What is the safest long-term investment (bonds, stocks, land and houses, gold, etc)?
A diversified portfolio is the best hedge against risk in the long term. All of the investments you mentioned are sound for the long haul — as long as they are solid. Don’t invest on a “hot tip”. learn what makes a “good” investment. learn what a “good” return is, and don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Consider equal percentages in each.
If you are still uncertain as to your long term investments, hiring a CFP (certified financial planner) may be a good move. Only hire one who is impartial (not working for your bank or insurance company, as examples). You will pay them a fee for their advice, and strategy for your investments. Sometimes they have smart ways of managing your money as you get closer to retirement.
You may not be able to prevent market fluctuations, real estate values, or gold prices — but you can build an investment portfolio that can withstand changes in the markets.
Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor or investment counselor. I manage my own portfolio and write about my experiences on my blogs The Chenkin Report and Pocket Change Riches. Learn all you can about your investments and get the best advice you can afford — what works for me may not work for you.
Thanks for the A2A AND BEST OF LUCK WITH YOUR INVESTMENTS!