Historical Context · 2004–2026
Why a Little Equity Risk Goes a Long Way
Growth of $10,000 across three strategies over the last 23 years - through two major crashes, a pandemic, and rising rates.
S&P 500
$80k
9.5% / yr
Bonds (Agg)
$20k
3.0% / yr
Money Market
$15k
1.8% / yr
Growth of $10,000 (2004–2026)
- S&P 500
- Bonds (Agg)
- Money Market
📈 Equities Win Long-Term
Despite two crashes, the S&P 500 turned $10k into $80k - 5× more than money market.
âš¡ Volatility Is the Price
2008: −37%. 2022: −18%. Most investors panic-sell at the bottom - locking in losses and missing the recovery.
🛡 Defined Outcomes Bridge the Gap
Participate in equity upside with a defined floor - so you can stay invested through volatility without fear.
Now model your own scenario below 👇
Compare Your Growth
Traditional savings/money market account
Target return from collar or buffer strategy
After 10 Years
Money Market Account
$13,439
3% annual compounding
Defined Outcome Portfolio
XSP$19,672
7% annual compounding · S&P 500 exposure
Additional Wealth Created
$6,232
46.4% more than money market
Why Protection Matters
Better Than You Think
Even with the same return, protection from large drawdowns lets you sleep better and stay invested longer.
Compounding Advantage
Over 10+ years, avoiding 20-30% drops compounds into significant wealth creation vs. recovering from losses.
Tax Efficiency
Options-based structures can offer more favorable tax treatment than ordinary interest income.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and illustrates hypothetical compounding growth. Actual returns from defined outcomes are based on option pricing, market conditions, execution, fees, and holding through the stated outcome period. Outcomes are not guaranteed. Past performance does not indicate future results. This is not investment advice.