Mike PhilbrickBMO All-Equity ETFZEQT.TOBUYSep 18, 2026

Best portfolio for an 18-year-old isn't necessarily the one with the highest expected returns. It's the one that they'll sit with and own during a 35% market decline. Nothing wrong with today starting a 80% equity/20% bond portfolio. Increase the equity exposure as they get experience with bear markets.

If they're 18, they're probably contributing along the way as well. They'll have time to buy those equities at cheaper prices.

Both these ETFs give broad market exposure -- Canadian, US, and global equities. Simple, cheerful, easy.

Take a look at FEQT, which might reduce the volatility a bit.