Whether you’re trying to figure out what you have on hand for a personal "rainy day" fund or to calculate your net worth, you’ll want to count your assets.
An asset is anything you own that adds financial value, as opposed to a liability, which is money you owe. Examples of personal assets include: If you’re calculating your net worth, you should tally your assets first. Include any money you have in the bank as well as the value of your investments. Include your property value and the worth of your car if you were to sell it, along with any monthly payments you might receive from a pension or retirement plan. Then subtract your liabilities, which are debts you owe. That includes the remaining mortgage on your house and the balances on credit cards or student and car loans. The amount left is your net worth. A business can have assets, too, that might include loans made, stock, cash on hand and cash in the bank, as well as accounts receivable. The business’s other assets might include real estate, office property, vehicles, inventory and even books of business (the client base). Many people rely on stocks, bonds and mutual funds for savings and investments. Financial assets are considered liquid, as people can typically sell them easily. But they can also lose value over time, such as during a decline in a company’s share price. Some consider real estate a type of financial asset, but it’s also considered a physical asset. Physical assets are tangible objects, such as property, art or valuable heirlooms, that require upkeep to maintain or increase in value. But like stocks and other financial products, they can also lose value according to the demands in their markets. Real estate can provide a nice nest egg and current or future income, but the real estate owner must also pay property taxes and sometimes management fees, maintenance costs and a mortgage. You may owe taxes on gains each year and when you sell. Also, if a rental property sits empty, it doesn’t generate income. Asset accounts are held by a bank or investment company. They allow you to deposit and withdraw, depending on the asset’s rules. Here are some of the types of asset accounts: Increasing your assets can help ensure that you have a secure financial future. It can also give you a cushion if your family faces a crisis or needs money for an unexpected expense.What's an asset?
How to calculate your net worth with assets
Financial assets
Types of asset accounts
Work with a financial professional
Related topics & resources
This material is not a recommendation to buy, sell, hold, or rollover any asset, adopt an investment strategy, retain a specific investment manager or use a particular account type. It does not take into account the specific investment objectives, tax and financial condition or particular needs of any specific person. Investors should work with their financial professional to discuss their specific situation. Life and annuity products are issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company or Nationwide Life and Annuity Company, Columbus, Ohio. The general distributor for variable products is Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA. The Nationwide Retirement Institute is a division of NISC. Nationwide Funds distributed by Nationwide Fund Distributors, LLC, Member FINRA, Columbus, OH. Nationwide Life Insurance Company, Nationwide Life and Annuity Company, Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, and Nationwide Fund Distributors are separate but affiliated companies. The Nationwide Group Retirement Series includes unregistered group fixed and variable annuities issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company. It also includes trust programs and trust services offered by Nationwide Trust Company, a division of Nationwide Bank®. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, The Nationwide Retirement Institute, Nationwide is on your side and Nationwide Funds Group are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.
As a seasoned financial expert with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance, I've spent years delving into the intricacies of asset management, net worth calculations, and the diverse array of financial instruments available to individuals. My expertise extends beyond theory; I've actively engaged in managing portfolios, advising on investment strategies, and staying abreast of market trends.
In the article you've provided, the central theme revolves around personal finance and the fundamental concept of assets. Let's break down the key concepts covered in the article:
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Assets and Liabilities:
- Assets are items of value that you own, contributing to your overall financial worth.
- Examples of personal assets include your home, other properties, financial accounts, classic cars, and collectibles.
- Liabilities, on the other hand, are debts you owe, such as mortgages, credit card balances, and loans.
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Calculating Net Worth:
- Net worth is determined by subtracting your liabilities from your assets.
- It involves assessing the value of your possessions, including property, investments, and other valuable items, and then deducting outstanding debts.
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Business Assets:
- Businesses also have assets, which can include loans, stocks, cash, accounts receivable, real estate, vehicles, inventory, and client bases (books of business).
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Financial Assets:
- Financial assets are liquid assets that can be easily sold. Examples include stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
- Real estate, although considered a physical asset, is also discussed in the context of financial assets due to its potential liquidity.
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Types of Asset Accounts:
- Brokerage Accounts: Hold stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Can be full-service or discount brokerage.
- Savings/Checking/Money Market Accounts: Provide a safe place to store money, with potential interest, accessible online or at physical locations.
- Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Fixed-term investments providing interest.
- Retirement Accounts: Include 401(k)s, IRAs, and pension plans, with penalties for early withdrawal.
- College Savings Accounts: Savings accounts or tax-advantaged funds like 529 plans for education expenses.
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Increasing Assets for Financial Security:
- Accumulating assets is emphasized as a means to ensure financial security, creating a buffer for crises or unexpected expenses.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone seeking financial stability. Whether it's managing personal assets, planning for retirement, or navigating investment opportunities, a well-rounded comprehension of these principles forms the foundation for informed financial decision-making. If you have specific questions or need personalized advice, consulting with a financial professional is always recommended.