TypeRS

I graduated last year from college and have been working for over 6 months. my company offers 401k with 50% match, but it wasn't till now that i decided i should set up my 401k account. But i'm looking at the 401k enrollment sheet and am stumped as to where to invest my money into. There's like 10+ options ranging from stocks (which i already have some investing), Franklin funds to a bunch of Oppenheimer fund options.

As someone who has jsut started working, I just want something safe that will contribute to my retirement in the future. Advice?

doopstr

If they have an index fund that tracks the S&P 500, that's a good start. Also diversify a bit with a bond fund.

TBone2004

the younger you are the more aggressive you can be...look each of the funds up (unless they are privately held - then they tell you a similar fund symbol) and look at risks and return etc. Motley Fool has helpful info, Forbes or Fortune (forget who) put out recently their top picks - check it out.

NSXNEXT

iTrader: (2)

Ask your HR department if there is someone you can talk to?

My 401K is managed by Merrill Lynch and I have access to investment counselors to help me with investment decisions.

Chr8808

iTrader: (1)

Take advantage of taht match while you can. At my old job, they matched 100% but only up to $3k a year so thats like doubling up your $$ without doing a thing. At my new job, they dont match shit so i think its useless to contribute since i still ahve my old account.

As for choosing, like what Tbone says (if there is no advisor you can talk to). Look up the fund names and do some research as to what they are, how they performed etc, then make your pick from there. Hint: avoid funds that have given negative returns Use motely fool, yahoo finance, cnn business . . .

good luck

paranode

Research the funds through a financial website, look at 1, 5, 10, etc year returns and pick the best 1-3 funds for your growth. Depending on your age, put about 88-92% in those aggressive funds and about 8-12% in a well-performing bond-fund. Over time adjust these in favor of the bonds but only in small increments. You have to be aggressive to make decent returns.