I'm in agreement with Richard here, it's not possessions OR experiences. Some folks garner tangible value from possessions (I'm thinking Porsches, which doesn't necessarily apply to me). I'm in the process of moving, so have been organizing (read: throwing out) a lot of possessions collected over a 30 year span. And while I don't view myself (nor do others) as particularly materialistic, I'll happily admit to coming across long forgotten possessions that when found have brought me a lot of happiness as the memories they stir. This TBH is in distinction to my SO, who is almost opposite in her attachment to old things (she simply views them as old). But what I try to apply, both in possessions and experiences, is a version of Marie Kondo, "does this possession/experience bring you joy?" That's been a terrific barometer for me in making the qualitative aspects of a decision.
Even anticipating this day, I was a bit surprised to be as emotional about the passing of someone who I've never met except for the occasional online interchange. But then again, it was a nearly 30 year "relationship," and one I credit for significant material benefit. Condolences to Elaine, Jon's family, and the larger personal finance family that looked to Jon as a source of trusted advice. RIP.
Like many, I've followed along with you since the Wall St. Journal days, and am of very similar age, so that this is sobering and disheartening news indeed is a vast understatement. This audience has expressed our appreciation for your writing previously, and your curation of the website has expanded the world of experience and expertise in all matters of personal finance. But this is a different journey altogether, one without necessarily a "right" or a "best" answer. But know your audience will be with you along the way.
Maybe not providing the full diversification benefits, but my international exposure is through companies with a global footprint, but US- or UK-based.
Comments
I'm in agreement with Richard here, it's not possessions OR experiences. Some folks garner tangible value from possessions (I'm thinking Porsches, which doesn't necessarily apply to me). I'm in the process of moving, so have been organizing (read: throwing out) a lot of possessions collected over a 30 year span. And while I don't view myself (nor do others) as particularly materialistic, I'll happily admit to coming across long forgotten possessions that when found have brought me a lot of happiness as the memories they stir. This TBH is in distinction to my SO, who is almost opposite in her attachment to old things (she simply views them as old). But what I try to apply, both in possessions and experiences, is a version of Marie Kondo, "does this possession/experience bring you joy?" That's been a terrific barometer for me in making the qualitative aspects of a decision.
Post: Allan Roth’s 2/13/26 article references Jonathan Clements
Link to comment from March 8, 2026
Great tribute post, and well deserved. RIP Jon.
Post: Tributes to Jonathan Clements
Link to comment from September 27, 2025
Even anticipating this day, I was a bit surprised to be as emotional about the passing of someone who I've never met except for the occasional online interchange. But then again, it was a nearly 30 year "relationship," and one I credit for significant material benefit. Condolences to Elaine, Jon's family, and the larger personal finance family that looked to Jon as a source of trusted advice. RIP.
Post: Farewell Friends
Link to comment from September 23, 2025
Like many, I've followed along with you since the Wall St. Journal days, and am of very similar age, so that this is sobering and disheartening news indeed is a vast understatement. This audience has expressed our appreciation for your writing previously, and your curation of the website has expanded the world of experience and expertise in all matters of personal finance. But this is a different journey altogether, one without necessarily a "right" or a "best" answer. But know your audience will be with you along the way.
Post: The C Word
Link to comment from June 16, 2024
Insightful as always. Look forward to reading the book.
Post: Learned Along the Way
Link to comment from April 25, 2023
Maybe not providing the full diversification benefits, but my international exposure is through companies with a global footprint, but US- or UK-based.
Post: What percentage of a stock portfolio should be invested abroad?
Link to comment from April 7, 2021