Q: Peter,

I look at the S & P 500 index as the gold standard for performance measurement. It has been my theory that any portfolio performance should be compared to this index first. Do you agree?

For diversification purposes please list your top 5 indexes & associated ETF codes that you feel would be relevant whenever looking at an equity portfolio. This can be anywhere in the world. { Fixed Income I strictly take a ladder approach.} I would be interested in ones with a lower correlation , if that is realistic. It may not be.

Thank you

Paul

Q: I have a small position in each of the above listed ETFs. I believe one must be invested in more than just North America but, I am concerned with the Geopolitical situation in Russia (re Ukraine) and China (re Taiwan). Additionally, these ETFs have been down lately and I'm thinking of selling them. What percentage of each ETF is invested in Russia/China? What would you recommend to replace these ETFs in order to exclude or have minimal exposure to Russia/China?

Thanks!

Q: Are you aware if there are mounting pressures on ETF providers (Vanguard, Black Rock, etc...) to exit the Russian equity markets? I own VEE, VXC and VEQT for my international exposure, and realized I own about 1500$ worth of Russian stocks. I am not morally confortable anymore with that exposure even though it's a very small weighting. I would gladly write it off of my portfolio... I know this is personal to every investor and that's OK, but some principles come before returns for me...
If it's unlikely Vanguard would make any move towards ETF ex-Russia, I am seriously thinking of selling all (fortunately my exposure is mostly in registered accounts) and buying international alternatives.

What ETFs would you then suggest to get similar international exposure ex-Russia?

Thank you