How Starting Index publishes and maintains its research.
Starting Index is founder-built and founder-operated. These standards describe how Jerrod Finn creates, reviews, labels, and updates the platform's research and educational material.
Keep record types separate
Backtests, reconstructed history, and forward-tracked platform results are identified separately because they provide different kinds of evidence.
Show where facts come from
Educational guides link to primary or authoritative sources when outside facts support the explanation. Starting Index records link to the platform's own method and evidence.
Check claims against artifacts
Model descriptions, dates, benchmark comparisons, and performance statements should agree with the published artifacts and audit trail.
Fix errors without hiding history
Material record changes should be dated and documented. Editorial errors should be corrected promptly rather than preserved for appearance.
- A named author and publication date on investor guides.
- Clear distinctions between individual stocks, funds, and model portfolios.
- Visible limitations alongside performance and research claims.
- Links to method, evidence, audit records, and relevant outside sources.
- Personalized recommendations for an investor's complete financial situation.
- A promise of future returns or consistent benchmark outperformance.
- Third-party performance verification unless explicitly stated.
- Brokerage execution, custody, tax, legal, or financial-planning services.
Use the contact page to report a potential error or request clarification. Review the audit page for publication timing, artifact freshness, benchmark metadata, and source hashes.