CRG MODERATe ETF Model
OBJECTIVE:
The Moderate ETF Model Portfolio is tailored for investors seeking a cautious approach to growth, balancing capital preservation with modest appreciation. This model is ideal for those who want to limit downside risk while still participating in equity market gains, blending stability with growth potential through a diversified mix of ETFs.
RISK LEVEL | Moderate |
TIME HORIZON (YRS) | 3 – 5 |
RISK SCORE RANGE | 21 – 40 |
EST. NOMINAL RETURN | 4 – 6% |
EST. VOLATILITY | 6 – 9% |

moderate
HOLDINGS |
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TICKER | RATIONALE | LITERATURE |
AGG (iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF)
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Including the iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (AGG) in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio is a strategic decision that balances growth and risk management. AGG provides a stable, diversified core of investment-grade bonds that reduce volatility, generate income, and preserve capital. This aligns well with the moderate investor’s goal of moderate growth and risk management.
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BND (PIMCO Active Bond ETF)
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Including the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND) in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio provides a diversified, low-cost core fixed income holding that reduces volatility, generates income, and preserves capital – making BND an essential component in achieving steady, moderate returns with controlled downside risk.
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VEA (iShares MSCI EAFE ETF)
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Including the Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF (VEA) in in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio enhances geographic and sector diversification, provides access to stable developed market growth opportunities, and introduces currency diversification. These factors help balance growth and risk, supporting the moderate investor’s goal of steady, diversified portfolio growth with controlled volatility.
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VOO (Vanguard S&P 500 ETF)
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A small, complementary equity allocation to VOO, a stable core of large-cap U.S. equities helps balance the model’s risk-return profile by adding measured equity exposure without significantly increasing overall portfolio volatility. This aligns with the moderate investor’s objective of achieving steady capital appreciation while managing risk.
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BNDX (Vanguard Total International Bond ETF)
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Including the Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (BNDX) in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio enhances fixed income diversification by adding currency-hedged international bonds, reducing overall portfolio volatility and risk. It complements domestic bonds, supports income generation, and contributes to capital preservation, aligning well with the moderate investor’s balanced growth and risk management objectives
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IAU (iShares Gold Trust)
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Including the iShares Gold Trust (IAU) in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio enhances diversification, provides inflation protection, and offers a safe-haven asset during market stress. These benefits help reduce portfolio volatility and downside risk, supporting the moderate investor’s objective of achieving balanced growth with prudent risk management.
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SLQD (iShares 0-5 Year Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF)
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Including the iShares 0-5 Year Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF (SLQD) in a Moderate ETF Model Portfolio enhances fixed income diversification by providing exposure to short-duration, investment-grade corporate bonds. This adds income potential with lower interest rate risk and reduced volatility, supporting the portfolio’s balanced growth and risk management objectives.
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BRINGING THE FUTURE INTO THE PRESENT
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