coolnepali...also do " investor profile " to find out risk factor. or here is a more effective way, ask them how much of 1.8 M can they affort to loose.if they say 900K,(WHICH IS 50%) then you invest 50 % in stock , 50% in(bonds, cash, RS, money market). Here as an example, fo someone who doesnt wanna take rish, but want modest growth over inflation. Stock/Mutual Fund Total---------------------------35% Large Vlaue-Large Blend (15%) Mid/Small Cap (8) Foreigh (8%) Real Estate (2%) Precious Metals (2%) Bond Total.........................55% Short to intermediate Term(30%) Inflation Indexed (20%) Foreigh (5%) Cash and Equlivalent..............10%