One of the financial experts that oversees the state’s College Savings Iowa program says turmoil and changes in the financial markets are nothing new. Alba Martinez of the Vanguard Fund says however, this time there are some differences with the government getting involved. She says its new to have the government step in, but companies moving up and down and takeovers has always happened.
Martinez says there’s going to be a lot of realignment of the industry and likely more government regulation, which she says "might be a very good thing." Martinez says a balanced approach is the key to investing, and this time period may teach some people about that.
Martinez says if people come out wiser and more prudent and cautious as they invest, then that will be a win for the financial industry. She says Vanguard has always tried to invest that way, by investing prudently and taking a long-term view of the markets. Martinez says if you want to invest, you need to do your research.
Martinez says a lot of companies have a lot of client information on the web and on the phone. If you want a financial advisor, she says you should also do research and look at their fees so that you aren’t leaving all your money on the table for the advice. And she says you should also go with your gut feeling about an advisor, and not invest with them if it doesn’t feel right. Martinez made her comments at a ceremony celebrating the College Savings Iowa 10-year anniversary.