You think they are in control? Come on, they are controlled
https://pjmedia.com/news-and-politics/matt-margolis/2023/10/21/biden-paid-2-75-million-in-cash-for-beach-house-after-chinese-shakedown-n1736952
Ed McQuarrie talks the REAL History of Stocks and Bond performance.
https://www.morningstar.com/funds/vanguard-wellesley-income-is-top-choice
Could be a great fund to start with starting in retirement and cash. Or use Vanguard Wellington and cash if you want to be more aggresive
https://www.morningstar.com/economy/what-weve-learned-150-years-stock-market-crashes
Take a look at this what has happend in past in stock market