About this episode
Welcome to Bootcamp #3 of the Sound Investing Series with Paul Merriman — where real investing data meets practical long-term strategy. 📈 In this session, Paul breaks down the performance of diversified portfolios vs. the S&P 500 using decades of historical data going back to 1970. You’ll learn how different combinations of equity asset classes have performed in good markets, bad markets, and everything in between.📊 What You’ll Learn in This Video:• A deep dive into the Sound Investing Portfolios and how they work for DIY investors• Historical returns of 2-, 4- and multi-fund strategies compared to the S&P 500• Why diversification matters and how it can reduce risk and improve returns• How different portfolios performed in tough decades like the 1970s and 2000s• Practical takeaways for long-term investors, retirees, and those choosing equity allocationsWhether you’re a beginner or experienced investor, this Bootcamp episode gives you real numbers and evidence-based insights to help shape your portfolio strategy with confidence. 💡 Topics Covered:✔ Sound Investing Portfolios explained✔ Risk vs. return comparison✔ Historical performance of diversified portfolios✔ The role of small-cap & value stocks✔ Why a 2-fund strategy can compete with the S&P 500✔ How to think about risk in real market conditions🔗 Useful Resources & Tables - https://www.paulmerriman.com/sound-investing-portfolios-2026To follow along with the charts, tables, and data Paul references during the presentation, check the pinned links and video notes.📈 Perfect For:✔ DIY investors✔ Retirement planners✔ Anyone curious about portfolio diversification✔ Investors who want to avoid common mistakes📩 Questions? Paul encourages you to leave comments and reach out — he often uses viewer questions in future episodes!➡️ Don’t forget to subscribe for more deep-dive investing education and future Bootcamp episodes from the Merriman Financial Education Foundation: Paul Merriman’s mission is to help you make more money with less risk and more peace of mind.
