KISS Portfolio — Keep It Simple Strategy
Three low-cost index funds for disciplined, long-term investing with no tactical tilts.
Overview
The KISS Portfolio uses three passively managed, low-cost index funds to cover the major components of a diversified portfolio with minimal complexity. It follows the 80/20 principle, focusing on the essential few holdings that drive most long-term results.
Some investors prefer to treat assets such as gold or cryptocurrency as part of their core allocation. If that aligns with your approach, you can incorporate these using the ETFs available in the Best-in-Class menu.
The KISS Portfolio works on its own or as the foundation for satellite additions based on your plan.
| Asset Class / Category | Holding | 🛡 Risk Level | 💸 Expense Ratio | Weight Range | Strategic Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Broad | Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) | 4 | 0.03% | 30–90% | Market-cap weighted—like VOO plus mid & small caps; high U.S. tech exposure with ~33% in Mag 7 big tech names. Mutual fund equivalent is VTSAX. |
| International Large Blend | Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) | 4 | 0.05% | 10–30% | Core low-cost index covering developed & emerging markets across large, mid, and small caps. Mutual fund equivalent is VTIAX. |
| Ultra-Short Bonds | JPMorgan Ultra-Short Income ETF (JPST) | 1 | 0.18% | 0–40% | Actively managed ultra-short strategy with strong peer-group performance; less sensitivity to interest rates; cash-plus profile for stability. |
Methodology and notes
The portfolio uses broad market exposures to deliver diversification and cost efficiency without tactical asset allocation. Allocation ranges maintain structure while allowing flexibility. Rebalancing can follow a set schedule or be driven by thresholds based on your plan.
The KISS Portfolio is reviewed periodically to confirm the selected funds continue to meet standards for coverage, cost, and simplicity. You can pair it with positions from the Best-in-Class list to reflect your views or add diversification.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research and consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.
Historical Performance Disclaimer: Historical performance data is provided for informational purposes only and does not guarantee future results. Performance figures are sourced from Portfolio Visualizer (www.portfoliovisualizer.com) and may include data from third-party providers. All information is believed to be accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. Please verify all information independently before making investment decisions.
| Asset Class / Category | Holding | 🛡 Risk Level | 💸 Expense Ratio | Weight Range | Strategic Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Broad | Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) | 4 | 0.03% | 30–90% | Market-cap weighted—like VOO plus mid & small caps; high U.S. tech exposure with ~33% in Mag 7 big tech names. Mutual fund equivalent is VTSAX. |
| International Large Blend | Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) | 4 | 0.05% | 10–30% | Core low-cost index covering developed & emerging markets across large, mid, and small caps. Mutual fund equivalent is VTIAX. |
| Ultra-Short Bonds | JPMorgan Ultra-Short Income ETF (JPST) | 1 | 0.18% | 0–40% | Actively managed ultra-short strategy with strong peer-group performance; less sensitivity to interest rates; cash-plus profile for stability. |