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.

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

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From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

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.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

You Would Rather Be...

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

The Sequence of Returns

A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

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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.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

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.

What Is My Net Worth?

Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

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Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

The Cycle of Investing

Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.

Investments

You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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