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.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.

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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.

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses

Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.

TIPS for Inflation

If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

Asset Allocation

Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

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College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

Comparing Investments

Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

How Compound Interest Works

Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.

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.

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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!

Finding the Balance

The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.