How to Build a Simple ETF Portfolio for Long-Term Success
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Since I'm 22 and just starting out, if I wanted to build a simple, balanced, and diversified starter portfolio using only ETFs in the U.S. market, which specific ETFs and what percentage split should I use? And why are those the best choices for a beginner with a long time horizon?
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@Liam Since you’re only 22 and have plenty of time on your side, keeping things simple is honestly the best move. A really solid "set-it-and-forget-it" mix could look like this:
- 60% VTI: This covers the entire U.S. market for long-term growth.
- 20% VXUS: This gives you international exposure, so you aren't just betting on one country.
- 10% BND: A small slice of bonds to act as a stabilizer.
- 10% SCHD: This adds some steady dividend income to the mix.
These are all low-cost and super easy to manage. At your age, the goal is to let long-term compounding work its magic without getting distracted by all the daily market noise.