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.
Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Investing with Your Heart
For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.
Where Is the Market Headed?
We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"
Inflation and the Real Rate of Return
Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.
Value vs. Growth Investing
Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.
Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream
Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets
When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.
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How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
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.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
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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.
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?