
By David Lamb CFP™ MCSI
Evidence-based investing (EBI) is a transformational approach that can empower you to make smarter, more confident investment decisions.
Over the next few months, I’ll explore how this strategy can help you understand what truly matters in your investment journey and reach your financial goals with clarity and peace of mind.
As a financial planner, I am often asked the most fundamental question by my clients: ‘How much is enough?’
This question is not just about the amount of money needed for retirement; it’s about understanding the core of what your financial future requires and aligning your investment strategy with that goal.
Knowing your ‘enough’ figure is essential because it serves as the foundation upon which all your investment decisions are built. Without it, you’re flying blind, trying to guess what’s enough, which can lead to unnecessary stress, frustration and even poor decision-making.
Many people overlook this vital step but it’s key to determining how much risk you should be willing to take.
When you clearly understand how much money you need, we can calculate the expected returns necessary to achieve that goal and select the appropriate level of risk. This strategic clarity reduces guessing and helps you develop a disciplined, confident approach to investing.
It is a very different approach to that promoted by investment companies, who tend to focus on promoting new funds and flashy strategies because they benefit from your ongoing quest for the next ‘big thing’.
But frequent fund switching can erode your returns over time and leave you worrying unnecessarily.
This is where EBI comes in. Over the course of this series, I will introduce you to this proven approach, grounded in rigorous research and real-world data. EBI removes the guesswork, reduces costs and simplifies your decision-making process.
It shifts the focus from chasing potentially fleeting gains to building a stable, reliable investment strategy that aligns with your unique personal goals.
By understanding the science behind investing, you’ll be better equipped to achieve your ‘enough’ and enjoy your financial future with peace of mind.
