Is investing in bonds really necessary in your 20s?

[wm009]

I have read some ridiculous things in my life, but this one tops it.

If at least you provided the reasoning not to short bonds before writing something infantile then I would understand.

The guy is asking about starting a couch potato portfolio. Hence your point about shorting bonds is moot. Nor should anyone take advice from someone that has most likely been banned before and/or spammed the forum.

Many people who thought they could stomach a 50% loss freaked out during the 2008 crash and sold their stocks, meaning they bought high and sold low.

I don't have a clue if the OP can stomach it or not, but without knowing much about the OP, I'd be hesitant to say they can probably stomach it. Who knows whether they can or not.

I'm not saying it's universal, but it's a lot easier starting out to deal with a big loss than it is when you have a few hundred thousand in your portfolio.

[DaleCooper]

Nor should anyone take advice from someone that has most likely been banned before and/or spammed the forum.

Why not?

[SkimGuy]

It really depends on your risk and time horizon. I'm 22, and I have 20% of my portfolio in bonds, if it helps.

[sleepyguy]

I think the baseline was something like the percentage matching your age... but just a guideline. I have zippo in bonds (33yrs old). I'll probably start being a bit more risk adverse when I hit 35 or so.