Building Your Shield

A diversified portfolio can include U.S. stocks, international stocks, bonds, cash equivalents, and optional diversifiers such as TIPS, REITs, or commodities. The right mix depends on time horizon, income stability, taxes, goals, risk tolerance, and existing accounts. Instead of copying a percentage table, decide what job each asset has: growth, stability, inflation protection, liquidity, or behavioral comfort. A sample allocation can teach structure, but it should not be treated as a recommendation.