Protecting Wealth: Taxes, Concentrated Stock and Risk

How do you protect a lifetime of savings when tax laws and changing life goals shift your priorities? In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat explore wealth preservation, from managing concentrated stock positions and real estate decisions to sophisticated tax planning. In this episode: The $5.6M Property Test: Scott and Pat analyze a caller’s plan to carry three homes in retirement. They discuss “carry risk” and why even a $5.6 million net worth doesn’t automatically justify expanding a real estate portfolio. Savings Trade-Offs at 52: A caller asks how to balance college costs for two children with the long-term goal of maximizing 401(k) contributions and Roth IRA savings. Managing Concentrated Stock: Tom Kaiser, Allworth’s Director of Equity and Option Management, explains how options strategies such as collars can help protect concentrated positions without immediately selling appreciated stock and realizing capital gains. Step-Up in Basis: Scott and Pat explain how this powerful tax provision can reduce or eliminate unrealized capital gains on inherited assets—and why it can play an important role in wealth preservation and estate planning. For investors who have accumulated significant assets, wealth preservation isn’t simply about avoiding risk. It’s about understanding the trade-offs between taxes, spending, investments, and the legacy you ultimately want to leave. Join Money Matters:  Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here.  You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at [email protected]. Download and rate our podcast here.