Do diversification and asset allocation guarantee a profit?

Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss. Stock markets are volatile and can fluctuate significantly in response to company, industry, political, regulatory, market, or economic developments. Investing in stock involves risks, including the loss of principal.

What's the difference between asset allocation & diversification?

When it comes to investing, asset allocation is the equivalent of deciding how many of your eggs you're going to put into how many different baskets—or asset classes. Diversification is the spreading of your investments both among and within different asset classes.

What is an asset allocation?

Usually expressed on a percentage basis, your asset allocation is what portion of your total portfolio you'll invest in different asset classes, like stocks, bonds and cash or cash equivalents. You can make these investments either directly by purchasing individual securities or indirectly by choosing funds that invest in those securities.