Want financial freedom in 2026? These 4 types of asset allocation might really work.

Recently, I saw an investment portfolio strategy recommended by an investment blogger, and the core logic is actually very simple: Broad-based US stock ETF + International developed markets + Bonds + Real estate.

US Stock Market ETF: Tracks over 3,500 companies across the United States, naturally including giants like NVIDIA, Apple, and Microsoft, eliminating the need to pick stocks yourself and allowing the market to filter winners for you. Dividend yield of about 1.4%, with high stability.

International Diversification: Many people only focus on the US stock market, but developed markets in Europe, Japan, and Australia are also performing. An ETF that includes 3,900 international companies has had an annualized return of 7.9% over the past ten years, with a dividend yield of 2.6%. The key is to reduce the risk of a single market.

Bond Buffer: I know bonds sound boring, but they are the “cushion” in the portfolio. Recently, their performance has been surprising, with a YTD increase of 4.97%, while the dividend is close to 4%, and the fees are as low as 0.03%.

Real Estate Leverage: This is the core for those looking to quickly accumulate wealth. The strategy of owning and renting can outperform other asset classes, especially when leverage can be used.

From the perspective of diversifying risks, this trap configuration is indeed worth referencing. However, the specific proportions vary from person to person; the key is to stick to regular investment.