The Basis Northwest conference provided an unparalleled opportunity for wealth managers to understand advanced tax-deferment and tax-minimization investment strategies. But questions remain on the appropriateness of riskier strategies for many clients and how the inclusion of these strategies affects the larger investment strategy.

The sober case for adding bitcoin to a diversified portfolio remains challenging. At best, bitcoin remains a highly speculative investment increasingly correlated with the stock market that may eventually have real-world applications. But right now, the investment thesis remains very weak, especially relative to past and present game-changing technologies.

Successful do-it-yourself investing does not equal a successful life, and even wealthy, independently-minded DIY investors would benefit from going through a financial planning process to get a long-term strategy in place to meet their financial and life goals.