<prompt> Human: For example, Im looking to open an IRA with Vanguard thanks for the suggestion, PF!. By this point, Im well aware that past performance... but at the same time, theres so much past information listed about each fund example If past performance is so unimportant when it comes to the future of the fund, why do fund providers spend so much time making sure Im aware of it?  <response>: Because you should be aware of the past performance, but also realize that the past performance does not mean you can have those exact results. Kind of like a new employee. They say they did well before, but you have to see if they do well for you. 