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 Fed and How It Got That Way

Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.

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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream

Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

Asset Allocation

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

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

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.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.

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.

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What Is My Net Worth?

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

Comparing Investments

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

College Savings

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

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The Business Cycle

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

Global and International Funds

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

Bursting the Bubble

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