I've recently jumped off this bridge, twice. They have pretty much gone nowhere. I know you're supposed to be patient w/ these, but… it is frustrating.
1) Long term accumulation (buy and hold). These are at Vanguard due to their low fees. Most of it is in VTSAX (Total stock market) and VTIAX (Total international) funds. I have been averaging 12% yearly returns for the past 10 years.
2) Short term investments: Individual stocks, for more active trading. I don't have a long term return figures, but the past year has been 30%.
3) Cash: I keep about 15% in cash at all times. I look for high interesting savings accounts (Ally Bank gives you 1.85% returns) and money market funds (Vanguard VMMXX gives you 2.05% ish)
