A Beginner-Friendly ETF Portfolio That Requires Almost No Maintenance

Core Insights - The ETF marketplace offers easy and low-cost access to a wide range of investments, including stocks, bonds, commodities, and more [1] - There are over 4,000 ETFs available, which can be overwhelming for beginners, but with proper guidance, creating a diversified portfolio is achievable [2] - A simple stock/bond portfolio is recommended for beginners, with the option to diversify further over time [3] ETF Recommendations - The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is highlighted as a comprehensive investment option in U.S. stocks, covering over 3,500 companies with a low annual expense ratio of 0.03% [6] - The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF is a strong choice for those preferring large-cap investments, but the preference for a broader market exposure is noted [7] - The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is recognized for its strict stock selection process, focusing on financial health and dividend history, narrowing down to the top 100 stocks [8] - Dividend-paying stocks have shown the ability to enhance returns and reduce risk, providing stability and income to improve total returns [9]