I understand your desire to seek out successful investment vehicles to place your cash investments.
I think you may be limiting your options from your comments about the stock market. Some of the best short term plays are large up moves in a bear stock market.
It will cost an individual great opportunity if they seek an all or nothing investment plan. This is an American culture trait whether it be in investing or just “I have to have that house, I don’t care what the market is doing”!
So, a suggestion. Don’t remove the stock market or other options as they can be great short term profit generators. Don’t put all of your money there, but try out a few things.