The only decision that moves the needle

Choosing between funds barely matters. Choosing how much of your money sits in stocks rather than bonds decides almost everything — both how fast it grows and how far it falls along the way.

Stocks have returned roughly 6.8% a year above inflation over the last century and have lost more than 40% in a single year. Bonds return about 2% and are far steadier. There is no correct answer, only a trade-off you have to be able to live through. This tool shows the range of outcomes for any mix, and what six real crashes would have done to it.

Retirely — free retirement planning tools. Nothing is stored and no figure you enter leaves your browser. Educational only, not financial advice.