When it comes to planning for retirement, many of us tend to focus on the wrong things. We overlook the most crucial factor that determines the long-term success of our retirement portfolios: the performance of the stock and bond markets. Despite its significance, we often neglect this factor because it lies beyond our control. Instead, we divert our attention to less impactful matters, even though they have little effect in the long run.
To emphasize the influence of the stock and bond markets, take a look at the accompanying chart. It demonstrates a close correlation between the returns of these markets and the returns of retirement portfolios. These statistics are drawn from annual editions of the “How America Saves” yearbook, which Vanguard utilizes to analyze the behaviors and experiences of almost 5 million plan participants with accounts at the firm.
The correlation between these factors is remarkable, as depicted in the chart. Given that history tends to repeat itself, it suggests that the size of your retirement portfolio will primarily depend on how the stock and bond markets perform from now until you begin withdrawing from it.
The Markets’ Future Performance
Retirement planning involves various logistical details that should not be overlooked. However, it is crucial to base your retirement strategy on a realistic assessment of the anticipated performance of the stock and bond markets.
Predicting Bond Returns
When it comes to projecting future returns for bonds, the task is comparatively simpler than for stocks. This is because the long-term return of a bond fund or ETF can be accurately predicted if you hold it for at least one year less than twice its average duration. This formula was first derived several years ago and introduced in the Financial Analysts Journal in 2015.
For example, consider the iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (AGG), which is designed to reflect the overall U.S. investment-grade bond market. According to iShares, it currently has an average duration of 6.33 years and an average yield to maturity of 4.82%. By holding the AGG for approximately 11.7 years (6.33 times two, minus one), you can expect an annualized return very close to 4.8%, regardless of how interest rates fluctuate during that period.
Stock Market Projections
To predict the performance of stocks, I have analyzed eight indicators that have consistently been accurate in forecasting the stock market’s return over the following decade. The median forecast from these indicators suggests an inflation-adjusted total return of -1.0% per year. Taking into account the 10-year breakeven inflation rate, the projected nominal return is estimated at 1.3% per year until 2033.
These projections indicate that a 60:40 portfolio would achieve a 10-year nominal total return of 2.7% per year, which falls below historical averages.
It is important to note that there is potential for the markets to outperform these projections significantly. Valuation models have a considerable margin of error, allowing for both positive and negative outcomes. However, it is highly likely that my forecasted 2.7% annualized return over ten years will be more accurate than the overly optimistic expectations reported last week. In a recent survey, the average investor expected to surpass inflation by approximately 20% per year over the next decade.
Based on this analysis, I advise planning your retirement with the expectation of a 2.7% annualized return from the stock and bond markets over the long term. If the markets exceed these projections, you can enjoy a pleasantly surprising windfall in the future.
Investment Newsletters: Tracking Performance
Investment newsletters are a valuable resource for individuals looking to make informed financial decisions. However, not all newsletters are created equal, which is why it’s important to track their performance.
Mark Hulbert, a renowned contributor and expert in the field, has formed Hulbert Ratings. This unique service offers audits of investment newsletters that pay a flat fee to be examined. Mark Hulbert uses his extensive knowledge and experience to provide an unbiased analysis of these newsletters.
If you’re looking for trustworthy investment guidance, look no further than Hulbert Ratings. With their comprehensive analysis and rigorous evaluation process, they provide the tools you need to navigate the complex world of investing.