S&P 500 struggled from 2000-2008, losing real value while international stocks and bonds gained.

From 2000 to 2008, the S&P 500 delivered minimal nominal returns and lost purchasing power after inflation, while international stocks and bonds provided strong positive real returns. This period included the dot-com crash, 2001 recession, and 2008 financial crisis, showing the risks of relying solely on U.S. stocks. Diversifying across U.S. stocks, international stocks, and bonds, as in a three-fund portfolio, can reduce risk and improve long-term outcomes. Investors should be cautious about assuming continuous strong returns from the S&P 500 alone.

VXUS, representing international stocks, is trading at USD 84.82 with a 1-day gain of 0.86% on Pluang as of Oct 10, 2026, 15:51 WIB, highlighting ongoing interest in global diversification. Meanwhile, BND, a bond market ETF, holds steady at USD 70.22 with no change in the last day, reflecting stable demand for bonds. This current market activity aligns with the article's emphasis on the benefits of diversifying beyond U.S. stocks during volatile periods like 2000 to 2008.