For most investors, long-term success has less to do with clever stock picking and more to do with controlling costs, managing risk, and staying disciplined. In that context, using investment platforms paired with exchange-traded funds (ETFs) stands out as one of the most effective, transparent, and evidence-based ways to build wealth. 1. Fees Matter More Than Most People Realize Investment returns compound over time—but so do fees. A seemingly small difference in annual cost