With the S&P 500 index of the largest U.S. stocks rising about 26% on a total return basis (price change plus dividends) in 2023, many folks are looking for smart ways to invest in 2024.
But as the old saying goes, past performance is no guarantee of future returns. It's important to take stock of the current economic environment as well as your personal risk tolerance before plowing your hard-earned cash into what's popular.
