Should I use robo advisor, ireland domiciled etf or VOO to buy into index funds that track S&P500?

Hi Anon,

It really depends on your preference! If you've done your homework about investing and brokers and feel comfortable with DIY investing, then I'd say you can skip Robos altogether. However, if you're feeling uncomfortable starting out on your own, and will feel safer investing with Robos to manage your portfolio for you, then go with a Robo.

As for VOO or CSPX (Ireland-domiciled version of VOO), I personally think VOO is the better choice if you lack capital. To invest in CSPX, you need a broker with access to LSE. The best brokers for this are IBKR and SC Online. IBKR charges a lower commission, but charges a monthly fee for users who have assets less than 100k USD, which is going to take a while to earn for most people. Meanwhile, SC Online charges no monthly fees but a high commission fee. When you're starting out with investing, you probably want to invest as much as you can afford, as soon as you can afford to. But investing too frequently with SC Online means you will be paying ridiculous commission fees.

By investing in VOO, you can use a low-cost broker like Tiger or Moomoo. The savings you enjoy on commission will outweigh the tax advantages that CSPX offers, IMO. Not to mention that both Tiger and Moomoo have ongoing signup promotions where you can get a free share of Apple or Starbucks - which just makes them even more attractive.

Hope this helps & all the best!

Regards,

thefrugalstudent