One of the things that financial writers, and financial advisors talk a lot about is indexes. Dow Jones, S&P 500, NASDAQ. Some people don’t know exactly what an index is. Today we talk with Daniel Prince, the head of iShares product consulting at Black Rock. iShares operates a number of funds based on indexes. Daniel will explain exactly what these things are. Daniel will also discuss what Exchange Traded funds (ETF’s) and how you can use them as part of your asset allocation. ETF’s are often based on indexes and help track them. Stocks and bonds, mutual funds, ETF’s, are just vehicles to help you invest, to help you achieve what you want in life.

 

Show Highlights:

• What is the very basic definition of Index
• Brief example using S&P 500 to illustrate the points of index
• Indexes were first formed to help measure yourself against the market
• Some indexes are accepted more as standards
• Some indexes are just something someone designed to sell a product
• Not all indexes are created equal
• Every index can look differently
• Number one benefit is to do your research, and understand what the different indexes are
• Can it be risky that there are so many choices out there with indexes?
• Broad definition of Exchange Traded Fund
• Most ETF’s today, not all, are tracking an index
• Building an Asset allocation, trying to put your dollars to work
• Broad market exposure helping build your portfolio

Resources:

Better Money Decisions Show on Facebook

www.ishares.com