Diversified investing with low-cost ETFs

Asset allocation is the strategy of dividing your investments across various asset classes — such as stocks, bonds and cash — to achieve a balance between risk and reward that suits your individual goals and preferences. Diversification, a key benefit of asset allocation, can help protect your portfolio from fluctuations in any single market or asset class.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to asset allocation. Your ideal mix depends on factors like your financial goals, investment timeline and risk tolerance. For example, conservative investors may lean more heavily toward bonds, while those with a higher risk tolerance may favour stocks. Ultimately, the right allocation is the one tailored to your unique circumstances.

ETFs have become popular tools for both new and experienced investors seeking diversification at a low cost. There are two primary approaches to using ETFs to build a portfolio that fits your needs.

1. Built for you: All-in-one ETFs 

These ETFs are designed to provide broad diversification across multiple asset classes in a single fund. They offer convenience and automatic rebalancing, making portfolio management simpler for investors who prefer a hands-off approach.

Advantages 

• Simplicity: Purchase a single ETF to achieve instant diversification across multiple asset classes and geographies.
• Professional oversight: Portfolios benefit from ongoing management and automatic rebalancing to maintain the specified asset allocation that aligns with your objectives.
• Efficiency: Suitable for a range of risk profiles, from conservative to growth-oriented.

Potential drawbacks

• Limited customization: Investors may not be able to tailor the asset mix as precisely as with individual ETFs.

2. Built by you: Do-it-yourself using individual ETFs 

For those who prefer a more active role, building a portfolio with individual ETFs offers greater flexibility. You can select specific funds for each asset class, geographic region or investment theme, and adjust your holdings as your needs evolve.

Advantages

• Customization: Investors can select individual ETFs that provide exposure to specific asset classes, geographies and risk profiles to suit their needs.
• Flexibility: Adjust and rebalance your portfolio as you see fit.

Potential drawbacks

• Ongoing maintenance: Requires regular monitoring to maintain the optimal asset mix. Depending on market conditions, maintaining your preferred asset allocation and geographic weightings may require enhanced monitoring and rebalancing.