Google "VTSAX". I originally had 3 funds but now holding just one - VTSAX. But of course, that will change as I get closer to retirement (still far :-))
Maybe, depending on the definition of better. The single VTSAX fund has substantially outperformed the three-fund mix.
In my case, I believe we're in a rising rate environment, therefore I'd rather not hold bonds; I'm realistically investing for my kids' consumption rather than our own (we have the basics well-covered already); VTSAX holds companies that have substantial outside the US exposure and most of my future expenses are tightly tied to the fortunes of the US economy.
If your timeline is > 35 years, you're in the US, and intending to stay in the US, I could argue that pure VTSAX is better. Any of them are better than a "professional" financial advisor, IMO.
Not so far. VTSAX and VTI are basically the same thing.
If you put $10,000 in in 2012, and just invested in the S&P500, you'd have $23,046. If you just did VTI (Vanguard Total Stock Market), you'd have $22,754 (and VTSAX would be $22,731). If you did the recommended 3 stock portfolio (VTI 42%, VXUS 18%, and BND 40%) you'd have $16,668.
So while they all made money, the three stock portfolio made the least money. Unfortunately the Vanguard ETFs don't go back before the last recession, otherwise it would be interesting to see how the numbers invert, or if they do.
My 401K is on a different fund only because VTSAX is not one of the options (but it's on an index fund tracking S&P 500). My IRA is fully on VTSAX. If I have an option, I'll put all my investments on VTSAX - I'm rooting for the US economy!
