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Thanks for your patience on today’s newsletter issue. There was a snowstorm last night which caused a bit of a delay. Everything’s all good now so let’s kick it off:

Choosing the right partner is the most important financial decision you can make.

… And what better time to talk about relationships than the week of Valentine’s Day?

Money is the #1 factor leading to divorce, and the impact of a costly breakup goes far beyond your bank account. Financial stress can drain you emotionally, socially, and impact your mental health too.

So in honor of the day of love, I wanted to share 3 “money topics” you should discuss with your partner to avoid breaking your heart and your bank account.

(sorry in advance if this causes any fights)

What’s the current picture?

First, you need to understand what you’re working with. 42% of adults admit to financial infidelity—hiding debt, spending, or entire bank accounts.

Some key things you need to be aware about are:

• Income – Sets the foundation for budgeting and financial planning.

• Debt – Affects future goals like buying a home or saving together.

• Savings – Shows financial habits.

• Major Expenses – Helps understand lifestyle.

• Credit Score – Impacts loans, interest rates, and major purchases

You can set up a simple table to track this information. 

But look — I get it, laying it all out feels… vulnerable, but this isn’t about judgment. It’s about avoiding nasty surprises. The sooner you start talking about money, the easier it gets.

How are you splitting expenses?

Now that you know where you both stand financially, it’s time to talk logistics. 

Here are 3 common ways couples split expenses:

There’s no right or wrong choice here — look through the pros and cons and pick a method that works for the both of you. Then set up the proper accounts, and automate transfers. The less you have to think about it, the better.

What about the future?

Your partner should feel like… a partner. 

They should be someone who’s got your back and is hustling with you toward the same goals, so make sure you’re aligned on:

• Short-term goals – What do you want to achieve in the next 1–2 years? (Paying off debt, saving for a trip)

• Long-term dreams –  Homeownership, retirement, career plans.

• Any deal-breakers – What are your financial non-negotiables? (Risky investments, lending money to family and friends)

I know these conversations aren’t “sexy” for current (and future) lovebirds but here’s how I make it more fun.

Every year, my girlfriend and I rent a library room, bring snacks (a lot of them), and map out our financial and life goals. After we celebrate with dinner at a nice restaurant.

We turn our “boring discussions” into a fun date night that we look forward to.

That said, maybe hold off until after Valentine’s Day. Save this email so you can reference it in the future.

I know, money talks aren’t the most romantic, but if you want to reach your financial goals, your partner plays a big role.

To making smarter money moves,

— Vincent Chan

New Youtube video

There are 7 levels of wealth— where do you fall? In this video, I’ll help you figure out where you stand and, if you don’t like the answer, how to start moving up.

My favorite things this week

Severance TV Show – If you’re looking for another TV show (since Silo season 2 is over), Severance is definitely up there. It’s a psychological thriller about office workers who undergo a procedure to split their work and personal memories, creating separate 2 separate identities. Season 2 just started so consider checking it out.

Affordable Valentines Day Flowers — Here’s my favorite place to get affordable for Valentine’s day. See the first comment for the answer.

PS: I want to hear from you! Want to see more (or less) of this content? Let me know your feedback here

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