Investing 101

Brushing up on the basics of asset allocation and diversification might help you make informed retirement planning decisions.

Asset classes vary in risk and reward

First, let’s review the three basic asset classes: stocks, bonds and cash or stable value.

Stocks

These are shares of ownership in a public company. Stocks carry greater risks than bonds or cash/stable value options. Historically, stocks have offered the greatest potential for long-term growth.

Bonds

Bonds are IOUs issued by a corporation, the government, or a government agency. The issuer promises to pay bondholders the principal plus a stated rate of interest when the bond matures. Generally, bonds offer moderate risk and lower returns than stocks.

Cash or stable value

Investments in this asset class seek to preserve principal, provide consistent returns, and remain liquid. They offer low investment risk and lower returns.

Diversifying helps balance your portfolio

When you diversify, you invest in a variety of asset classes to help balance risk and return. A simple example is an account that holds a stock fund, a bond fund and a cash fund. If one part of your portfolio is doing well and another is losing value, the gains may help offset the losses. It’s also possible to diversify within an asset class. For example, you may choose a large-cap stock fund and a small-cap stock fund.

Asset allocation works with diversification

Asset allocation allows you to divide your investments among asset classes. You determine your asset allocation by considering your risk tolerance and the amount of time you have until you retire—your “time horizon.” A more aggressive portfolio with a higher level of risk exposure includes more stocks, while a more conservative portfolio includes more bonds or cash/stable value.

Differences in returns among asset classes may cause your asset allocation to shift over time, so you should review your account annually and adjust it, if necessary. Adjusting your asset allocation back to your desired mix is called rebalancing. 

Please note that diversification and asset allocation cannot guarantee a profit or protect against investment loss.

Review your investments

Now that you’ve brushed up on asset allocation and diversification, look at your retirement account investment mix and make sure it aligns with your goals. 

This material is provided by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, Fort Wayne, IN, and, in New York, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, Syracuse, NY, and their applicable affiliates (collectively referred to as “Lincoln”). The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company does not solicit business in the state of New York, nor is it authorized to do so. This material is intended for general use with the public. Lincoln does not provide investment advice, and this material is not intended to provide investment advice. Lincoln has financial interests that are served by the sale of Lincoln programs, products, and services.