The approach of combining core holdings with
"satellite" holdings has grown in popularity
as investors pursue more specific goals and
expect more from their investments. Learning
more about the core-satellite approach is
the first step in deciding if it’s a strategy you
would like to pursue.
Understanding core holdings
For mutual fund investors, a core holding is
generally a fund with a strong performance
history bought to be held for a long time. The
fund investment objective of a core holding
generally aligns with an investor’s major financial
goal, such as "monthly income" or "long-term
growth." Index funds, broadly diversified
stock or bond funds, and diversified portfolios
that include a mix of equity and fixed-income holdings are good examples. Core holdings
may have a style bias, such as a growth or
value investing strategy, but they focus on
long-term performance.
Understanding satellite investments
Satellite holdings generally represent only a
small percentage of an investor’s portfolio, but
are there for a specific purpose. Most commonly,
a satellite position complements core
holdings, seeking extra return from a more
aggressive investment. For mutual fund investors,
this is usually a fund that specializes in a
narrow market sector or investment style. For
example, funds that invest exclusively in international
small company stocks, real estate
securities, or high-yield bonds might be good
satellites for core holdings in large company
American stocks or U.S. government bonds.
Concentrated portfolios – those that place big
bets on a relatively small number of holdings –
may also be good choices for satellites.
The core-satellite approach
The core-satellite approach is really just another way of thinking about allocating money
among asset classes. It combines a broad market portfolio component (the core or
traditional asset allocation) with a variety of concentrated, actively managed
components (satellites).
Factoring in your risk profile, short-term financial goals, and the changing market environment,
this approach has the potential to deliver greater portfolio diversification with lower
volatility than a traditional strategy alone. Of course, this technique does not guarantee
returns and does not guarantee against loss in a declining market.
A quality core-satellite strategy can help in two ways – by improving return potential, and
by lowering the overall risk profile of your investments. Your financial advisor can help you
select satellite investments that complement your core holdings. |