Building a portfolio by life stage

There's no single "right" portfolio — the sensible mix changes as your time horizon and responsibilities change. This is a general illustration, not personal advice.

Early career (20s–30s)

• Long horizon means you can take more risk for more growth.
• Typically equity-heavy (e.g. 80–100% shares) via low-cost index funds.
• Priorities: build the emergency fund, clear costly debt, and start retirement contributions early to harness compounding.

Mid-career (40s–50s)

• Peak earning years — increase contributions.
• Begin adding bonds to temper risk (e.g. 60–70% shares).
• Review goals: home, children's education, retirement pace.

Approaching retirement (late 50s–60s)

• Reduce risk further so a late crash can't derail your plans (e.g. 40–60% shares).
• Hold a cash buffer for the first years of retirement spending.

In retirement

• Balance income and growth — you still need growth to last decades.
• Draw down thoughtfully; consider guaranteeing essentials with an annuity.

Key takeaway

Glide from growth toward stability as retirement nears — but never abandon growth entirely, because retirements can last decades. Match your risk to your remaining time horizon.