May 28, 2026
Many investors see passive investing as the safest, most cost-effective way to build wealth. In this episode of Off The Wall, David B. Armstrong, CFA and Nate Tonsager, CIPM, CFA challenge that assumption by pulling back the curtain on what can happen to passive investors when the market turns.
They break down the hidden risks of matching a benchmark exactly, exploring how a 20% market drop means an automatic 20% hit to your personal wealth if you don't have an active strategy behind you. They cover boredom mindsets, as well as answering the question: Should you be an active or passive investor?
The goal of finding the cheapest solution is too simplistic and comes with unnecessary risk. The more strategic goal is to build a portfolio that actively protects your financial freedom.
Please see important podcast disclosure information at https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/disclosures
Episode Timeline/Key Highlights:
00:00 - Disclosures And Warm Open
01:58 - Active Vs Passive Defined Clearly
03:58 - The V8 Portfolio And Manager Discipline
15:16 - Passive Investing And The Boredom Trap
19:25 - Taxes, Turnover, And Account Type
21:35 - Actively Managing ETFs For Diversification
27:32 - Emerging Markets Breakdown And What Works
32:59 - Listener Questions, Contact Info, Closing
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Check out our Between Sips Podcast: Where Money Meets Meaning
Because money without meaning never feels like wealth. https://monumentwealthmanagement.com/between-sips-podcast/
About “Off the Wall”:
Markets are noisy. Your time is limited. Off The Wall cuts through the clutter. Hosts David B. Armstrong, CFA and Nate Tonsager, CFA, CIPM bring you straightforward, candid insights about what’s really moving markets and why it matters for successful investors. From economic shifts to portfolio positioning, we break down the complexities so you can invest with intention and stay grounded when headlines and life feels chaotic.
Learn more about our hosts on our website at https://monumentwealthmanagement.com