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LESSON 4 / Foundations

Build an allocation you can explain

An allocation expresses how different exposures fit together. It should connect to a purpose rather than to a list of fashionable investments.

Start with the circumstances

Time horizon, cash needs, ability to absorb loss, and willingness to tolerate uncertainty all influence an investment plan. The same market decline can affect two people differently if one needs cash next month and the other has a much longer horizon.

Check shared risks

Diversification looks across and within categories of investments. Several holdings can still depend on the same sector, currency, or economic conditions. Inspect overlapping fund holdings and concentrations rather than simply counting tickers.

Make review rules explicit

A written allocation can help you notice when market movements or new contributions change the mix. A review rule might be based on a calendar or on a specified change in allocation. Consider costs and tax consequences before acting. Diversification cannot eliminate losses, and no sample mix is a universal recommendation.

Put the idea into practice.

Use the plan tool to create an illustrative mix that totals 100%. Explain the purpose of each category and when you would review it.

Open the practice tool ↗

Check your understanding.

Which observation best tests diversification?

Review the concept

Underlying exposures matter more than the number of names in a portfolio.

Original Lyfter education · Updated 2026-11-13. Examples are hypothetical and do not provide a personal investment recommendation.

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