At 76, I agree with the "low risk" thingy. I think I'm reasonably "savvy"about economics, but frankly, just don't understand how kicking the can down the road will ever return the US to prosperity. Amazed that Greece hasn't brought down the World economy.
So... I watched my good friend's portfolio go from $800,000 to $400,000... and now back up to $800,000+. He's positive in his own mind that eventually, he'll be ahead of the game. He's 12 years younger... I hope he's right.
Our policy, ever since retiring in 1989, has been to be safe. Cash in a coffee can in the back yard keeps us more calm than watching a $100,000 investment lose 20%. I'll add here, that we're relatively poor.
We're content with our 2001-2003 30 year IBonds... still yielding 6%, a small, untouched annuity yielding 4%, and some 5 yr. IRA CD's around the same.
No, we're not keeping up with inflation, but so far, so good with our retirement plan. We sleep well at night, and watch CNBC for interest purposes, feeling dumb, when the market rises, and smart, when it drops.
In short... looking long range, for younger folks who will be around for another 20 to 40 years... I worry about a 16 trillion dollar debt.
I don't give advice... Am used to being ridiculed for my miserly approach to security. I respect those who have "made it", and wish them well.
Those who come here, "Early Retirement"... are IMHO, the ones who will succeed in the coming years. The hours spent in learning from others, will be will be more productive, than basing future plans on winning the lottery.
So... I watched my good friend's portfolio go from $800,000 to $400,000... and now back up to $800,000+. He's positive in his own mind that eventually, he'll be ahead of the game. He's 12 years younger... I hope he's right.
Our policy, ever since retiring in 1989, has been to be safe. Cash in a coffee can in the back yard keeps us more calm than watching a $100,000 investment lose 20%. I'll add here, that we're relatively poor.
We're content with our 2001-2003 30 year IBonds... still yielding 6%, a small, untouched annuity yielding 4%, and some 5 yr. IRA CD's around the same.
No, we're not keeping up with inflation, but so far, so good with our retirement plan. We sleep well at night, and watch CNBC for interest purposes, feeling dumb, when the market rises, and smart, when it drops.
In short... looking long range, for younger folks who will be around for another 20 to 40 years... I worry about a 16 trillion dollar debt.
I don't give advice... Am used to being ridiculed for my miserly approach to security. I respect those who have "made it", and wish them well.
Those who come here, "Early Retirement"... are IMHO, the ones who will succeed in the coming years. The hours spent in learning from others, will be will be more productive, than basing future plans on winning the lottery.
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