What does diversification in an investment portfolio aim to achieve?

Diversification in an investment portfolio focuses on reducing risk by spreading investments across various asset classes. This approach aims to decrease the overall risk associated with investing, as it mitigates the impact of poor performance from any single investment or asset class on the overall portfolio. By including a variety of assets—such as stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities—investors can benefit from differing performance characteristics and market conditions. For example, when equity markets may be declining, bonds might be stable or even perform well, offsetting losses.

Maximizing returns from high-risk assets, concentrating investments in a few commodities, or investing only in government bonds does not align with the primary goal of diversification. Concentration in a few investments or asset types may increase risk rather than reduce it, which is contrary to the principles of diversification. Thus, spreading investments across various asset classes remains a fundamental strategy for achieving a balanced and less volatile investment portfolio.