In recent years, the financial world has seen a rise in trends that reflect a deeper, more holistic view of money management. We aren’t just talking about diversification or risk management anymore. Now, we are talking about aligning your investments with your personal beliefs and values.
This is better known as Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI).
For many faithful, their beliefs are a moral compass, guiding their decisions in every aspect of their lives. It’s only logical that this same compass would eventually point the way in financial planning and investment management.
We’ll explore how BRI concepts can be applied to creating a financial plan for you and your family that includes Judeo-Christina principles and values most important to you.
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9
How The Biblical Principle Of Investing Works
What are the Key Differences Between BRI Financial Planning and Traditional Financial Planning?
Traditional financial planning is primarily centered around your current financial well-being and the pursuit of your financial goals in the future. Emphasis is placed on pursuing return objectives, managing risk, and portfolio management. The primary financial yardstick is investment performance.
Conversely, BRI integrates the teachings and values rooted in the Bible into the financial planning and investment process. Beyond mere financial returns, BRI looks at the moral and ethical implications of investing in various companies that make up portfolios.
For San Antonio BRI financial planners, it’s not just about growing your wealth but ensuring that your investments are aligned with your spiritual beliefs.
So, while both BRI and traditional financial planning aim to pursue future financial security, BRI does so with a keen eye on ensuring the path taken resonates with our clients’ deeply-held biblical principles.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” – Proverbs 21:5
What are the Benefits of Using BRI in Financial Planning?
BRI weaves tangible and intangible benefits into your overall financial plan that aligns with your financial goals and spiritual values.
The core of financial planning is to pursue financial security, independence, and a comfortable lifestyle, especially later in life when you need it the most. Knowing that your investment strategy is based on ethical and moral guidelines can provide great comfort. Think of it this way: You know where you are going and how you will get there. Your financial decisions are based on spiritual principles and values.
One of the frequent misconceptions about BRI is that values-driven investing will compromise your investment returns.
Another way to look at BRI is that you can drive positive change, and your investment choices have real power. By investing in companies that hold your same values, you have the power to endorse that company’s business practices, which can effect change. Using a BRI strategy, you also purposefully choose to avoid investments in businesses that harm people and the environment.
This doesn’t only reflect the personal stance of millions of investors, it also sends a powerful message to the market. Over time, as more and more investors lean towards BRI, companies may be compelled to re-evaluate and refine their business models to be more ethical and responsible.
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” 2 Corinthians [6:14]
Five Important Tactics of BRI
- Every prudent financial journey starts from within. Reflect on your deepest faith-driven convictions. What virtues do you cherish, and what practices do you wish to avoid? Rooting your investments in your faith begins by recognizing core values and beliefs that are important to you.
- Using faith as your guide, consider which companies you want to avoid investing in so there are no conflicts based on your beliefs. Conversely, investing in businesses that mirror your principles should be a good fit for pursuing your financial goals.
- Money has a voice, and yours can advocate for the Godly way. Your investments can be a beacon of positive change, fostering an environment where businesses are expressions of beliefs.
- While diversifying investments across multiple countries, industries, and companies, always be cautious to remain within the boundaries of BRI principles.
- Just as faith requires constant nurturing, so does your portfolio. Regularly track the activities of companies you’ve invested in. Realign your investments whenever necessary, ensuring they resonate with your faith.
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1
Finding a BRI-Certified Financial Planner in San Antonio
San Antonio has a growing number of Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI) CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS (™) or Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) to select from. That’s the good news.
You still have to do your homework to select the right advisor.
Before you hire a financial professional in San Antonio to help you manage your financial future, you want to ensure that they share the same values that align with yours. But how do you vet these advisors to find the best fit for you?
With the right due diligence, you’ll find a BRI-certified advisor who understands your financial ambitions and is familiar with your values and beliefs. Here are five ways to objectively screen and select the right advisor for your situation:
- Credentials and Qualifications: Ensure they hold the necessary licenses, certifications, or designations. BRI certification is essential, but also look for CFP® or other recognizable financial credentials that indicate rigorous training, testing, and adherence to ethical standards.
- Check Regulatory Records: The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and FINRA provide tools to verify an advisor’s compliance background. Any history of complaints or disciplinary actions should be red flags.
- Ask About Their Investment Philosophy: Dive deep into their investment strategies and principles. This will give you insight into whether they truly adhere to BRI standards and their approach is consistent with your goals.
- Fees and Compensation Structure: Transparent discussions about fees are crucial. Understand if they operate on a fee-only, fee-based, or commission basis. This affects your overall expense and could influence the types of advice and products they offer.
- Experience with Similar Clients: An advisor’s past and current clientele can offer insights into their expertise. They may be better suited for your needs if they have substantial experience working with clients similar to you and your financial situation.
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.” Proverbs [15:22]
About PAX Financial Group
As your wealth grows, having a partner by your side is essential – one who upholds fiduciary standards and values Judeo-Christian principles. We believe in giving back to the community and incorporating Christian values into every aspect of our financial planning and investment management services.
Together, we can navigate your financial journey to pursue the life you’ve always envisioned. Connect with our team today to learn more about our BRI-based financial planning services.
