aspect of investing.  Asset allocation decisions are generally made based on the following factors: anticipated contributions and withdrawals, risk tolerance and investment time horizon.  The largest effect on a portfolio’s expected return or expected standard deviation results from the decision to allocate a certain percentage of the portfolio to equities and a certain percentage to fixed income.   Additional changes can be made to a portfolio’s expected return and expected standard deviation through the addition of asset classes such as international stocks, mid capitalization stocks or small capitalization stocks.  We will assist you in optimizing the proper asset allocation for you and your heirs.