Larry SwedroeDo TIPS really keep up with real inflation? The most important thing to remember is that TIPS provide a guaranteed real return. While this might be a bit complex, here are two ways TIPS can provide you with a guaranteed real return, which I will outline below. In addition, I have included relevant information about … Read more
There is a limit which is set by the IRS every year for both Roth and Traditional IRA accounts. The current IRA contribution limits for those under 50 is $5,000 and for those over 50 it is $6,000. This allows for what is called a catch up. What is important in making the decision between … Read more
In this Ask the Expert with Larry Swedroe article, Thomas is wondering why his iShares Barclays TIPS Bond TIP ETF hasn’t paid dividend since last October and if he should switch to individual TIPS through Treasury Direct instead. Here’s the question from Thomas: I own the TIP ETF (iShares Barclays TIPS Bond). It has not … Read more
Is it best to get out of debt before you start investing? This is a common question that comes up quite often. The issue is actually fairly complex considering the many different types of debt and investment options available. In general, the answer is you should pay off your debt before investing. Here are some … Read more
None of the alternative investments provided sufficient risk reduction to soften the impact of the Bear Market. Alternatives such as Commodities, Equity REITS, International Equities doesn’t seem to be working. The U.S. Treasuries were one of the few asset classes that really provided sufficient diversification. What went wrong? First let’s address the question of “Diversification … Read more
One of my rules of prudent investing is that no one should own individual stocks. That has far more to do with speculating than investing. Instead own only mutual funds (or ETFs) that own all the stocks within a particular asset class (e.g., small caps, value stocks, emerging market stocks, etc.). Then build a globally … Read more
In this Ask The Expert With Larry Swedroe article, Zapp challenges the legitimacy of Modern Portfolio Theory citing Warren Buffett as a rule breaker. So which is it, Modern Portfolio Theory or Warren Buffett? Here’s the question from Zapp: Other than by taking the self-denigrating stance: “I am not an above average investor”, how can … Read more
In this Ask The Expert With Larry Swedroe article, the reader, Murali, is wondering if she could use the Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT) to simplify and diversify her investment portfolio. Vanguard is known for its high quality and low cost investment products, and the Total World Stock ETF should provide most of the … Read more
In this Ask The Expert With Larry Swedroe article, the reader (Edward) is wondering what’s the best way to rebalance his investment portfolio and increase his fixed asset allocation. Due to the stock market crash, he is reluctant to sell his beaten-down stocks to increase his bonds allocation. Is it better just to allocate new … Read more
In this Ask The Expert With Larry Swedroe article, the reader (Larry) lost a lot of money in the stock market. He detailed his plight and complained about his full service brokerage firm. It’s 2009 and he only have half of what he did a few months ago. What should he do? Here’s the question … Read more