An IRA is really nothing more than an account that defers or avoids the taxes in some manner, be it traditional IRA or Roth IRA.http://www.macrotrends.net/2490/sp-500-ytd-performance
http://www.macrotrends.net/2505/dow-jones-ytd-performance
IRAs tend to be pretty conservative and incur fees, therefore have lower returns. With the proper mix of investments higher returns are possible with only moderate risk.
The investment choices held within the account can be as conservative or aggressive as one wishes.