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This is the heart of the system. The approach I use and teach is called Core and Explore.

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Core and Explore

• Core (usually 70 to 100%): broad, low-cost ETFs. This does the heavy lifting. It's boring on purpose.
• Explore (usually 0 to 30%): individual stocks you have researched and believe in. This is where you learn, have fun and try to add extra return, without betting your future on it.

The core protects you from yourself. Even if every stock you pick disappoints, your core keeps growing with the market.

Three example portfolios

These are illustrations to show the structure, not recommendations. Choose based on your time horizon and how you would honestly feel watching your money drop.

Calm (for people who hate swings or need money in 5 to 10 years)

• 60% global stock ETF
• 30% bond ETF
• 10% cash or individual stocks

Balanced (the most common starting point for long-term beginners)

• 70% global stock ETF
• 10% bond ETF
• 20% individual stocks (Explore)

Growth (10+ years, stable income)