InvestmentPosted by Alex W. · 5d ago

ETF vs individual stocks for long-term investing?

I've run a split portfolio for 8 years — 70% ETFs (VTI, VXUS, BND) and 30% individual stocks. The result? My ETF sleeve outperformed my stock picks in 6 of 8 years. I spent hundreds of hours researching individual companies for minimal extra return. Unless you have an edge (industry insider knowledge, proprietary data), ETFs almost certainly win for the retail investor. Happy to share exact numbers and methodology.

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Comments (53)

Dan L.·1h ago

Great question! I started with $50/month in a Fidelity account buying FZROX (zero expense ratio). Two years later I bumped it to $200 and haven't looked back. Start simple, stay consistent.

Nina P.·45m ago

Robo-advisors are great for beginners — lower cognitive load. Once you understand the basics after 12–18 months, consider migrating to a self-directed brokerage. Betterment → Fidelity was my journey.

Chris W.·30m ago

The best investment is the one you actually make consistently. Whether it's $50 into VOO or a robo-advisor, just start. Time in market beats timing the market every single time.

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