What are Assets?

Savings vs Homeownership

Assets are items of value that you own or control, which can be used to generate income, appreciate in value, or provide a financial safety net. They can be tangible (physical) or intangible (non-physical).

Types of Assets

  • Tangible Assets
    • Real estate (e.g., primary residence, rental properties, vacation homes)
    • Vehicles (e.g., cars, trucks, boats, airplanes)
    • Personal property (e.g., jewelry, art, collectibles)
    • Cash and cash equivalents (e.g., savings accounts, money market funds)
  • Intangible Assets
    • Investments (e.g., stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs)
    • Retirement accounts (e.g., 401(k), IRA, Roth IRA)
    • Business interests (e.g., ownership in a company, partnership)
    • Intellectual property (e.g., patents, trademarks, copyrights)


Characteristics of Assets

  • Value: Assets have a monetary value, which can appreciate or depreciate over time.
  • Ownership: You have control and ownership of the asset.
  • Income generation: Many assets can generate income, such as rental properties, dividend-paying stocks, or interest-bearing bonds.
  • Liquidity: Assets can be converted into cash, although some may be more liquid than others.

Why Assets Matter

  • Wealth creation: Assets can appreciate in value, generating wealth over time.
  • Income generation: Assets can provide a regular stream of income.
  • Financial security: Assets can serve as a safety net during financial downturns or unexpected expenses.
  • Legacy: Assets can be passed down to future generations.

Asset Management

  • Diversification: Spread your assets across different classes to minimize risk.
  • Investment strategy: Develop a strategy to grow your assets, such as dollar-cost averaging or tax-loss harvesting.
  • Risk management: Consider insurance or other risk management strategies to protect your assets.
  • Tax planning: Understand the tax implications of your assets and plan accordingly.