I’ve lost over 50% in a little more over a year and, adjusted for inflation, the stocks have returned NOTHING over the last 23 years.
Everyone says stocks are for the long term – 23 years is not long term?
Do we need to reevaluate the whole concept of investments? Are they just a giant scam?
Also, in 15 years the public debt may reach its critical mass – might it be smart to buy precious metals?
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September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
S&P 500 has returned just over 9% on an annualized basis over the past 23 years. That is greater than 3-4% average inflation. As far as selling goes it all depends on your situation.
September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
Those are decisions that only you can make.
September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
All of these are very real fears and very good points!
September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
The key factor for performance for a portfolio over the long term is the overall allocation, not the specific stock or purchase timing. This is based on research performed on US index funds at least twice in the last few decades.
Should you liquidate ? It depends on your investment horizon and your portfolio allocation. However, you first must understand the allocation and your investment objectives and horizon. If you are liquidating and don’t know your current situation, then I would suggest to reconsider and look at your situation quickly and carefully.
Also, I would consider looking at ETFs as opposed to index/mutual funds, especially if you are investing only in Indices. Even if you are with Vanguard, the charges with mutual funds will exceed ETFs…and there is of course a tax advantage with ETFs as opposed to index/mutual funds.
In terms of precious metals, generally I would imagine an overall flight to quality may be a good bet. But once again, the key is looking at your overall asset allocation to determine how much exposure you should have to international investments, precious metals, bonds or whatever.
Good Luck
September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
There is no need to liquidate your funds now. Like the others have said, stick to your allocation. It seems like you are probably overly aggressive if you lost 50%. You need to have some sort of bond exposure to give you some sort of market protection.
Also keep in mind that the stock market is at a very low point and could shoot up quickly if some type of good news comes through like it has done in the past.
I would keep your precious metal % down. Gold is high right now even though people are expecting it to go above 1000.
I have a free blog that may be of help to you. There isn’t much content right now but I will be updating frequently.
http://www.investingsmarttipsforbeginners.blogspot.com
September 12th, 2010 at 1:32 am
NOW you want to sell?
Whatever the "critical mass," you have learned absolutely nothing about finance & investing if you think the correct choice is to sell something at a 25 year low to buy something at a 25 year high.