1) Small cap stocks in aggregate have a lengthy history of higher returns than typical equity benchmarks, but come at the cost of higher risk. However, over the past few years, this has not been the case. The question is whether it's a buying opportunity or if the market structure has changed and now favors larger companies.

2) Not sure what qualifies as medium risk, but I might suggest dividend stocks.

3) REITs are a great way to gain diversified exposure to real estate. Exchange traded REITs also have the benefit of liquidity, whereas individual real estate investments might last decades.

4) This is a broad category and most bonds are considered investment-grade. Of all the different issuers of bonds, I've found corporate bonds to provide an excellent risk-adjusted return compared to US treasuries.

5) Target date mutual funds tend to be available in employer sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s. They provide a very simple asset allocation model targeting a retirement goal. Generally most investment advisors are able to build more suitable investment plans for their clients.

6) As one approaches retirement, it's generally good to shift from high-risk high-return assets into lower risk assets like bonds. A portfolio heavily allocated to bonds can provide steady fixed-income during retirement.

7) US Treasuries are often thought of as a risk-free investment, but like all bonds, they are exposed to inflation risk. Theoretically TIPs provide the same safety as treasuries, while compensating for inflation. TIPs are therefore quite safe investments. But because inflation expectations are priced in, they don't often provide great returns unless inflation exceeds expectations.

8) CDs are easy to purchase, but aren't as liquid as bonds. I've found CDs to offer rates comparable to corporate bonds. Because bonds are tradable, I'd opt for those instead.

9) In order to achieve one's retirement goals, including early retirement, it can actually be preferable to take higher risk. Higher returns only come from higher risk assets. Younger investors can benefit from holding higher returning assets for a longer time.

10) Diversification is important to avoid unpredictable risks associated with a single company, such as a major accounting or legal scandal. These are rare, and just 25 different stocks or bonds can avoid such risks. Diversification cuts both ways, and while it reduces risk it can also reduce returns. Think of it like this: in the S&P 500, 250 stocks will be worse than the other 250.

11) It's hard to say what inflation will do in the short term. Tariffs are inflationary according to basic economic theory, but the administration's tariff policy is not clear. If there is an economic slowdown or recession, it might reduce inflation. Historically they tend to be disinflationary. Over the long-term I think inflation will be higher than in previous decades. Inflation is the result of politically expedient policies, and these days pragmatism isn't in vogue.

12) Expectations are for cuts this year, but the timing and quantity is far from certain. However, less than an hour ago inflation data was released showing more than expected.

14) Historically, a retirement nest-egg has been able to safely earn more than 4%. Using a 4% draw in a budget adds a measure of safety. Although this is a widely known rule, it's not easy to achieve. To fund retirement this way from investments alone, it means accumulating 25x annual expenses.

15) I like to recommend a well-researched portfolio of individual stocks. By carefully selecting portfolio holdings, investors can achieve better risk-adjusted returns than an index fund or other passive investments. Investment advisors who practice active management can assist clients with this goal.