ETFs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund and REITs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate_in

ETFs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund and REITs: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate_investment_trust http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_estate_investment_trust Are other investments you can look into. A mix of some blue chips that pay out dividends in combination with some ETFs which trade in commodities or specific growth markets might be a good idea. Balance out that risk with bonds or other instruments.