Hey there, I’ve been in EEB following the BRIC countries since the middle of last year and while the US markets have been shamed. I’m still up pretty good considering most everything is down.

I’m loving the ETF style of investing and went with EEB because it’s just to damned hard to follow independent foreign stocks in those territories.

That said I’m seriously considering consolidating most of my US based stocks into XLG which follows the Russell 500 and comprises the biggest large cap movers. From there I’d still have my fun with spec stocks but it’s a whole lot less volatility and homework on the bulk of my portfolio, just consistent growth.

So, first question! Are there really any downsides to ETF’s? Yes, I get that I don’t get the huge growth spikes, but can save those for Spec stocks. You also don’t get the huge dives, just steady growth.

Second, any good ETF funds you recommend? And anyone done analysis on EEB vs. BIK? BIK is cheaper but EEB seems more successful.
I’m seriously thinking of growing my BRIC (EEB) investments, following the Russell 500 (XLG), buying into Gold (IAU or GDX) and holding onto a 15 – 20% for speculative and spot growth. Just seems much more secure for my ensure long-term growth while still allowing me to play the ponies (spec’s and high growth individuals) to keep it interesting. I hate my job but it affords me a wonderful lifestyle while letting me put away – k/year so hoping to ride this for 5 to 10 more years and go do whatever the heck I want!

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