Investment
Investing should be easy – just buy low and sell high – but most of us have trouble following that simple advice. There are principles and strategies that may enable you to put together an investment portfolio that reflects your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. Understanding these principles and strategies can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that snare some investors.
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.
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The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Investing with Your Heart
For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
Types of Stock Market Analysis
Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
Asset Allocation
Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
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Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
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Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
The Rule of 72
Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?