There’s a misconception that people need thousands and thousands of dollars before they can start investing. But in today’s world, brokerage accounts can be opened with no initial deposit required, and you can start by buying just one share. That means in many cases your investing journey can start with less than the cost of a DoorDash delivery!

Whether you’re looking to get started or add to an existing portfolio, ultra-low-cost index ETFs are usually the best choice. Many of these give you broad market coverage and make for great core long-term portfolio holdings.

Here are five of my favorites that combine low fees, diversification, smart index construction, and solid long-term track records.

COULD THE VANGUARD S&P 500 ETF BE YOUR TICKET TO BECOMING A STOCK MARKET MILLIONAIRE?

A trader works at his post on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York City, on June 1, 2026.  (Brendan McDermid/Reuters)

1. Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF

The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF is perhaps the best core ETF you can buy. It tracks an index that covers virtually the entire investable U.S. equity market. That’s roughly 3,500 stocks in total across all sizes and industries.

Many investors like to use the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF as the centerpiece of their portfolios. I prefer the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF because I want coverage of the entire U.S. stock market. Mid- and small-cap stocks have different sector compositions and economic influences, along with higher growth potential. That works great from a diversification standpoint.

2. Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF

The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF is my choice for the best dividend ETF because of its robust selection strategy that targets stocks with the best combination of balance sheet quality, long-term dividend growth, and yield.

1 UNDER-THE-RADAR ETF TO INVEST $1,000 IN RIGHT NOW THAT’S OUTPERFORMING MAJOR INDEXES THIS YEAR

A futures-options trader works on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange’s NYSE American (AMEX) in New York City, on June 8, 2026. (Brendan McDermid/Reuters / Reuters)

This fund holds the stocks of many durable companies built to withstand and thrive across multiple economic environments. Plus, its current yield of 3.3% is triple that of the S&P 500 right now and will appeal to folks seeking to draw income from their portfolios.

3. Invesco Nasdaq-100 ETF

The Invesco Nasdaq-100 ETF is one of the more commonly used proxies for the U.S. tech sector. While it’s actually only about two-thirds tech stocks, it includes all of the major tech and artificial intelligence (AI) names that are in favor right now.

Tech and growth stocks are obviously playing a major role in what’s driving U.S. stock market returns. But this segment of the market is usually where the innovation comes from, like we’re seeing with the AI boom right now. This always deserves a spot in long-term portfolios. Plus, the Invesco Nasdaq-100 ETF has a lower expense ratio than its sister fund, the Invesco QQQ ETF.

4. Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF

The Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF invests in the under-appreciated area that exists between large-cap and small-cap. Historically, this segment of the market has delivered competitive risk-adjusted returns and shouldn’t be ignored by investors.

ETF ASSETS ARE SURGING. HERE’S HOW THEY DIFFER FROM MUTUAL FUNDS

While mid-cap stocks have lagged their large-cap counterparts during the AI boom, they’re actually beating the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF by more than 1% year to date. As gains broaden beyond the “Magnificent Seven” names, mid-caps sit in the sweet spot of higher growth potential and lower volatility than smaller, more speculative companies.

5. Vanguard Small-Cap ETF

The Vanguard Small-Cap ETF covers more of a high-risk, high-potential area of the U.S. stock market. These companies may be less developed or unproven, but they’re often fast growers that can turn into home runs under the right circumstances.

This segment of the market tends to have a greater percentage of unprofitable companies. That’s understandable since many of them are still growing, but there’s also the risk that some of these companies don’t make it. Because this fund owns more than 1,300 stocks, the impact of any one company (or even a handful) failing is negligible. A diversified portfolio of these stocks makes the most sense.

All of these ETFs have the characteristics you want in a buy-and-hold fund. They cover different areas of the market, which means they pair well together if needed. They’re low-cost and diversified. For anybody who has even a small amount of money to be put to work, these are five to own.

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David Dierking has positions in Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF, Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF, and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends DoorDash, Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF, and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

This article was written by

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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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The compliance, payroll and financial planning specialists have merged with Kinder Accountants

Cramlington’s Tennick Accountants has merged with a Hereford-based counterpart in a move that doubles the size of the business.

Tennick has joined forces with Kinder Accountants to create a 14-strong team across the North East and Herefordshire sites. The deal is said to mark an important stage in Tennick’s growth, and is part of an ambition to become a larger and better firm.

It was founded by Graeme Tennick in 2012, having worked for PwC and in public sector previously. The company has grown to become a national award winner having scooped both the Xero Small Firm of the Year Award and Accountancy Excellence’s Grand Prix Award for National Small Firm of the Year. Mr Tennick says his firm has been built to help business owners go beyond compliance and use their numbers to create more time, money and freedom.

Meanwhile, Kinder Accountants was founded by Sharon Baker in 2005 and is a digital accountancy firm which has also won awards. The firm takes its name from Ms Baker’s grandmother’s maiden name.

Mr Tennick, founder and chief impact officer at Tennick Accountants, said: “Bringing Kinder Accountants into the Tennick Accountants family is a hugely exciting moment for us. From our earliest conversations with Sharon, it was clear that Kinder shared our values, our approach and our commitment to clients, our teams and the communities around us.

“This gives us the opportunity to strengthen the support we offer, invest further in our people and create even more positive impact for the businesses we work with. For us, growth has never just been about size. It is about being better, creating more opportunities and helping more people improve their lives inside and outside of work.”

Sharon Baker, founder of Kinder Accountants, said: “Joining the Tennick Accountants family is a positive and exciting next chapter for Kinder Accountants, our clients and our team. From the beginning, it was clear that Graeme and the Tennick team shared our values and our commitment to putting people first.

“Kinder Accountants will continue to be Kinder Accountants, with the same care, support and personal service our clients know and trust, now backed by the strength, expertise and energy of a wider team.”

Mr Tennick added: “We are proud of what both firms have achieved so far, and even more excited about what we can now achieve together.”

TUCSON, Ariz. — Speculation continues to swirl online about the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show co-host Savannah Guthrie, more than four months after she vanished from her home in the Catalina Foothills area near Tucson.

No arrests have been made and no suspect has been publicly identified in what authorities describe as an active investigation involving possible abduction. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has emphasized the painstaking nature of processing evidence, particularly DNA analysis from the scene.

Guthrie was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2026. She was reported missing the following day. Security footage reportedly captured images of a masked individual approaching the home that night, adding to the mystery surrounding the case.

Online Speculation and Reddit Discussions

As the case has stretched into June, Reddit threads and other social media platforms have become hubs for amateur analysis and unverified theories. A popular discussion titled along the lines of “What do you think happened to Nancy Guthrie?” features users weighing possible motives and perpetrators.

One contributor suggested the incident involved someone familiar with the family, such as “an acquaintance, stalker, or prior employee (housekeeper, gardener, etc.) who got in too deep.” Others pointed to Google search data showing queries for Guthrie’s address and Savannah Guthrie’s salary from an Arizona-based user weeks before the disappearance.

Forensic details shared publicly, including reports of blood spatter at the residence, have fueled additional conjecture. Some posters theorize a botched robbery or ransom attempt that turned fatal, while others speculate on connections to Savannah Guthrie’s professional work, including interviews with Epstein case survivors.

Authorities have not confirmed or commented on these specific online claims. Sheriff Nanos has noted that the investigation relies heavily on laboratory results and digital evidence analysis, processes that follow strict scientific protocols and cannot be rushed.

Recent Search Efforts in Mexico

Volunteers conducted searches in Mexico in June following an anonymous tip that Guthrie’s remains might be located near the Arizona border. The Buscando Corazones collective in Nogales, Sonora, responded to information suggesting a possible burial site in a stream area near the Mariposa Port of Entry.

The group, known for locating unmarked graves in the region, found no evidence linking to Guthrie despite thorough efforts. Pima County Sheriff’s Department officials later stated they had not been contacted by Mexican authorities regarding any developments tied to the case.

The sheriff’s office addressed circulating online information in an official statement: “At this time, we have not been contacted by Mexican authorities. This investigation remains active and ongoing, and we will continue to follow up on any credible information.”

Investigation Challenges and Updates

Sheriff Nanos has described the probe as “tedious” due to the need for thorough lab work. At the 100-day mark in May, officials indicated that scientific evidence processing and digital media analysis were continuing. Family members, including Savannah Guthrie, have offered a substantial reward for information leading to her mother’s recovery.

Savannah Guthrie has spoken publicly about the emotional toll, returning to work while maintaining hope. In early June, she shared messages emphasizing her commitment to never stopping the search. The family was cleared early on of involvement, according to authorities.

Forensic genealogy and other advanced techniques are reportedly underway. Challenges include separating multiple DNA profiles from the home and analyzing surveillance and digital footprints. The case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile missing persons investigations but stands out due to the victim’s connection to a prominent journalist.

Community and Media Attention

The disappearance has captured widespread attention, with yellow flowers and notes accumulating at the family home as a makeshift memorial. Volunteers and online sleuths have inserted themselves into the story, sometimes leading to tensions with law enforcement. Recent arrests of individuals accused of disrupting the neighborhood highlight ongoing sensitivities around the crime scene.

Experts and former investigators have offered public commentary on potential next steps, stressing the importance of following all leads without premature dismissal. The prolonged timeline has tested community patience, yet officials maintain that steady progress is being made behind the scenes.

Nancy Guthrie’s daily medication for a heart condition was reportedly left behind, raising concerns about her well-being if she remains alive. The family has leaned on faith and public appeals to keep attention focused on finding answers.

Broader Context of Missing Persons Cases

Guthrie’s case is one of thousands of missing persons reports in the United States annually. Her situation highlights the unique challenges when the victim is elderly and the circumstances suggest foul play without clear motive or immediate leads.

Pima County authorities continue coordinating with federal partners, though decisions on the extent of involvement rest with local leadership. FBI Director Kash Patel noted in interviews that assistance was offered early but uptake depends on local protocols.

As summer progresses, the investigation enters a phase where digital analysis, witness statements and potential new tips become critical. The $1 million family reward remains active, underscoring the urgency for resolution.

Public interest shows no signs of waning, with true crime enthusiasts and concerned citizens monitoring developments closely. Reddit and other forums serve as outlets for discussion, though officials caution against misinformation that could hinder the official probe.

The emotional weight on the Guthrie family remains profound. Savannah Guthrie’s return to broadcasting while advocating for her mother’s case has drawn admiration from viewers and colleagues. Her messages emphasize resilience and the power of community support in the face of uncertainty.

Law enforcement urges anyone with credible information to contact the Pima County Sheriff’s Department directly. As the search crosses the five-month threshold, hope persists alongside the grim reality that many such cases evolve slowly toward answers.

The community in Tucson and beyond continues to hold vigils and share information in the hope of bringing Nancy Guthrie home or achieving closure. The case serves as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities even in seemingly secure neighborhoods and the far-reaching impact of high-profile disappearances.