FINANCEOngoing practice

The Swensen Model of Asset Allocation

Diversified Investing

Problem it solves

poor financial decisions

Best for

Long-term investors seeking diversification

Not ideal for

Short-term investors or those seeking high-risk, high-reward investments

Overview

Why this framework exists

The Swensen Model of Asset Allocation is a diversified investment strategy that allocates assets across different classes to minimize risk and maximize returns. The model suggests allocating 30% to domestic equities, 15% to developed-world international equities, 5% to emerging-market equities, 20% to real estate investment trusts, 15% to government bonds, and 15% to treasury inflation-protected securities.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Diversification is key to minimizing risk and maximizing returns.
  2. Asset allocation should be based on a long-term perspective.
  3. A mix of different asset classes can provide a balanced portfolio.

Steps

2 steps
  1. Determine Asset Allocation
    Determine the asset allocation based on the Swensen Model. Allocate 30% to domestic equities, 15% to developed-world international equities, 5% to emerging-market equities, 20% to real estate investment trusts, 15% to government bonds, and 15% to treasury inflation-protected securities.
    Pro tipConsider your risk tolerance and investment goals when determining the asset allocation.
    WarningThe Swensen Model is a general guideline and may not be suitable for all investors.
  2. Select Low-Cost Funds
    Select low-cost funds that match the asset allocation. Look for funds with low expense ratios and minimal fees.
    Pro tipConsider index funds or ETFs, which tend to have lower fees than actively managed funds.
    WarningHigh fees can eat into your returns over time.

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Example 1

An investor with a moderate risk tolerance and a long-term perspective may allocate 30% to domestic equities, 15% to developed-world international equities, 5% to emerging-market equities, 20% to real estate investment trusts, 15% to government bonds, and 15% to treasury inflation-protected securities.

OutcomeThe investor will have a diversified portfolio with a balanced asset allocation.

Common mistakes

2 traps
Not Diversifying Enough
Not diversifying enough can lead to excessive risk and potential losses. Make sure to allocate assets across different classes.
Not Considering Risk Tolerance
Not considering risk tolerance can lead to an unsuitable asset allocation. Make sure to consider your risk tolerance and investment goals when determining the asset allocation.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Swensen Model was developed by David Swensen, the chief investment officer of Yale University's endowment. The model has been successful in generating high returns for the endowment over the years.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
I Will Teach You to Be Rich, Second Edition: No Guilt. No Excuses. No B.S. Just a 6-Week Program That Works.
Ramit Sethi · 2019
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