An insightful discussion with Ira Koyner on how to maximize returns through reducing volatility & tax efficiency

In this thought-provoking episode of Influential Entrepreneurs, Ira Koyner returns to challenge long-standing assumptions that lowering volatility of your portfolio means accepting lower returns.  

Long-Term Tax-Efficient Investing Through Product Diversification

Long-term tax-efficient investing is about building a portfolio that can handle volatility, protect against losses, and reduce taxes. Ira Koyner explains how product diversification isn’t just about mixing asset classes—it’s about choosing tools that work together to protect your wealth while allowing for compounding growth.

“Taxes are really the number one cut in after inflation on people’s retirement spending,” Koyner notes early in the conversation. This underscores why he believes selecting the right products—like RILAs and structured notes—is critical to improving long-term outcomes.

The Power of Diversification

Koyner emphasizes that reducing portfolio volatility leads to fewer and smaller losses, which strengthens compounding over time.

“If you can reduce the losses, the number of losses and the size of losses… you’re really going to be very happy,” 

Lower volatility also helps clients avoid emotional decisions during downturns and stick with their long-term plans.

Tax-Efficient Tools: RILAs & Structured Notes

Two standout strategies are Registered Index Linked Annuities (RILAs) and structured notes:

RILAs offer downside protection through a zero floor or buffer, and allow for tax-deferred growth. “Down 0, up 18% is much better,” Ira says, highlighting the peace of mind these vehicles offer during turbulent markets.

Structured Notes offer a barrier against loss (e.g., 30%) and a participation multiplier—amplifying upside returns while still offering protection. “You can’t get anything better than that,” Ira adds, referencing a scenario where a 1.5x multiplier boosts a 40% market return to 60%.

Tax Awareness and Strategic Timing

Many investors misinterpret their 401(k) and IRA balances, assuming those funds are fully theirs.

“One third of that money is the federal government’s,” 

He urges clients to adopt a tax-aware mindset and take action proactively—not just during tax season. Strategic moves like Roth conversions in low-income years and maximizing 401(k) contributions in high-income years can result in substantial long-term savings.

He also introduces the use of life insurance to create tax-free retirement income and reduce estate tax exposure.

“You can essentially take money out of a life insurance policy without having to pay taxes,” 

These techniques, when tailored properly, can help high-net-worth individuals pass more wealth to heirs and increase after-tax cash flow during retirement.

Managing Volatility Without Missing Out

Rather than trying to time the market—which Ira calls “impossible to do”—he urges investors to embrace disciplined, diversified strategies.

“You can turn volatility into your friend.”

Properly structured portfolios allow clients to stay invested during downturns, take advantage of dips, and recover faster.

Building long-term wealth requires more than just diversification by asset class—it requires product diversification that reduces volatility and minimizes taxes. Tools like RILAs and structured notes provide downside protection and tax-efficient growth, helping investors stay invested during downturns and maximize compounding. Understanding the true tax burden of accounts like 401(k)s and integrating strategies like life insurance and Roth conversions can significantly boost after-tax retirement income.