‘I want safe returns’: I’m 73 with $300,000 saved. I’m not interested in the stock market. What should I do?

Core Insights - The individual has $300,000 in a retirement account and seeks safe investment options outside the stock market due to a low-risk tolerance and the need for liquidity within one to two years [1][3]. Investment Options - It is recommended to split the $300,000 into three segments: 1. $100,000 in very low-risk and highly liquid options such as high-yield savings accounts, money-market funds, or short-term government bills for immediate access [4]. 2. $100,000 in short-term bond funds or a short CD/Treasury ladder for a two to five-year horizon [4]. 3. $100,000 in longer-term government bonds for a five-year or longer investment period [4]. Risk Management - At the age of 73, the individual is advised to be cautious with investments, especially considering the upcoming Required Minimum Distributions from the retirement account [5]. - The 70/30 rule suggests maintaining 70% of the portfolio in bonds and 30% in stocks for capital preservation, which may shift as the individual ages [6]. Investment Preferences - The individual is advised to avoid the stock market and focus on generating steady income through safer options like CDs and high-yield savings accounts, with the latter offering more liquidity [7].