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The 70/30 rule that separates millionaires from everyone else
Yahoo Finance· 2026-02-12 15:06
Core Insights - The article emphasizes a wealth-building strategy that is effective yet unexciting, focusing on the 70/30 asset allocation rule, which has been adopted by many retirement account millionaires [1][2]. Group 1: Wealth Accumulation Strategy - Approximately 654,000 individuals in the U.S. are classified as "401(k) millionaires," with their wealth primarily stemming from conservatively invested retirement accounts [2]. - The successful wealth accumulation pattern involves saving consistently and investing with a 70% allocation in stocks for growth and 30% in bonds for stability [2][3]. - The 70/30 rule is presented as a counter to high-risk investment strategies, promoting a balanced approach that helps investors avoid panic selling during market downturns [3]. Group 2: Investment Approach - Successful investors typically utilize index funds, such as the Vanguard Total Stock Market fund (VTI) or the Nasdaq 100 (QQQ), rather than attempting to pick individual stocks [4]. - The focus is on long-term growth through the power of compound interest rather than short-term market timing [4]. Group 3: Automation in Wealth Building - Automation is highlighted as a crucial factor in wealth accumulation, with a "pay yourself first" system being a key differentiator between the wealthy and those living paycheck to paycheck [5].