Re: Serious question about Bitcoin. Is it a reliable and stable investment?
I think it would be wiser to, per avikz's suggestion....invest the funds into a Portfolio Management Service. I'll have them look into that direction instead. Meanwhile I'll continue to HODL my 0.5 BTC and hope for the best 
Considering that bitcoin is a high-risk investment and that they have no clue what they are doing investment-wise, it is better for them to hire a professional financial advisor. I am sure the advisor can give them better guidance in regards to risk management and choosing the right portfolio for long and short term investments.