In this vein, Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: VRTX) is a good option. Investing well for retirement requires certain knowledge and a clear mindset that you can rely on to successfully allocate $1 million and watch it increase over the long-term. Include a hearty helping of steady growth With $1 million to invest, it's not enough to preserve your funds; you need them to steadily grow to outpace inflation and beyond.