2. Private investments: such as venture capital, secured or private debt or private equity funds that buy into companies not traded on public markets.
3. Real assets: including real estate, infrastructure or commodities that can provide inflation protection and tangible value.
Each category carries distinct risk and liquidity profiles. The presenters cautioned that while alternatives can offer potentially higher returns, they often come with longer time horizons and less immediate access to capital. At the same time, some alternatives, such as structured products, may offer downside protection to help mitigate market volatility. These are not necessarily a replacement for traditional investments, but a complement that can enhance diversification and stability.
The Physician Perspective
The discussion resonated strongly with attendees who, as the presenters acknowledged, face unique financial circumstances. Physicians often enter their peak earning years later in life, after extended training, and may accumulate significant investable assets in a relatively short period. They also tend to have complex tax situations, business ownership interests and retirement planning needs.
According to Vanguard’ s Emotional & Time Value of Advice survey:
• 86 % of advised clients report greater peace of mind. 1
• 60 % of advised clients feel less anxiety when it comes to managing their finances. 1
• 75 % of advised clients say working with an advisor saves them time- 100 + hours per year. 1
For physicians, that’ s time better spent with patients, family or simply reclaiming work-life balance.
Peace of Mind Through Partnership
The Encore team encouraged physicians to approach investing and planning with the same disciplined, evidence-based mindset they bring to medicine. Just as in clinical practice, the key is assessment, diagnosis and a tailored plan. There’ s no one-size-fits-all portfolio. Each investor has different goals, timelines and tolerance for risk. The Encore team’ s role is to help align financial decisions with those realities, creating comprehensive and cohesive financial plans covering retirement planning, tax strategies, investments, protection planning, estate planning, education, business planning and succession strategies, etc.
Financial Advice isn’ t just about numbers. It’ s about confidence, clarity and control. For physicians juggling demanding careers and complex financial decisions, partnering with a trusted advisor can be transformative and provide much needed peace of mind.
Building a Smarter Financial Future
As the session concluded, attendees left with a greater appreciation for the tools and strategies available to them beyond conventional stockand-bond portfolios. The conversation underscored a larger shift in physician thinking: recognizing that financial literacy and proactive planning are essential components of professional well-being.
As this session made clear, thoughtful investing is one more way physicians can ensure that their legacy of care extends well beyond the clinic.
References:
1
Vanguard’ s Investment Strategy Group.“ Advice Pays in Peace of Mind and Time: Vanguard Survey Reveals Hidden Value of Financial Advice.” Vanguard, July 07, 2025, https:// corporate. vanguard. com / content / corporatesite / us / en / corp / who-we-are / pressroom / press-release-advice-pays-in-peace-of-mind-andtime-vanguard-survey-reveals-hidden-value-of-financial-advice-07072025. html
This summary was generated by AI transcription software based on the live presentation delivered during the GLMS Foundation’ s Senior Physician Speaker Series. Thank you to Dr. Sam Yared for reviewing and adding insights to this summary. Final editing provided by Dr. Mary Barry.
GLMS Foundation Senior Physicians Speaker Series
Make sure to add these dates to your calendar so you don’ t miss out! December 2nd, 2025 2026 Dates- February 3, April 7, May 5, June 2, August 4, September 2, October 6 and December 1
All meetings will take place at noon via Zoom. The program is free and open to GLMS members and their guest. Please contact us for more information on the programs and how to access the meetings. Senior Physicians Committee Chair, Dr. Sam Yared, has several speakers already lined up, but is always looking for new ideas. If you have suggestions on potential speakers or topics, please reach out, we would love to hear your ideas! Missed a recent program and want to catch up? Contact us for a link to the recordings. foundation @ glms. org | 502-736-6366
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