John and Mary attended a meeting on Retirement Planning. In the meeting they were in agreement that they were well short of the money they needed for retirement at John's age at 55. Mary said she was thinking of handling investments herself as John is not good with his past records. John thought that investing outside Pension would make sense and meet their financial needs when they retire. The couple live a lavish lifestyle. Marry has a friend who recommended to the couple that they will need a professional financial planner to assist them meet their financial goals. John disagreed to Mary's friend's recommendation.

a) Briefly outline one reason supporting Mary's idea of taking control of retirement investing

b) Briefly outline two alternatives to cover the expected shortfall in annual retirement saving.

c) As a financial planner explain all the steps you would take to help Mary and John meet their financial goals and objectives.

d) What is your opinion on John's view regarding pension and financial planning? Briefly outline to John the benefit and importance of pension and financial planning (