In this episode we answer emails from Katie, Sean, Glen, Anonymous and Kelly.  We discuss our matching campaign for the Father McKenna Center (rolled out in Episode 426), the BOXX ETF and the Rorschach test it presents, direct indexing, Risk Parity Chronicles, and the real purpose of Financial Independence and how to win at retirement and life.

Links:

Father McKenna Center Donation Page:  Donate - Father McKenna Center

Interview of Wes Gray about BOXX and other tax strategies:  Episode 70: Dr. Wes Gray discusses the unique tax benefits of ETFs and other topics of interest, host Rick Ferri | Bogleheads On Investing Podcast

KBWP at Morningstar:  KBWP – Invesco KBW Property & Casualty Ins ETF – ETF Stock Quote | Morningstar

Risk Parity Chronicles on YouTube:  Risk Parity Chronicles - YouTube

The Life of Catherine McAuley:  Catherine McAuley

Breathless Unedited AI-Bot Summary:  

Money without purpose is just numbers in an account. Financial independence isn't the finish line—it's the starting point of a more meaningful journey.

In this deeply personal episode, Frank Vasquez tackles sophisticated investment strategies while unveiling the philosophical underpinnings of his approach to wealth. He examines the tax-efficient BOXX ETF, explaining how it allows investors in higher tax brackets to potentially convert ordinary income into more favorable long-term capital gains. Drawing on insights from Alpha Architect's Wes Gray, Frank positions this strategy within the evolving landscape of personal finance technology, contrasting innovators against those clinging to outdated viewpoints.

The conversation shifts to direct indexing—a strategy where investors replicate indices by purchasing individual securities rather than funds. Frank cuts through the marketing hype, offering practical guidance on when this approach makes sense (primarily for those in higher tax brackets) and when it's simply not worth the complexity. His personal experience with property and casualty insurance companies demonstrates selective implementation without paying unnecessary fees.

Most powerfully, Frank shares the story that shaped his retirement philosophy—his aunt Sister Francine of the Sisters of Mercy. This "firebrand and hellraiser" ran schools and soup kitchens, challenged the wealthy to contribute more, and built deep community connections. When she died without money or fame, her funeral filled a cathedral with mourners—the ultimate testament to a life well-lived.

What's the purpose of saving all that money if not to create meaningful impact? How might your financial independence serve something greater than account balances? Listen and reconsider what truly constitutes "winning at life."

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