Over the past few years, exchange traded funds (ETFs) have gained wider recognition among retail investors and become a staple in the portfolios of many individuals. In addition to its flexibility and transparency, the ETF s ability to track asset classes besides stocks and bondsâ such as commodities and currenciesâ has allowed investors to own a liquid, diversified portfolio for a minimal investment.

Respected ETF expert and journalist Lawrence Carrel knows how effective this financial product can be, and now, with ETFs for the Long Run, he ll show what they are and how they workâ as well as outline simple strategies you can use to incorporate them into your investment endeavors.

The journey begins with a brief history of ETFs, who the industry leaders are, and how they got there. After this introduction, you ll become familiar with the fundamental differences between ETFs and other types of investments, such as mutual funds. You ll also discover the advantages that an ETF s indexing structure has over an actively managed product.

With this information in hand, you ll be prepared to delve into the nuts and bolts of the ETF and see why it s one of the most efficient ways to gain exposure to today s market. Page by page, Carrel skillfully examines the unparalleled benefits associated with ETFs, explores new exchange traded vehicles (ETVs)â which are very similar to ETFsâ and addresses innovations within this area that have created more diverse opportunities for today s individual investor. Along the way, Carrel also reminds us that while a fund s returns can t be known ahead of time, its costs canâ so focusing on cutting those costs can save you thousands of dollars down the road.

Rounding out this detailed discussion of ETFs are two chapters dedicated to building your own ETF portfolio, touching on everything from the mechanics of trading to designing asset allocation strategies. Here, Carrel calls upon a select group of financial professionals to help you understand a wide variety of portfolio construction possibilities and implement the ones that best suit your investment style.

The basic challenge that every investor faces is creating a broadly diversified portfolio for the least amount of money. ETFs can help you achieve this goal, and ETFs for the Long Run will show you exactly how.