Core Insights - Both US and international markets have performed well in 2025, highlighting the importance of global diversification for long-term investors [1][2] - Investing across multiple countries allows investors to benefit from gains in some markets while mitigating losses in others [2] ETF Analysis - Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT) holds nearly 10,000 stocks from over two dozen countries, with an annual fee of just six basis points [3][4] - This ETF tracks the Footsie Global All Cap Index, which includes stocks of all sizes and is market cap weighted, focusing more on larger companies [4][5] - The ETF has shown resilience, cushioning losses during US stock declines by benefiting from surges in international markets [6] Risk Management - Isar's MCI Global Minimum Volatility Factor ETF aims to limit volatility while investing across more than two dozen countries, charging 20 basis points annually and earning a silver Morning Star Metalist rating [7][8] - This ETF employs a holistic view of volatility and risk, ensuring a focus on low volatility without compromising performance [8] Bond Investment - JP Morgan International Bond Opportunities ETF (JPIB) is actively managed, charging 50 basis points annually, and is designed for risk-conscious bond investors [9][10] - The fund limits US exposure to 20% of the portfolio, allowing for a broader global investment strategy [10] - Over the last five years, this ETF has outperformed both the category average and the category index, demonstrating effective risk management [11]