Stocks
Ownership in companies can support long-term growth, but values may fall substantially and remain lower for years.
Focused decision guide
What do stock, bond and cash allocations mean?
A broad allocation is a simple description of what the portfolio owns. Each part can play a different role, and no single mix is right for every person or every stage of retirement.
Understand the choice
What changes—and what you give up.
Bonds
Loans to governments or companies may add stability and income, but can lose value when interest rates or credit conditions change.
Cash
Cash and near-cash can cover near-term needs with less market movement, but inflation can reduce purchasing power over time.
Before comparing
The assumptions that matter most.
- When the money may be needed
- How much short-term decline you could live with
- Other pensions, income and emergency reserves
- The specific risks inside each fund or security
Test the question
Use the guide with a planning tool.
The checkup uses broad categories for education. It does not recommend an allocation or security.