Should I use index funds or actively managed funds for the equity part of my portfolio?

For the equity part of your portfolio, the long-running debate is index funds (which simply track a market and keep costs very low) versus actively managed funds (which try to beat it for a higher fee). The case founders like for index funds is simplicity and low cost: you're not relying on picking a manager who stays ahead after fees, and you spend almost no time on it. Active funds can outperform, but many don't over long periods once costs are counted, and past winners don't reliably stay winners. A busy founder is often better served by low-cost, broad funds that need almost no attention than by chasing performance. Fund costs, categories, and the tax on equity gains change over time, so verify current expense ratios and tax treatment before assuming a specific net return. This is a framework, not a recommendation of any particular fund.