A HORSE WITH “KNOW” NAME.
KNOW; this is theQ
To KNOW,
or not to
UESTION.
Story and Photos By
Thomas Cooper, CFP®
Many of us in Central Florida have a great life and passion
for the equine industry. This is readily seen on our
interstate as trucks passing by showcase the glorious
nature animal. In fact, on occasion, you can sense a spirit
of pride through the white fences along Florida’s highways.
Even the traffic during fesvies such as World
Equestrian Center, Ocala Breeders Sales, Hits, and
Parade of Naons events oen pack our local towns.
Did you know, the Equine Industry in Central Florida alone
is understood to be a multi-billion-dollar industry. In other
words, “the cash is pouring into central Florida.“ According
to Tammy Gant, associate VP of the Florida Thoroughbred
Breeders and Owners Association, “It’s hard to believe it’s
only been 20 years since the Horse Capital of the World®
was trademarked when it was discovered Ocala, in Marion
County, has more horses than any other county in the U.S.”
Additionally, it doesn’t seem feasible that one could imagine
the dollar amount each of us spends on this incredible
passion. I’m certain many of you can think of monthly
expenditures, tickets to horse shows, family housing, and
for some, medication - where the word “expensive” is not
absent.
But what about some who share this great passion, yet do
not actually own a horse? How is it these folks can also take
part of such a promising industry. Often times they progress
toward retirement they wish to diversify their wealth - while
maintaining a relationship without the risk of betting. The
question then becomes: is this possible?
In fact, even the Healthcare Industry has taken significant
investment in the Equine Industry. Examples of this are
seen in countless research logs of Equine Therapy, where
multiple therapy centers are being set up in central Florida
for those who deal with stress, anxiety, and severe trauma.
Apparently, not only is the Equine Industry and incredible
financial opportunity, it is improving the health of thousands
of people who have been affected by depression and
anxiety. Crystal Fernung, from Journeyman Stallions also
maintains the healing power of this type of therapy, “We
are finding that horses are starting to prove, that much like
our domestic cats and dogs, they can help people heal
physically, mentally, and emotionally.” In other words, continuing
to invest in our industry improves the lives of people
from a medical standpoint. According to a study in 2018
research also shows “horse therapy can calm emotions
and people with anxieties.”1
Fortune 500 companies such as Tractor Supply, Merck, and
General Dynamics, as well as John Deere equipment, and
Archer Daniels Midland impact the Equine passion. Companies
as these poor millions of dollars into Central Florida’s
Equine industry with regard to pharmaceutical products,
horse carriages, horse feed, heavy machinery, tools, land,
insurance, finance, and even transportation of horses
themselves.
Considering this, as an investment, themed portfolios
were designed to offer cost efficiency, transparency; an
alternative to traditional mutual and annuity funds. These
accounts could be designed to closely match a person’s
passion, such as our industry; Central Florida’s Equine Industry.
However, what does this mean and how does it relate
to your objectives?
To know: you can now invest directly into this passion in the
EQUINE industry with an investment that trades on the New
York Stock Exchange. Why does this matter? As stated earlier
those desiring to hang onto their passion as they age
into retirement may be looking for alternative ways to grow
their resources that are linked to our incredible industry.
For quite some time many of us did not know of the potential
of this specific industry - and how we can continue to
support Florida’s cherished horses. This is how I choose to
support my passion and possibly yours too.
To know, or not to know: As a resident of Central Florida,
and as an investor, I have often thought how I might stay
focused on this industry. In fact, my wife and I maintain
a home just across the highway from a well-known horse
farm. Each morning when I arise, I see and hear this glorious
animal that reminds me every day where my true investment
lies. It is not necessarily
in the value of the dollar,
but in the beauty, integrity,
and dignity of our industry.
1 Turner, Mandi J. “Horses in Therapy: The Practice of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy.” (2018).
88 www.EliteEquestrianMagazine.com
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