A 401(k) account can lose money if you invest in assets that are subject to market forces and they don't guarantee a minimum rate of return. If you prefer low-risk, fixed-income assets, consider stable value funds, U.S. savings bonds, CDs and guaranteed investment contracts (GICs). Our Fixed Income Specialists can help you prepare your portfolio to address your financial needs. Reach out online, or call a Fixed Income Specialist at 877-883-2835. Learn more about fixed income investing ». Fixed income can be a vital part of a young investor’s portfolio, helping provide risk management through diversification. This has added up to big losses for investors. For example, the largest U.S. bond fund strategy, the $514.5 billion Vanguard Total Bond Market Index VBMFX is down 12.12% through Sept. 13, putting Exchange traded funds (ETFs) Mutual funds. When investing in stocks, you have a greater chance of higher gains compared to fixed income products. However, there's also a lot more risk involved. There are zero guarantees with equity markets, so you could lose your initial investment if you choose the wrong products. Here's a look at 10 of the best low-cost index funds and exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, to buy: Index fund. Expense ratio. Fidelity 500 Index Fund (ticker: FXAIX) 0.015%. The 4% rule assumes you withdraw the same amount from your portfolio every year, adjusted for inflation. Source: Schwab Center for Financial Research. Assumes an initial portfolio value of $1 million. Withdrawals increase annually by 2%. The example is hypothetical and provided for illustrative purposes only. 5yVp.

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