What is the purpose of diversification in investing?

Diversification in investing serves the primary purpose of reducing risk by spreading investments across various assets. This strategy mitigates the impact of a poor-performing investment on the overall portfolio. When an investor diversifies, they are less exposed to the volatility and uncertainties that may affect a single asset or category of assets. For example, if an investor holds stocks in multiple sectors or industries, a downturn in one sector may be offset by stability or gains in another, thus stabilizing the overall returns.

By diversifying, investors are able to achieve a more balanced approach to risk management, allowing for more consistent performance over time, even if individual investments perform variably. In this way, diversification not only helps in protecting the portfolio but also contributes to achieving long-term investment goals more effectively.