Deciding when to buy a stock is often easier than determining when to sell. As you're reviewing your portfolio at year-end, consider these situations that may indicate the right time to sell.

When There Are No Tax Consequences. If you hold stock in a retirement fund, you may want to reap gains with no tax impact.

To Take Money Off The Table. If a stock has had a nice run, you could sell a portion to recoup part of your investment. You can continue to invest in the stock but with locked-in gains.

A Shift In Fundamentals. Consider selling if the economy changes or an entire industry becomes vulnerable due to negative news.

When You've Given Up On A Stock. If a stock has been declining or flat-lining for an extended period, selling low now can save you from having to sell even lower later on.

To Take A Contrarian Position. If the market has gotten frothy and all the news is optimistic, choosing to harvest your gains could be a wise move.

When Cash Becomes Attractive. A gloomy economic outlook could be reason to increase your cash reserves.

Having a disciplined selling strategy means giving as much thought to the sale of a stock as to the purchase. Contact us. We're here to help.