What Should My Ratio of Stocks to Bonds be Right Now?
Say goodbye to debt forever. Start Ramsey+ for free:
Visit the Dave Ramsey store today for resources to help you take control of your money!
Did you miss the latest Ramsey Show episode? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Get all the highlights you missed plus some of the best moments from the show. Watch debt-free screams, Dave Rants, guest interviews, and more!
Want to watch FULL episodes of The Ramsey Show? Make sure to go to The Ramsey Show (Full Episodes) at:
Check out the show at 4pm EST Monday-Friday or anytime on demand. Dave Ramsey and his co-hosts talking about money, careers, relationships, and how they impact your life. Tune in to The Ramsey Show and experience one of the most popular talk radio shows in the country!
Ramsey Network (Subscribe Now!)
• The Ramsey Show (Highlights):
• The Ramsey Show (Full Episodes):
• The Dr. John Delony Show:
• The Rachel Cruze Show:
• Anthony ONeal:
• The Ken Coleman Show:
• The Christy Wright Show:
• EntreLeadership: …(read more)
LEARN MORE ABOUT: Treasury Inflation Protected Securities
REVEALED: Best Investment During Inflation
HOW TO INVEST IN GOLD: Gold IRA Investing
HOW TO INVEST IN SILVER: Silver IRA Investing
What Should My Ratio of Stocks to Bonds be Right Now?
Determining the ideal ratio of stocks to bonds in your investment portfolio is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your financial well-being, especially during uncertain times. Various factors such as age, risk tolerance, and market conditions influence the allocation between stocks and bonds, which should be periodically reassessed to ensure you are on track to meet your financial goals. In this article, we will delve into the considerations that can help you establish the right ratio of stocks to bonds in the present market scenario.
Understanding Stocks and Bonds:
Before diving into how to determine the right allocation, it is important to grasp the fundamental differences between stocks and bonds. Stocks represent ownership in a company, providing investors with a share of profits and losses as the company’s value fluctuates. Bonds, on the other hand, are debt securities issued by corporations or governments that pay interest periodically, with the principal amount being repaid upon maturity.
Assessing Risk Tolerance:
One crucial aspect to consider when establishing your stocks-to-bonds ratio is your risk tolerance. Risk tolerance refers to your ability to withstand the ups and downs of the market without panicking or making rash decisions. If you have a higher risk tolerance and can handle greater volatility, you may opt for a larger allocation in stocks. Conversely, if you prefer more stability and are risk-averse, a higher percentage in bonds might be more suitable.
Time Horizon:
Another factor to evaluate is your time horizon – the length of time you intend to remain invested. Generally, individuals with a longer time horizon, such as those saving for retirement in their 20s or 30s, can afford to have a higher allocation in stocks since they have more time to recover from market downturns. Conversely, if you have a shorter time horizon, such as nearing retirement, a greater allocation in bonds can help you preserve capital and protect against potential market volatility.
Market Conditions:
The prevailing market conditions and economic outlook should also influence your decision regarding the stocks-to-bonds ratio. During a bull market characterized by optimism and upward trends, a higher allocation in stocks might be favorable. However, in a bear market or during periods of uncertainty and volatility, it may be prudent to increase your exposure to bonds to mitigate potential losses.
Diversification:
Diversification is a cornerstone of successful investing and can help reduce risk. By spreading investments across various asset classes, industries, and regions, you can potentially offset losses in one area with gains in another. Maintaining a balanced ratio of stocks to bonds within your portfolio aligns with this principle of diversification, reducing vulnerability to market fluctuations and increasing the potential for stable long-term returns.
Periodic Assessment and Rebalancing:
Your ideal stocks-to-bonds ratio may change over time due to changes in personal circumstances, risk appetite, and market conditions. Therefore, it is vital to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your current investment objectives. This involves selling or buying assets to bring your allocation back to the desired ratio. For instance, if stocks have performed well and now comprise a larger percentage of your portfolio, you may need to sell some stocks and purchase bonds to maintain the intended allocation.
In conclusion, determining the appropriate ratio of stocks to bonds in your investment portfolio requires careful consideration of factors such as risk tolerance, time horizon, market conditions, and the principles of diversification. By assessing these elements periodically and making necessary adjustments, you can maintain a balanced portfolio that aligns with your financial goals, helping you navigate both stable and volatile market periods. Remember, consulting a financial advisor can provide tailored guidance based on your unique circumstances, and considering their insights can be invaluable in optimizing your investment strategy.
Whatever happened to the hogan guy was he fired?
Dave was spot on but the interest rate risk can be reduced by using shorter term bonds. Now that rates are high it's a great time to buy 30 year bonds.
Who the heck is spending $160k for a degree?
It seems no one remembers interest rates of the 70's/80's.
Oops.
His College fund went down 25% since January Whoops
Thanks for all the really great information!
100% stonks at 29 y/o. Actually over 100% stocks cus I finaced my car, so im actually short bonds!
Did you diversify your staff or did the media lords MAKE YOU?
Sound advise at this time…The Vix doesnt really indicate major erosion in comparision to the early past we have come along way in rebuilding confidence.
I learned something amazing
My life before Dave: 87k debt, my life now: 2m net worth, paid for home- no debt
HE should be mostly cash and commodity fund.
If you’re in for the long term, 100% stocks no cash, stocks will always win long term
WOW, I love Dave! Was hoping he would say this!!!
“The Dave Ramsey Show” replies to comments on here are a troll, not really Dave. Don’t call or text the numbers. If the real Dave Ramsey can delete those replies, please do so people don’t call the scammer.
25% cash/ 75% stocks,
Imagine buying a bond lol
No point trying to squeeze more out of this account. Should have moved 100% to cash when this call was made. Now the "historic" 10% drop is in and it might not be so quick to rebound…
No US bonds, ever. The return is lower than real inflation and furthermore the assurance of payment is overkill. If you must have bonds, buy them from higher paying countries that are still solvent and will pay the coupon.
90% worldwide stock index, 10% precious metals index fund. When interest rates rise, transfer 10% from stocks into short-term bonds or equivalent to high-yield savings account.
Bond funds are not bonds. Bond funds and bonds you intend to actually sell before maturity surely behave as Dave has said. However, high quality individual bonds can be a stabilizer as they simply are what they are if the payer does not default and you ride them to maturity. That does not mean they are the best investment, as that locks you into a potentially bad interest rate.