Key Points Index funds make investing easy. They can help you target growth, income, or both. Consider spreading your dollars across several funds. 10 stocks we like better than Vanguard S&P 500 ETF › As you save and invest for retirement, perhaps aiming for $1 million, be sure to invest your hard-earned dollars effectively. Take on too little risk, and you'll likely end up with a slow-growing portfolio. Take on too much risk -- such as with penny stocks or by day-trading or investing on margin - ...

Core Insights - The iShares Global Timber & Forestry ETF (WOOD) has underperformed, down nearly 8% year to date, making it one of the laggards among global ETFs [4][5] - The ETF, which tracks the S&P Global Timber & Forestry Index, has a market capitalization of $226.3 million and has been affected by a downturn in the residential real estate market [5][6] - Despite recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, lower mortgage rates have not significantly boosted home sales, further impacting lumber demand [7][9] Performance Analysis - The Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT) has increased by 21.39% this year, highlighting the poor performance of the timber ETF in comparison [2] - The timber ETF's performance is compounded by rising home delistings and canceled purchase agreements, indicating a lack of agreement between buyers and sellers [9] Market Dynamics - High interest rates have led homeowners to avoid borrowing for home repairs, which is a primary source of lumber demand [6][7] - The ETF's individual holdings, such as Weyerhaeuser, may present value opportunities, as it is trading below the value of its timberland [11] Future Outlook - Potential changes in monetary policy, including the retirement of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, could lead to easier monetary conditions and possibly stimulate the housing market [10] - For the ETF to rebound in 2026, it will require both favorable market conditions and investor confidence in its holdings [11]

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]