While 2022 ended with a decline of -12.5%, 2023 concludes with a bang in the stock markets. This is not only good news for investors but also serves as a reminder that stocks remain an indispensable component of a long-term investment portfolio.
After months of volatile movements, stocks have finally surpassed the ceiling reached in January 2022 and have risen to new highs. Stocks continue their inexorable long-term growth and wrap up the year with an impressive +16,6% in 2023. Investors who entered the markets at the beginning of this year received a nice Christmas gift!
This is the nature of stock markets: there are excellent years, and there are less favorable ones, but in the long run, this volatility is offset by a return that is hard to beat. 9% per year on average over the last ten years—what could be better?
For the long-term investor, exposure to stocks is indispensable. While the percentage of stocks in the portfolio should be adjusted based on risk profile, objectives, and investment horizon, an optimal return requires a position in stocks. Especially in times of strong inflation, as we are experiencing today.
Yes to stocks, but preferably all stocks! While the global market is very difficult to beat in the long run, it is, on the contrary, very easy to go wrong by focusing on specific stocks. At Easyvest, we, therefore, recommend our clients to invest in the global market through ETFs, allowing for maximum portfolio diversification at minimal costs.
This so-called "passive" or index approach is extremely effective in the long run. More effective, in any case, than the majority of active strategies offered at high prices by traditional and private banks in Belgium. This is evident from the 110 portfolio audits we conducted this year: over 90% of them would have achieved better results over five years with Easyvest!
At the beginning of this year, say no to procrastination and step into the stock market! Perform a simulation on our website to become familiar with our approach and evaluate your potential return. Then, schedule an appointment with one of our managers to finalize the opening of your account, in line with your goals. Within 24 hours, you can become the investor you've always dreamed of being... and enjoy the long-term growth of the global stock market.