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I am 20 years old and have been investing in a Roth that I opened when I was 16. I have just over $18,000 in the account. Currently I have just invested in VTSAX and have let it ride. I feel like I am missing out and would like to invest more aggressively. Any idea which funds I should take a look into? Any and all help would be greatly appreciated!
Great position to be in at 20 — you're already ahead of most people your age. Here's the honest take:
VTSAX is the US total stock market. It holds ~3,600 companies across every sector. It's genuinely one of the best long-term investments that exists. The urge to "do more" is normal, but it often leads to worse outcomes, not better.
That said, there are legitimate ways to tilt more aggressively given your 40+ year horizon.
At your age, aggressive doesn't mean adding bonds — it means factor tilts that have historically outperformed the broad market over long periods, with more volatility along the way.
VTSAX is 100% US. The US is ~60% of global market cap, so you're ignoring 40% of the world.
| Fund | What it does | Expense Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| VXUS | Total international (developed + emerging) | 0.07% |
| VEA | Developed markets only (Europe, Japan, etc.) | 0.06% |
| VWO | Emerging markets (China, India, Brazil, etc.) | 0.08% |
A simple upgrade: 80% VTSAX / 20% VXUS gives you global diversification.
Historically, small-cap value stocks have outperformed the broad market over long horizons (the "size" and "value" factors). More volatile, but your 40-year runway handles that.
| Fund | What it does | Expense Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| AVUV | US small-cap value (factor-tilted) | 0.25% |
| VBR | Vanguard small-cap value (cheaper, less pure) | 0.07% |
A tilt: 70% VTSAX / 15% VXUS / 15% AVUV
VT (Vanguard Total World) is essentially VTSAX + international in one fund, at global market-cap weights. Zero thinking required.
If you want to do something, the highest-conviction upgrade is:
70% VTSAX + 15% VXUS + 15% AVUV
This keeps your broad US core, adds global exposure, and tilts toward small-cap value — all evidence-based, low-cost, and appropriate for a 40+ year Roth horizon.
But if you do nothing and just keep adding to VTSAX, you'll almost certainly retire wealthy. The best move is often the boring one.
This response may contain financial commentary based on historical data and does not constitute investment advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.