The Best ETF to Buy After the S&P 500's Record Close

Core Viewpoint - U.S. investors may be overlooking better investment opportunities in international stocks due to the fear of missing out on U.S. market gains, particularly as the S&P 500 reaches record highs [1][2] Group 1: International Exposure - Increasing international exposure is suggested as a safer and smarter alternative to investing more in the U.S. economy, as foreign stocks are currently trading at cheaper valuations and performing better [2][10] - The iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) is highlighted as a suitable vehicle for gaining international exposure [4] Group 2: Historical Performance - Historical data shows that foreign stocks outperformed the S&P 500 between 2002 and 2009, primarily due to a weaker U.S. dollar [5][6] - Analysts predict a potential reversal of the recent U.S. stock performance dominance, leading to a recovery in non-U.S. stocks [8][9] Group 3: Valuation Comparison - The S&P 500 is currently priced at 24.5 times trailing earnings and 23.6 times forward-looking earnings, which is high compared to the MSCI EAFE's 10-year average P/E of 14.2 and trailing-12-month P/E of 16.7 [12][14] - Analysts emphasize that international stocks are closer to their historical averages, suggesting greater price appreciation potential compared to overvalued U.S. stocks [14] Group 4: Diversification Strategy - Adding international exposure is recommended to shield portfolios from economic and political uncertainties in the U.S. [16] - The iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF includes quality foreign companies such as SAP, ASML, Nestlé, and Novartis, providing a diversified investment option [17]