Re: taking the plunge

"Paul Erickson" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote in message
news:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Background:
>
> I'm a newbie.  I've got  just over $300K to invest long-term, and need
> to generate about $1500.00 gross per month for needed additional
> income.  I don't want to attack principal (who does?), and would like
> to see moderate growth over the next 15 years or so.

That's 6% annually for income, plus growth too?  You are not going to get
that.

>
> I've seen two investment counselors who've recommended many mutuals of
> which the primary is American Funds.  The load is far too high, IMO.
>
> I'm leaning heavily toward Vanguard Index Funds, but am at a loss as
> to how I should divide up this moderate amount of money.  Moderate
> risk is okay, but I'm not sure how realistic this whole scenario
> is in light of the fund scandals, market flakiness, etc.

An index fund is not going to give you regular income.  You'll have to take
from your principal if you want that regular income.  You can buy a
portfolio of dividend stocks and get both diversification, income, and
growth.  But it ain't going to be 6%.

>
> I do realize that free advice is worth exactly what you pay for it,
> but I would like some voices to chime in on what direction I should
> take.
>
> Of course, thank you for any and all answers in advance.
>