A client, a 28-year-old single professional with a high income and no dependents, is looking to invest for long-term growth. They have a very aggressive risk tolerance and are comfortable with significant market fluctuations in pursuit of maximum returns. Which of the following asset allocations is MOST suitable?
- A70% bonds, 20% large-cap stocks, 10% cash.
- B10% cash, 20% bonds, 70% blue-chip stocks.
- C50% large-cap stocks, 30% small-cap stocks, 20% international stocks.
- D30% bonds, 40% large-cap stocks, 30% money market funds.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 50% large-cap stocks, 30% small-cap stocks, 20% international stocks.
The client is young, has a high income, no dependents, and a very aggressive risk tolerance with a long-term growth objective. An allocation heavily weighted towards various equity classes (large-cap, small-cap, international stocks) would be most suitable to achieve maximum returns, consistent with their aggressive profile. Options A, C, and D are too conservative, including significant portions of bonds or cash, which would limit aggressive growth potential.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This allocation is too conservative for a very aggressive, long-term growth investor.
- B. While it includes a high percentage of stocks, blue-chip stocks are generally less aggressive than a mix including small-cap and international, and 20% bonds is still somewhat conservative for a 'very aggressive' investor.
- D. This allocation is too conservative due to the high percentage of bonds and money market funds.
Very Aggressive Growth Asset Allocation
For young investors with high risk tolerance and long-term growth objectives, a very aggressive asset allocation typically involves a high percentage of equities, often including small-cap, international, and emerging market stocks.
- High proportion of stocks (70% or more).
- Includes small-cap and international/emerging market equities.
- Minimal allocation to bonds or cash.
- Suitable for long-term horizons and high risk comfort.
Memory trick: Young and bold? Maximize stocks for maximum long-term returns!