Financial Myth Busters: Should You Really Invest 100 Minus Your Age in Stocks?

10/03/2025 18 min
Financial Myth Busters: Should You Really Invest 100 Minus Your Age in Stocks?

Listen "Financial Myth Busters: Should You Really Invest 100 Minus Your Age in Stocks?"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode of The Personal Finance Project, Scott Bartosh and Greg Ashcroft return for another round of financial mythbusting — this time tackling the age-old (pun intended) investing rule: Subtract your age from 100 to determine how much of your portfolio should be in stocks. Is it simple wisdom… or dangerously outdated advice? Scott and Greg break down why this rule might be directionally correct but ultimately falls short in today's complex financial world. They explore: Why the "100 minus your age" formula ignores key personal variables The importance of emergency funds, job stability, and insurance in shaping your investment strategy How human capital and income sources impact asset allocation Why time horizon isn't always tied to your age The role of asset location and tax planning in portfolio construction And how rigidly following this rule could cost you long-term returns Whether you're in your 20s just starting to invest or approaching retirement, this episode will challenge how you think about risk, returns, and what really drives smart asset allocation. 💡 Bottom line: It's time to stop letting your age dictate your portfolio — and start letting your goals lead the way.

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