Simplest defensive, index-like approach
The simplest, most defensive option: broad index-like exposure with a protective overlay that de-risks in downturns. Trades less and stays close to the market, prioritising capital protection over outperformance. Backtested 9.5% CAGR, max drawdown -33.7%. Backtested on today's large-cap universe (survivorship-biased — treat as an upper bound); execution modelled at next-available prices with costs; not a guarantee of future results.
Backtest: 9.5% CAGR, Sharpe 0.89, max drawdown -33.7%. This is a defensive, low-effort core, not an alpha engine — it will not beat the index in most years by design. Backtested on today's large-cap universe (survivorship-biased — treat as an upper bound); execution modelled at next-available prices with costs; not a guarantee of future results.
Hands-off investors who want a simple, defensive core holding.
US equities, ETFs