Chapter 10

Choose an ETF

Three flags at different heights — choosing your risk level

Now it's time to pick your ETF. This is easier than you think.

There's no single "best" ETF. The best one is the one that matches your comfort level — because the only ETF that works is one you can keep adding to for years without panicking.


Ask yourself one question

How comfortable am I with ups and downs?

  • If a 30% drop would keep you up at night → pick a calmer option
  • If you can watch your money drop and think "whatever, I'm in this for 20 years" → you can handle more risk

Higher risk = higher potential returns, but also wilder swings. Lower risk = calmer ride, but slower growth.

A risk spectrum showing ACWI as lowest risk, S&P 500 as medium, and Nasdaq 100 as highest risk with highest potential returns

Three solid options

ACWI (All-World ETF)

Invests in 3,000+ companies all over the world — US, Europe, Asia, emerging markets.

  • Most diversified (safest spread)
  • Calmest ride
  • ~8% per year historically

Best for: people who want broad, global exposure and a smooth experience.


S&P 500

Invests in the 500 biggest US companies — Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, etc.

  • Strong long-term performance
  • More ups and downs than ACWI
  • ~12% per year historically

Best for: people who want a good balance between growth and stability.


Nasdaq 100

Invests in the 100 biggest US tech companies.

  • Highest growth potential
  • Wildest ups and downs
  • ~15% per year historically

Best for: people who are comfortable with big swings and want maximum growth.


What €250 per month becomes

ETF5 years10 years20 years
ACWI (~8%)~€18,300~€45,500~€147,000
S&P 500 (~12%)~€20,300~€58,000~€230,000
Nasdaq (~15%)~€22,000~€72,000~€360,000

(Total invested over 20 years: €60,000)

Bar chart comparing the growth of 250 euros per month across ACWI, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 over 5, 10, and 20 years

The difference is dramatic over long periods. But remember: higher returns always come with bumpier rides.


Simple decision guide

  • Want calm and globalACWI
  • Want growth with balanceS&P 500
  • Want maximum growth, can handle the rollercoasterNasdaq 100

Key takeaway

Don't overthink this. Pick something that matches your personality, and stick with it for years. Consistency matters more than picking the perfect ETF.