International stocks roared back in 2025 with many major global indexes returning more than 20% last year. Some countries even gained more than 50%. That's not to say there's no more opportunity for international investors, though.As countries continue to focus on growth, and as government spending picks up around the world, supporting their local economies, there's plenty of opportunity left for stock market growth. Investors should be selective in choosing an international ETF. Avoid those with high fees, ...

Core Insights - The focus is on income-producing asset classes such as REITs, ETFs, Preferreds, and Dividend Champions, targeting premium dividend yields up to 10% [1][3] - The iREIT®+HOYA Capital service emphasizes sustainable portfolio income, diversification, and inflation hedging, with a recent shift in focus towards international stocks outperforming U.S. stocks for the first time since 2017 [2] Group 1 - The investment group iREIT®+HOYA Capital provides research and investment strategies aimed at achieving dependable monthly income and portfolio diversification [3] - The service offers exclusive income-focused portfolios that include various asset classes, specifically targeting high dividend yields [1][3] Group 2 - The article highlights the importance of income-focused investing, particularly in the context of current market conditions and the performance of international stocks [2] - The group aims to assist investors in preparing for retirement through various investment vehicles, including CEFs, ETFs, BDCs, and REITs [3]

Core Insights - Non-US markets represent 75% of the global economy, 90% of the IMF's expected GDP growth, and 95% of the world population, indicating significant investment opportunities outside the US [1] Group 1: Investment Strategy - The focus is on improving international stock strategies, highlighting the importance of diversifying investments beyond the US [1] - The Expat Portfolio offers resources such as frequent analysis, a watchlist, and market guides to assist investors in navigating foreign markets [2] Group 2: Analyst Background - Tariq Dennison, an experienced RIA, emphasizes the benefits of investing in diverse foreign markets, leveraging his extensive international experience [2] - The Expat Portfolio community provides direct access to expert insights and discussions, enhancing investor confidence in international investments [2]

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]