For absolute security, a Treasury money-market fund. Or, if you won’t need the cash within the year, a short-term bond fund.
He’s trying. Tuesday’s expected rate cut may make a difference. The stock market is hoping he’ll help out with a cut larger than 50 basis points. On the other hand, if he goes all the way to 100 points, he’ll be sending an emergency signal, which could scare investors even more.
That depends on your age. Until your mid-40s, you should have no more than 10 percent of your portfolio in bonds. That jumps to 20 percent at the age of 50. Retirees need as much as 40 percent of their holdings in bonds and cash.
Absolutely. Hold at least 15 to 20 percent of a portfolio in foreign-stock funds.
What goes down may not go up. Cling to your favorites, but justify your affection. Are you holding leaders with good cash flow and balance sheets?
You should never have owned much. Diversify. You’re already dependent enough on your employer. How would you like to lose your salary and see your nest egg decline at the same time?
The conventional wisdom points to drugs and health care.
