Core Viewpoint - The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF is highlighted as a robust investment option, particularly during market volatility, and is recommended for long-term holding to prepare for potential market downturns [1][2]. Group 1: ETF Characteristics - The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF aims to replicate the performance of the entire stock market, encompassing 3,527 stocks across all market sectors, providing significant diversification [4][5]. - Since its inception in 2001, the ETF has achieved total returns of nearly 486%, indicating its potential for substantial wealth accumulation over time [6]. - The ETF has an average annual return of just over 9% since launch, suggesting that consistent small investments can lead to significant long-term gains [7]. Group 2: Risk and Return - The Total Stock Market ETF is considered one of the lower-risk investment options, making it suitable for investors focused on minimizing risk during market downturns [4][10]. - A key drawback is that broad-market funds like this ETF can only earn average returns, as they are designed to track the market rather than outperform it [8]. - For investors seeking above-average returns, growth ETFs may be more appropriate, despite their higher risk and volatility [9].