“My CD just matured. Now what?”
That was the opening line from a client who called me last week. His CD had come due, and now he had a choice to make.
Should he roll the money into another CD? Put more into stocks? Or, his latest idea, jump into artificial intelligence investments dominating the headlines?
On the surface, it looked like a routine question. But really, it was about something bigger: how to balance growth, safety, and excitement when a new opportunity comes along.
Thinking About AI the Right Way
When evaluating retirement investments: CDs, stocks, or AI, the real question is whether the choice aligns with your goals.
AI is everywhere, and many investors feel they should “do something.” But smart investing isn’t about chasing trends, it’s about aligning your portfolio with your goals, risk tolerance, and long-term view.
In this client’s case, his 65% equity exposure already suited his timeline and comfort level. The decision wasn’t whether to add more stocks overall, but whether to reposition some existing holdings into AI-focused investments he believed in.
This approach kept his portfolio balanced while letting him lean into areas he was excited about, thoughtfully, not impulsively.
Balancing Stability and Growth
After reviewing his needs, we put the proceeds from the matured CD into a 12-month CD paying over 4%, keeping 35% of his portfolio stable while leaving his stock allocation intact.
To create room for AI, we sold a few stock positions he no longer had conviction in and redirected those dollars into carefully chosen opportunities. This way, he pursued growth without increasing overall risk.
Striking a balance among retirement investments: CDs, stocks, or AI helps investors stay secure while pursuing new opportunities.
The Israeli Tech Angle
He was also intrigued by Israel’s booming defense and tech sectors, where AI innovation is accelerating. Instead of buying Israeli mutual funds, which can be tax-heavy for Americans, we used U.S.-based index funds focused on Israeli innovation.
This gave him exposure to leading companies, including those developing AI-driven defense systems, without unnecessary tax headaches.
Every Dollar Needs a Job
Whether it’s CDs for income, stocks for growth, or AI for calculated opportunity, every dollar should have a clear purpose. Some protect your lifestyle, others grow your wealth, and a few can chase the areas you believe hold the most promise.
Not sure what your dollars are doing?
Let’s talk. I help Americans living in Israel manage their U.S. brokerage and IRA accounts. Schedule your free Cross-Border Financial Evaluation today.
Douglas Goldstein, CFP® is the director of Profile Investment Services, Ltd. www.Profile-Financial.com. He is a licensed financial professional both in the U.S. and Israel. Call (02) 624-2788 for a consultation on how to set up your American assets to meet your financial goals. Securities offered through Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC, MSRB, FSI. The opinions expressed are those of the author and not those of Portfolio Resources Group, Inc. or its affiliates. Neither PRG nor its affiliates provide tax or legal advice.
Published October 1, 2025.