iVectors
A research-based approach to your TSP
iVectors turns investment research into clear percentages for your TSP funds. Choose a target date to see a model you can compare with your current investments or follow if it fits your needs.
The models use index-based research, with generally gradual allocation changes. This approach is designed for participants who prefer to review their portfolio once or twice a year.
- Free to use. No account or login required.
iVectors at a Glance
- Target Dates:
- Research Approach:
- TSP Funds:
- Publication:
- Suggested Review:
Find an iVector to Explore
Choose roughly when you expect to begin withdrawing money from your TSP. That may be different from when you retire from military or federal service.
Each page shows the current fund percentages and published performance information. The percentages add up to 100%, but some models may not include all five TSP funds.
Index-based research. Percentages you can use.
iVectors studies index-based target date funds from established investment companies. These funds use investments that track market indexes and adjust their mix for different retirement timelines.
Five of the six index-only fund families in the research are selected based on their rankings. Their investment mixes help shape each iVector.
You don’t need to study those outside funds to read the results. Each iVector shows a percentage breakdown using only the TSP’s C, S, I, F, and G Funds.
Different timelines. Different fund mixes.
Models for later target dates generally place more emphasis on stocks for growth. Models for dates closer to withdrawals generally place more emphasis on bonds and government securities.
This changing mix is called a glide path. iVectors follows the glide paths of the index-based funds used in its research, so allocations generally change gradually over time.
How much attention does this approach need?
iVectors is designed for portfolio reviews once or twice a year. Current models are published monthly, but a new publication doesn't necessarily mean the percentages have changed or that you need to make a change.
A review is a chance to compare the latest percentages with your current allocations and consider whether your needs have changed.
Want a more adaptive approach?
aVectors draws on active and index-based research. Allocation changes may be more noticeable, with portfolio reviews at least quarterly.
Ready to Find Your Vector?
Start with when you expect to begin using your TSP savings. Explore the two models for that target date and see how they compare with your current approach.
Independent research. Your decision.
TSPvectors is a free educational resource. The models do not consider your complete financial situation and are not personalized financial advice. Investing involves risk, including the loss of money. iVectors is not guaranteed to outperform aVectors or TSP Lifecycle Funds. Past performance does not guarantee future results. TSPvectors is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board or the Thrift Savings Plan.