Skip to content

Experience conclusively shows that index-fund buyers are…

“Experience conclusively shows that index-fund buyers are likely to obtain results exceeding those of the typical fund manager, whose large advisory fees and substantial portfolio turnover tend to reduce investment yields. Many people will find the guarantee of playing the stock-market game at par…” quote by Burton Malkiel
Download Open image
“Experience conclusively shows that index-fund buyers are likely to obtain results exceeding those of the typical fund manager, whose large advisory fees and substantial portfolio turnover tend to reduce investment yields. Many people will find the guarantee of playing the stock-market game at par every round a very attractive one. The index fund is a sensible, serviceable method for obtaining the market's rate of return with absolutely no effort and minimal expense.”

Burton Malkiel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Index funds often outperform active managers due to lower fees and turnover.

In simple terms: Low‑cost index funds beat most active managers.

Key Takeaway

Prefer low‑cost diversified investing.

Themes

finance investment efficiency behavioral economics risk management

Mood

analytical pragmatic educational

Type

financial advisory

When to use this quote

  • retirement planning
  • college savings
  • portfolio diversification
  • long‑term wealth building

Key Concepts

passive investing market efficiency fee structures

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is passive investing always the best choice?
  • How do fees impact long‑term returns?
A Different Perspective

Active strategies may succeed in niche markets or volatile periods.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Burton Malkiel

Explore all 16 Burton Malkiel quotes

More Advisory quotes

Browse all 31 Advisory quotes