William Bernstein's No-Brainer Portfolios

William Bernstein, a neurologist by trade and well-known author of books like "The Four Pillars of Investing," has made a name for himself by being a vocal critic to the Wall Street establishment. And, like many others, Bernstein believes 1) you should stick with index funds with a risk-return profile that you desire, and 2) that properly diversified low cost funds offer you the best chance of long-term success.

To meet that goal, here are two of his highly recommended lazy portfolios:

William Bernstein's Basic No-Brainer Portfolio (Regular or Tax Friendly)
- 25% in Vanguard 500 Index (VFINX)
- 25% in Vanguard Small Cap (NAESX) or (VTMSX)
- 25% in Vanguard Total International (VGTSX) or (VTMGX)
- 25% in Vanguard Total Bond (VBMFX) or (VBISX)

William Bernstein's No-Brainer Coward's Portfolio:
- 40% in Vanguard Short Term Investment Grade (VFSTX)
- 15% in Vanguard Total Stock Market (VTSMX)
- 10% in Vanguard Small Cap Value (VISVX)
- 10% in Vanguard Value Index (VIVAX)
- 5% in Vanguard Emerging Markets Stock (VEIEX)
- 5% in Vanguard European Stock (VEURX)
- 5% in Vanguard Pacific Stock (VPACX)
- 5% in Vanguard REIT Index (VGSIX)
- 5% in Vanguard Small Cap Value (NAESX) or (VTMSX)

For more information: 1, 2