The Importance of Asset Allocation

This presentation includes a discussion of a hypothetical illustration. These returns are for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect actual (product) performance.

The asset classes described in this video carry unique risks. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

This material has been prepared by and represents the views of Brett Hammond, and does not reflect the views of any TIAA-CREF affiliate. These views may change in response to changing economic and market conditions. Any projections included in this material are for asset classes only, and do not reflect the experience of any product or service offered by TIAA-CREF. The material is for informational purposes only and should not be regarded as a recommendation or an offer to buy or sell any product or service.

Alternative investments (including private equity) may be subject to the risks of leverage and speculative trading, and carry higher expenses than traditional investment vehicles. Real estate investing involves risk such as fluctuations in property values, higher expenses or lower income than expected, and potential environmental problems and liability. Commodity investing involves risks such as sharp fluctuations in commodity prices, extensive use of leverage and potential illiquidity of commodity investments. Investing in foreign securities involves special risks, including currency fluctuation and political and economic instability.

In addition to asset allocation risk, LifeCycle Funds are subject to the risks associated with the types of securities held by each of its underlying funds. Rebalancing does not protect against losses or guarantee that an investor's goal will be met. Diversification is a technique to help reduce risk. There is no absolute guarantee that diversification will protect against a loss of income.

Brett Hammond is available to comment on economic data. Please contact Chad Peterson, Media Relations, 212 916-4808 or email cpeterson@tiaa-cref.org. TIAA-CREF Asset Management is a division of Teachers Advisors, Inc., a registered investment advisor and wholly owned subsidiary of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association (TIAA). TIAA® personnel in its investment management area provide investment advice and portfolio management services through the following entities: Teachers Advisors, Inc., TIAA-CREF Investment Management, LLC, and Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association® (TIAA®). TIAA, TIAA-CREF, Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association, TIAA-CREF Asset Management and FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR THE GREATER GOOD are registered trademarks of Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association.