How should my spouse and I coordinate risk tolerance if we disagree about how aggressive to be?

First, treat your combined accounts as one household portfolio rather than two separate ones, so you're designing a single allocation together. When risk tolerances differ, the practical compromise is to land somewhere between your two comfort levels, but weighted toward the more cautious partner, because the real danger is that a nervous spouse panic-sells at the bottom, which hurts you both.

Have the conversation in calm markets, not during a crash. Walk through concrete scenarios: 'If our $200,000 dropped to $130,000, how would each of us feel and act?' Sometimes the more anxious partner just needs a bigger cash buffer or a clear written plan to feel safe with more stocks. The Investor Profile assessment at wealthserene.com/assessments/investor-profile can give you each a starting point to discuss. A slightly more conservative mix you both hold through a downturn beats an aggressive one that blows up your marriage and your returns.