In this video, we're going to take a look at a 3 Fund Portfolio and Target Date Fund to determine where each of them comes out ahead and where they fall short.

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A 3 fund portfolio is a popular investment strategy that aims to offer broad diversification with just three index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This approach is admired for its simplicity and effectiveness.

Diversification- With these three funds, you're spreading your investment across thousands of different stocks and bonds. This diversification helps to reduce the risk of a poor-performing company or sector significantly affecting your overall returns.

Asset Allocation- The proportion of your investment in each of the three funds determines your portfolio's overall risk and expected return.

Rebalancing- Over time, as the value of your investments rises and falls, your portfolio's allocation can drift from your desired mix. To maintain your intended allocation, you periodically sell assets that make up a too-large percentage of your portfolio and buy those that make up too small a percentage.

Simplicity- One of the main appeals of the 3-fund portfolio is its simplicity. By holding just three funds, it's easy to monitor, rebalance, and manage. Plus, it avoids the pitfall of overcomplicating things, which can lead to analysis paralysis for many investors.

Low Costs- The funds recommended for a 3-fund portfolio are often passively managed index funds or ETFs, which tend to have lower expense ratios than actively managed funds. Over time, these savings can compound, leading to better net returns.

Global Exposure- With just the U.S. and International stock funds, you're exposed to virtually the entire global stock market. This means that if a particular region or country is performing well, you'll have a stake in it.

A target date fund starts with a mix of investments that leans towards higher returns but with a higher risk, like stocks. As you get closer to the "target date" (typically the year you intend to retire), the fund slowly adjusts, moving to safer assets like bonds, to protect what you've earned. The goal is to maximize growth when you have time on your side and to protect your gains as you approach retirement.

Asset Allocation Over Time- The main characteristic of a target date fund is its shifting allocation between equity and fixed income. Early on, when the target date is many years away, the fund tends to be weighted more heavily towards riskier assets like stocks because they have the potential for higher returns. As the target date approaches, the fund automatically rebalances and shifts its weighting towards more conservative assets like bonds and cash equivalents, aiming to preserve the wealth that's been built up.

Ease of Use- One of the primary benefits of target date funds is their simplicity for investors. By choosing a fund with a target date that matches their expected retirement year, investors get a diversified portfolio that automatically adjusts its risk profile over time. This can be especially appealing to individuals who prefer a hands-off investment approach.

Fund Fees- Like all mutual funds, target date funds charge fees. These fees can vary widely depending on the provider and the specific funds chosen within the target date fund. It's essential to be aware of these fees as they can impact the overall return on investment.

Differences Among Providers- While the general concept of the target date fund remains consistent, the actual asset allocation, glide path, and underlying investments can differ significantly among providers.

Post-Target Date- Some target date funds don't just stop adjusting once the target date is reached. Instead, they continue to become more conservative for several years after the target date, reflecting the ongoing needs of retirees.

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Disclaimer: This video is for entertainment purposes only. Everyone's situation is different so do your own research before making any decisions with your money.