Not all female clients are cautious investors

Female clients may have a reputation for being cautious, but that's not always the case, according to Lisa A.K. Kirchenbauer, president of Omega Wealth Management LLC. “While women do tend to be more focused on planning for the future, we run into situations where a wife is more aggressive than her husband, and you might have to invest their retirement plans completely differently as a result,” said Ms. Kirchenbauer, who is based in Arlington, Va. In fact, the adviser's most aggressive client is a divorcee in her late 40s who doesn't fit the mold of the firm's typical risk taker — a male entrepreneur. No, this client is a dental hygienist who works part time. “Generally, her portfolio is more aggressive than the norm, as far as the percentage invested in stock,” Ms. Kirchenbauer said. “She shatters all the stereotypes of who's a risk taker and who isn't. It's always good to leave your preconceptions at the door.” — Darla Mercado