2 Vanguard ETFs to Buy With $2,000 and Hold Forever

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the simplicity and effectiveness of using two Vanguard ETFs for a long-term investment portfolio, making it suitable for both novice and experienced investors [2][6]. ETF Structure and Benefits - Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are described as pooled investment vehicles that offer liquidity and simplicity, trading like stocks while providing diversified investments similar to mutual funds [3]. - Vanguard ETFs are noted for their low expense ratios, with the highlighted ETFs having an expense ratio of just 0.03%, making them cost-effective compared to mutual funds and financial planners [5]. Recommended ETFs - The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is highlighted as a straightforward investment that tracks the S&P 500 index, representing the largest and most significant U.S. companies [7][8]. - The Vanguard Intermediate-Term Bond ETF (BIV) focuses on high-quality bonds with maturities of five to ten years, providing a balanced yield-to-volatility ratio in the fixed income space [9]. Portfolio Construction - A balanced portfolio typically consists of a mix of stocks and bonds, with a common allocation being 60% stocks and 40% bonds, though this can be adjusted based on individual risk tolerance [10]. - An example is provided where a $2,000 investment could be allocated as $1,200 in the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF and $800 in the Vanguard Intermediate-Term Bond ETF, with annual rebalancing suggested to maintain the target allocation [11]. Long-term Management - Investors are advised to periodically reassess their risk tolerance and adjust their stock-bond mix accordingly, with a focus on maintaining the desired allocation over time [12][13].