Selecting Portfolio Assets

Select a combination of the nine assets and create a portfolio in which the expected return is not overly
compromised and the risk (as measured by standard deviation) is lowered. Does it take all nine assets? Does
using all nine produce a better return than just using, say, three?
All -for those asking, I would recommend using the ETF or market funds within following assets classes for
your analysis.
US Equity
US Fixed Income
US Commercial RE
Residential Real Estate
Commodities
Global Equities
Emerging Market Equity
Alternative Investments
Cash (or equivalent)