JL Collins is best known for recommending a simple, low-cost, broadly diversified index-fund approach—built around owning “the whole market” instead of trying to pick winners. In practice, that usually means putting most of your long-term money into a total U.S. stock market index fund with a very low expense ratio and holding it for decades.
The most commonly cited example from Collins’ work is Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund (VTSAX) or its ETF share class (VTI). The specific ticker matters less than the characteristics: a total-market index fund, broad diversification, low fees, and a long-term buy-and-hold plan.
If you can’t (or don’t want to) use Vanguard, you can use a comparable total U.S. stock market index fund from other major providers. Our team’s practical rule: prioritize the lowest-cost “total U.S. stock market” option available in your 401(k), IRA, or brokerage account.
This style works best when you invest steadily—every paycheck or every month—then leave it alone. Automation helps you keep buying through both booms and downturns without turning investing into a daily hobby.
Collins often discusses keeping it stock-heavy while you’re accumulating, then adding a bond allocation later if you want to reduce volatility or you’re nearing/entering retirement. If you do add bonds, stick with a low-cost, broad bond index fund rather than chasing yield.
This recommendation pairs naturally with minimalist money habits: fewer holdings, fewer decisions, and fewer opportunities to overpay in fees. For the bigger picture on building wealth without complicating your life, read our guide here: https://splendona.com/guide-simple-wealth-slow-living-minimalist-passive-income/.
He typically points people to a total U.S. stock market index fund rather than an individual stock, most famously VTSAX (or the ETF version, VTI). The goal is broad diversification and low fees, held long term.
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