The last few years are not representative of the long term. Over the long term stocks, bonds and real estate - in aggregate - rise in value. If you don't want

The last few years are not representative of the long term. Over the long term stocks, bonds and real estate - in aggregate - rise in value. If you don't want to risk short or medium term fluctuations and black swans, the ultimate traditional and safe investment is a savings account. If you're the type that thinks fiat currency is only worth it's weight in toilet paper, then buy gold. For any of these investments you'll have more left at retirement than if you put 100% of your capital into startups that ended up going out of business.