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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Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Mutual Funds vs. ETFs
Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?
International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.
Diversification, Patience, and Consistency
Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.
The Utility of Sector Investing
Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
A Primer on Dividends
A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."
All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal
Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.
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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.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
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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.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
What Smart Investors Know
Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?