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Investment guru Warren Buffett advocates for the acquisition of a specific index fund, asserting that it has the potential to transform a monthly investment of $500 into a staggering $986,900.

Proven over time, the index fund consistently generates profits for long-term investors.

Investment guru Warren Buffett advocates for the purchase of a smart index fund, claiming it could...
Investment guru Warren Buffett advocates for the purchase of a smart index fund, claiming it could transform a monthly $500 investment into a staggering $986,900.

Investment guru Warren Buffett advocates for the acquisition of a specific index fund, asserting that it has the potential to transform a monthly investment of $500 into a staggering $986,900.

In a recommendation at Berkshire Hathaway's annual meeting in 2020, renowned investor Warren Buffett endorsed the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF for those looking to invest in an S&P 500 index fund. This exchange-traded fund (ETF) offers a cost-effective solution for investors, with an expense ratio of just 0.03%, meaning shareholders will pay only $3 per year on every $10,000 invested.

The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF tracks the performance of the S&P 500, an index that is widely considered the best benchmark for the entire U.S. stock market. This ETF provides exposure to many of the largest companies in the world, including the top 10 positions such as Nvidia (8%), Microsoft (7.3%), Apple (5.7%), Amazon (4.1%), Alphabet (3.7%), Meta Platforms (3.1%), Broadcom (2.5%), Berkshire Hathaway (1.6%), Tesla (1.6%), and JPMorgan Chase (1.4%).

Historical data shows that the S&P 500 has achieved a positive return over every 15-year period since 1950, and over the last three decades, it has achieved a total return of 1,900% with average annualized gains of 10.5%. In fact, only 15% of large-cap funds beat the S&P 500 in the last decade.

Assuming slightly more conservative gains of 10% annually, $500 invested monthly in the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF would be worth $95,600 in one decade, $343,600 in two decades, and $986,900 in three decades.

While investing in individual stocks can offer the potential for high returns, it also carries a higher risk. By including the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF in a portfolio, investors can strike a balance between potential high returns and decent returns in case of underperformance. The S&P 500 ETF serves as a great foundation for almost any portfolio, providing long-term gains.

In conclusion, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF offers a cost-effective and diversified investment opportunity, making it a valuable addition to any investor's portfolio.

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