See the numbers
before you commit
Visual, data-driven studies on portfolios, fees, and investor behaviour — built from historical-style data, not predictions. Use them to sanity-check simple rules before you commit real money.
Educational content only. Not personalized investment advice. The studies use historical-style data to illustrate trade-offs — not to predict future returns. Investments can lose value. You are responsible for your own financial decisions.
Why investing works — and what to expect
The big-picture case for owning productive assets over time, and what a balanced portfolio actually changes.
Costs compound — fees, cash drag, FX drag
These studies quantify the silent taxes that reduce long-term returns. Small annual leaks compound into large lifetime costs.
What diversification really changes
Studies on diversification mechanics, index selection, and how geographic exposure affects long-term portfolio behaviour.
DCA vs lump sum
Contribution timing: expected value vs psychological comfort. Use this study to pick a strategy you can actually stick with.
How to maintain your risk level
Rebalancing is not about timing the market. It is about keeping your risk exposure stable without constant tinkering.
Yield vs total return
Dividend investing is commonly misunderstood. This study focuses on what actually drives outcomes.
Accumulating vs distributing ETFs
After-tax differences between accumulating and distributing ETFs — when distributions create extra leakage, and when the difference is small.
Build the concepts first, then see the data
Need plain-English concepts first?
If any chart feels abstract, go to the Learn hub for simple explanations of ETFs, diversification, fees, and taxes — then come back here and the data will make more sense.
Ready to apply what you’ve learned?
Once you’re comfortable with risk, fees, and behaviour, move from studies to action: pick a low-cost broker that fits your region and automate as much as possible.
Frequently asked questions
In what order should I go through these studies?
Start with the foundation studies (why invest, 60/40 vs stocks), then move to the costs and drag group (fees, cash drag, FX drag). After that, work through diversification and DCA, then finish with rebalancing and tax drag. If you only have time for three, start with fees compound, diversification basics, and DCA vs lump sum.
Are these studies based on real data or are they made up?
The studies use historical-style monthly total-return paths designed to behave like broad stock, bond, and dividend ETFs. They are meant to show trade-offs clearly, not to recreate one exact historical period tick-by-tick.
How should I combine the studies with the Learn guides?
Learn gives you the concepts; Studies shows the same idea expressed in outcomes. If a chart feels abstract, read the related Learn guide first, then return to the study and the data will make more sense.
Do I need statistics or coding knowledge to use these studies?
No. The charts are pre-built. You compare relative differences: which line ends higher, which has deeper drawdowns, and whether you could tolerate that path for years.
Are these studies investment advice?
No. Educational illustrations only. They do not account for your personal circumstances and do not recommend specific trades or securities.
Start with the numbers that matter most
If you only read three studies, start here — fees compound is the most important one for long-term investors.
QuantRoutine provides educational content only. Nothing on this page is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation to buy or sell any security or to open an account with any specific broker. Investments can lose value, and past performance does not guarantee future results. You are responsible for your own investment, tax, and legal decisions.