It is my understanding that you want to achieve a certain amount of benefit in the long term, not short term, isn't it? If the answer is yes, you are absolutel

It is my understanding that you want to achieve a certain amount of benefit in the long term, not short term, isn't it? If the answer is yes, you are absolutely right in not investing in individual stocks. Where can be Google in 20 years? Facebook? Tesla? You don't know and the owners don't know either. The first thing that comes to mind would be a mixed index/bond approach using Vanguard ETF's although any company will do. If you go for a conservative approach you could invest 50% Vanguard all US market ETF, 30% Vanguard Whole bond market ETF and 20% Rest of the world ETF market. In a more venturous approach you could move the 50% up to 60% while adjusting bond and ROW markets. I am a hobbist investor as well and I would very much like to see the rest of opinions.