How to Build an Investment Portfolio

How to Build an Investment Portfolio

From The Wallet by Emilie Bellet

February 12, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

This episode discusses how to build an investment portfolio, covering key concepts like asset allocation, diversification, and the differences between stocks and funds.

How do you actually build an investment portfolio, and what is the simplest way to start? In this episode of The Wallet, Emilie Bellet (Vestpod) is joined by Caroline Brady (Net Purpose, ex BlackRock) to break down portfolio building in plain English, from asset allocation and diversification to the difference between stocks and funds. We also cover how ESG and impact investing fit into long-term investing without overcomplicating it. We discuss: Asset allocation vs portfolio construction (simple framework) Stocks vs funds, and why many people start with index funds Risk, diversification, and when to sell ESG vs impact, and how to avoid greenwashing The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Investing carries risk, your capital is at risk. #ad This episode is sponsored by MoneyWeek.  MoneyWeek gives you a clear weekly roundup of the stories, trends and market moves that matter, written by expert journalists and delivered in print or on the app. You can try six issues for free, then enjoy an exclusive £5 discount on a quarterly subscription for The Wallet community at moneyweek.com/wallet with the code WALLET. Connect with Vestpod…

People in this episode

Host: Emilie Bellet

Guest: Caroline Brady

Topics covered

  • investment portfolio
  • asset allocation
  • diversification
  • stocks vs funds
  • ESG investing
  • impact investing
  • risk management

Keywords

  • investment portfolio
  • asset allocation
  • diversification
  • stocks
  • funds
  • ESG
  • impact investing
  • risk
  • greenwashing

Sponsors

MoneyWeek

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Vestpod, Net Purpose, BlackRock

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