Investment Review Checklist for 2026: What to Revisit and Why It Matters

An investment review isn’t about chasing performance or reacting to headlines—it’s about making sure your strategy still fits your life. As 2026 approaches, this is the ideal time to step back and review how your investments align with your goals, time horizon, and overall financial plan.

Start with allocation and risk exposure. Over time, markets shift portfolios in ways that may no longer match your comfort level or objectives. Rebalancing isn’t about predicting the market—it’s about maintaining discipline and intentionality.

Next, review account structure and tax efficiency. Investments don’t exist in isolation; where assets are held can be just as important as what you own. Coordinating taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts may help reduce unnecessary tax drag and improve after-tax outcomes over time.

Fees and investment costs deserve a fresh look as well. Even small expenses can compound into meaningful dollars over long periods. Reviewing fund expenses, advisory fees, and overall efficiency helps ensure you’re paying for value—not inertia.

Life changes matter too. A new job, retirement timeline shift, inheritance, health event, or change in income needs can all warrant adjustments. An investment strategy built for yesterday may not support tomorrow.

Finally, a 2026 investment review should connect investments to purpose. Are your portfolios supporting short-term needs, long-term growth, and legacy goals appropriately? Are expectations realistic given current conditions?

A thoughtful review provides clarity—not constant change. The goal is confidence, alignment, and forward momentum, so your investments continue working quietly and effectively in the background while you focus on living your life.