Investment Choices in Today's Volatile Market

We understand that in today’s uncertain financial marketplace it is becoming increasingly difficult to decide what investment direction to take. With the stock market producing disappointing results, and the financial media reporting so much bad news, many investors are concerned. We have long advocated a disciplined approach to investing that embraces such strategies as asset allocation and a long-term investment horizon.

To help ease your mind, here are three areas we would be happy to review with you:

• Make sure your portfolio is diversified. Markets change. Economic conditions change. And in most cases, no single investment approach will excel in every economic situation.
• Know your risk tolerance. Recent market volatility has served as a pointed reminder that investing involves risk. Your investments should be reviewed to make sure you are not taking on more risk than you are comfortable with.
• Remember your investment time horizon. Don’t let today’s headlines distract you from your goals. As long as your long-term objectives have not been changed, you may want to avoid making hasty decisions at this time.

With current stock market fluctuations, less-than-compelling interest rates, and waning investor confidence, it can be difficult to remain disciplined and committed. If you are having concerns about your financial future, now is a good time to contact one of our investment advisors to review your long-term financial goals.

Our knowledgeable advisors can help you reassess your financial objectives, address any concerns that you may have, and determine if adjustments to your investment strategy are warranted at this time.

Please call us at 1 (800) 479-7928, ext. 5040 if you have any questions or if you would like to make an appointment for a financial review. We look forward to serving you!

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Financial Management, Investments and Retirement Planning

Your Investment Partner For Life
As a Member–Owner of Redwood Credit Union, you can benefit from sound financial advice through our investment services. If your child´s educational expenses, unexpected medical bills, or having enough money for retirement keep you up at night, we´re here to help.

RCU Investment Service´s knowledgeable Financial Advisors can help build a simple to follow plan to assist you in achieving your financial goals and dreams! Call Direct: (707) 576-5040 or Toll Free: (800) 479-7928

• Smart investing in a volatile stock and bond market
• Achieve your short and long-term financial goals
• Pay for escalating college education expenses
• Financial protection for your family & your assets
• Ensure your retirement income will last
• Plan for long-term health care needs

Get on the Road to a Secure Retirement

Whatever your income or stage of life, RCU's knowledgeable Financial Advisors can help build a road map to reach your financial goals. Call today for a FREE, no obligation appointment with our knowledgeable and friendly Financial Advisors. You'll receive a complimentary financial plan containing your personal road map for financial success. We look forward to serving you!

Call Direct: (707) 576-5040
Toll Free: (800) 479-7928

Secured Retirement and Investment Accounts

For the first time since the Great Depression, in 2005, Americans spent more than we earned, which resulted in a savings rate of -5%.* Redwood Credit Union (RCU) is your resource for investments and retirement planning...here are some tips to help you save.

Set a Goal — Build Your Own Savings Account

Stay on track with your savings goal(s) with RCU’s special BUILD YOUR OWN SAVINGS account. It’s a smart and easy way to save.

Saving can be simple if you follow these easy steps:

1. Choose something to save for (vacation, a new car, etc.).
2. Determine the amount you need to save.
3. Establish a savings account and give it a name...such as HOT ROD. An RCU representative can assist you with this quickly and easily.
4. Figure out how much you can afford to save monthly and have the funds deposited electronically.

By paying yourself first each month, you’ll find that your savings goals are attainable!

Long Term Goals – College, Retirement and More

If saving for your child’s education or having enough for retirement is keeping you up at night, contact the knowledgeable and friendly Financial Advisors at RCU Investment Services for assistance with:

• Smart investing in a volatile stock and bond market
• Financial protection for your family & your assets
• Achieving your short and long-term financial goals
• Ensuring your retirement income will last
• Paying for escalating college education expenses
• Planning for long-term health care needs

Here are examples of how much you can save with regular contributions. It’s never too late to begin saving. Contact RCU Investment Services today for your no-cost, no obligation appointment.

The chart below shows how much money you can save with regular contributions. The example is based on a monthly salary of $3,500, starting a 401(k) plan with $1,000, and a 10% annual return on investment.
Monthly Contribution	Total After 25 Years	Total After 30 Years	Total After 35 Years
5%	$244,252	$415,422	$697,050
6%	$290,691	$494,539	$829,932
7%	$337,131	$573,656	$962,814
8%	$383,570	$652,774	$1,095,697
9%	$430,009	$731,891	$1,228,579
10%	$476.448	$811,008	$1,361,461
*Per the U.S. Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2005. Source: Bankrate.com. Figures quoted are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of past or future results for any specific investment. They may or may not include any consideration of the time value of money, inflation, fluctuation in principal, or, in many instances, taxes.

Whatever your income or stage of life, RCU's knowledgeable Financial Advisors can help build a road map to reach your financial goals, including:

Asset Allocation College Planning Personalized Financial Plans Mutual Funds Stocks

Annuities Bonds Retirement Plan Rollovers Retirement Planning and 401k Review Business Retirement Plans

Call today for a FREE, no obligation appointment with our knowledgeable and friendly Financial Advisors. You'll receive a complimentary financial plan containing your personal road map for financial success. We look forward to serving you!

Call Direct: (707) 576-5040
Toll Free: (800) 479-7928

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Member Education - Investments

At RCU, we're committed to providing Members with a wide range of educational information to assist you with reaching your financial goals and dreams. We encourage you to browse our articles, attend our FREE seminars and meet with one of our knowledgeable Financial Advisors to ensure your investment and retirement goals are on track. Find a list of articles here.

The CFS Financial Advisors at Redwood Credit Union offer options that complement the more traditional savings products offered at Redwood Credit Union. RCU's Financial Advisors can help you select the options that best match your investment goals and risk/reward levels. For added convenience, we can meet with you at any RCU branch location.

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