Historical evidence supports positive market returns, suggesting an 8% conservative long-term projection. Paying off debt with 5% or 6% interest rates implies earning that rate as a return on investment. Clearing a 6% debt is akin to gaining a stable 6% return without the volatility associated with stocks. Stocks offer high returns but entail risks like market crashes, demanding investors to endure and continue investing for long-term gains. Volatility and risk are inherent in stock investments, contrasting with the stability of debt payments. While stocks are commonly viewed as risky, they are better defined as more volatile than alternatives like savings accounts. Putting $100,000 in a savings account guarantees erosion of purchasing power over time, highlighting the risk associated with low-yield savings versus investing in stocks over the long term.
JL Collins, the author of "The Simple Path to Wealth," achieved financial independence in 1989 with a surprisingly simple strategy: saving half his income and investing in index funds.
In this episode, JL breaks down his ultra-simple investing approach. He argues that keeping things uncomplicated leads to better results in the long run. "The less you mess with your investments," he says, "the more freedom you have to focus on what truly matters."
This episode is for anyone who feels overwhelmed by complex investment strategies. Learn how to set your finances on autopilot and get on with living your life.
We originally recorded and aired this episode in 2016.
We're sharing this as part of GREATEST HITS WEEK, a 5-day series in which we're sharing 5 episodes, across 5 days, that we produced during the earliest years of the Afford Anything podcast. You may have missed it then; enjoy it now.
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