Another offering is Fidelity's FundsManager program, where customers can have professionals arrange a portfolio of managed funds. But even Vanguard is trying to bridge the gap between passive investing and the more active style of today's Web-wise investors. Last month, the company announced it was partnering with Financial Engines, an Internet-based service that provides customized advice and fund choices. It should be a nice fit with Vanguard, as Financial Engines often recommends Vanguard funds because of their low expenses and consistent returns. Despite all the hype about online investing, only about 15 percent of investors research and trade solely online, says Forrester Research.
Most people seek advice as well as surf the Web.
For investors who have a shortage of those and were burned by their own experiments, professional help might be the answer. But April is showing signs of a bloom. It's ugly out there, so stick with quality. Find mutual funds that suit your financial goals with our comprehensive search engine . Access our full coverage of mutual funds .