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Here are several "periodic tables" that show how various asset classes performed over the past two decades. The Canadian tables show returns in CA$ and the US tables in US$.
Note that there is no discernible pattern as to which asset classes would outperform each year. Moreover no one was able to consistently predict the best asset classes for each year. These observations make a strong argument that one should diversify broadly among all major asset classes rather than try to guess which ones will do best every year. CanadaPeriodic Table of Annual Returns for Canadians [Stingy Investor] Shows relative returns of common asset classes, includind Real Return Bonds, in either nominal or real terms in Canadian dollars.Excel spreadsheet [right click to save] of annual returns, both nominal and inflation-adjusted [Libra Investment Management] "Do you see a pattern in those returns that will help you decide what to invest in next year? If not, then consider a diversified portfolio rather than gambling on picking next year's winner."
Templeton offers colourful lesson in diversification [Financial Post, 17Feb05] "It's next to impossible to find any pattern in the past 20 years that will have any predictive value for the next 10 or 20 years. The rise and fall of different asset classes appears to be totally random." See also: "Why Diversify"
United StatesPeriodic Table of Investment Returns
The Importance of Diversification
Periodic Table of Investment Returns
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