Originally Posted by SayAgain

CargoMan-

Bit late to this thread. I started an IRA in the late 90's. As of this year my returns are the same as if I shoved the $$ in a mattress for the last decade.

Finally got my cousin to take a look at the IRA. He's been using ETF's that short the market as well as some option trading. He actually makes a living off his trades. And this year I've done better.

I can say that for me, investing in a diverse group of mutual funds per investment advisors advice did not work.

What Boilerup said is right, if you don't know how to invest, at least take the company match (FREE MONEY) and the tax benefits. And after the deflationary period ends (who knows when that will be) inflation may come back with a vengeance, and you can get perhaps 15% in a money market. Or maybe you'll find a savvy money manager to help you out.