Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA) takes an unconventional approach to managing money. In stark contrast to the “active” money management that defines Wall Street, DFA embraces a “passive” approach rooted in academic research. But don’t confuse DFA’s funds with index funds.
The market decline from October 2007 to early March 2009—known as the Global Financial Crisis—was the worst since the late 1930s. Stocks dropped 60%, investor uncertainty skyrocketed, and trust and confidence were shattered. As we mark the 10-year anniversary of the start to the Global Financial Crisis, what have we learned?
Most active investment managers don’t achieve their main objective—delivering higher returns than market averages. In fact, roughly 90% of US, international, and emerging market mutual funds underperformed their respective benchmarks over the past 15 years. But that doesn’t stop investors from trying.
In a recent The New York Times article, we shared our perspective that rebalancing serves an essential purpose – to manage risk. That doesn’t mean it’s easy. Buying low and selling high seems counterintuitive, but the reward for adopting this disciplined approach? Lower risk and potentially higher returns.
The evidence is clear – to maximize the long-term investment outcome of your portfolio, it’s best to get fully invested immediately. For those who just can’t bring themselves to plunge, our research suggests there’s an optimal way to wade.