Ok I put it into portfolio visualizer going back 30-40 years and makes sense what you’re saying especially REITs and TIPs. I didn’t get into the market until 2020 though so looking at bonds return since then and even max return for VND has been negative technically I believe. So arguably bonds would have hurt my portfolio compared to a qqq,vgt where the drawdown is painful but if you average in you could boost performance so higher risk but higher return over time… at least in recent environment I know it’s only been three years. Appreciate your answer!

REITs have performed just 0.01% lower than the S&P500 over the last 45 years, and they are a relatively non-correlated asset. As for bonds, you’re right, not as aggressive, but it can lower the risk of the portfolio in aggregate without significantly lowering overall returns. As for tech-focused… why? You’re effectively getting the same exposure in the total stock market, but you’re lowering the risk. In those funds, all it takes is for one or two companies to tank for a couple years and you’ll significantly underperform vs the broader market funds (which will still feel that same impact, but more moderately).

Honestly, if you can do a Roth, it’s probably a good choice! Taxable isn’t bad, but no tax benefits.

See this guide (M1 is awesome): Best IRA Accounts.

You might find this guide helpful too: Order of Operations to Save For Retirement.

I’m a little late to the game, but I want to invest more. Do I look into a Roth IRA or just open a traditional taxable brokerage account? I understand that I should set up recurring contributions, but I’m not exactly sure which one would be more beneficial? Also trying to decide between M1 finance and fidelity. If you have advice or can send me somewhere for some, I’d really appreciate it!
Thanks!