What is the main benefit of diversification in investment portfolios?

The main benefit of diversification in investment portfolios is that it lowers overall risk by spreading exposure across various assets. By owning a range of assets, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, investors can reduce the impact of any single asset's poor performance on the overall portfolio. This is because different assets often react differently to market conditions; when some investments may be underperforming, others may be doing well, thus balancing the overall returns.

Diversification helps to mitigate risks associated with market volatility and investment loss. It is a fundamental principle in investment strategy, as it provides a buffer against the inherent uncertainties in the market. While it does not eliminate risk entirely, it can significantly lower the degree of risk faced by investors compared to a concentrated investment in a limited number of assets.