6 Many of you have been hearing or reading in the news the discussion on what is referred to as the “Fiduciary Rule.”A version of the Fiduciary Rule was originally proposed in 2010 by the Department of Labor (DOL), then quickly withdrawn amid great protest in the financial industry. Essentially, the concept is and was to overhaul ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) — originally enacted in 1974 to regulate the quality of financial advice surrounding retirement. In 2015, President Obama reintroduced the concept, explaining,“It’s a very simple principle: You want to give financial advice, you’ve got to put your client’s interests first.” In April of 2016, the final rulings were issued and were slated to phase in from April of 2017 to January of 2018. THE FIDUCIARY RULE AND HOW IT RELATES TO CCM In the headlines as of late is that effective with the new administration, a bill has been introduced as well as a presidential memorandum that is delaying the rule’s implementation in a move that many believe will materially change, if not eliminate, the ruling. The crux of the matter is that dating back to 1974, and even earlier in other forms of rules and legislation, the government has worked to enact standards, laws, regulations, rules and guidelines to protect consumers and investors. One of the strongest ways to do that is to require professionals that give financial advice and manufacture investment products to always act in the best interest of the client.That, in essence is at the heart of the Fiduciary Rule. Last month, we sent out an email entitled, “What the Fiduciary Rule andTelling theTruth have in Common – andWhy Both Are So Freeing.” If you missed it, we encourage you to read it online at carlsoncap.com/articles or contact us for a printed copy. If you visit the website, along with this article you’ll also find a related illustrated video clip, “A Unique Approach to Wealth Management,” that explains how, as an independent firm, CCM applies a fiduciary standard and utilizes an integrated platform. It’s a great piece to share with anyone you think could benefit from working with us at CCM. By knowing what return you need we are best able to partner with you to to determine the appropriate allocation to stocks and bonds. 4. Look beyond investment performance. Quality investment management is critical for a successful wealth management plan but it is helpful to look beyond performance.We encourage clients to look at why they are investing.Wealth is a tool to accomplish what is important to you and by knowing why you are investing, you’ll be able to determine if your portfolio is helping you accomplish your goals. Of course, your CCM Advisory Team is here to help and guide you through all of these steps.Awareness of the importance of these activities as related to “lifestyle inflation” and the subsequent expenses will help ensure that they are reflected in your comprehensive financial plan. PLANNING FEATURE continued from page 5 GREG CARLSON, CFP‰ , CEO AND FOUNDER FIDUCIARY STANDARDS