[Anselm24]

Hi,


I am looking for a little help diversifying my investments. I am 27yo and I plan to retire early (be financially independant) e.g. 40-45. I currently have the following investments:


124k in AAPL
50k in MoneyMarketSA @2.68%
5.3k in ALVR
24k in SSMVX via 401k

Vanguard Traditional IRA

18k short term reserves (haven't decide what to put it in yet)
Vanguard GNMA Fund Investor Shares 3.2k
Vanguard 500 Index Fund Investor Shares 6.3k
Vanguard Mid-Cap Index Fund Investor Shares 17.6k

I currently have no debt and about another 4k in my savings account. I have pretty much been winging it although I do know a bit about investment in individual stocks. Can someone explain to me the value of a Roth vs a Traditional IRA (is it just the whole I hope I am in a lower tax bracket when disbursements are made thing)? I don't really understand where to start as far as managing the tax aspects of investments as one nears retirement. Also, if you had the option would you simply manage your own investments or go the mutual fund route? I am risk tolerant as I am young and have quite a few years left till retirement. Thanks for any assistance you can provide and I can provide more details as necessary.