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.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal
Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
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.
Estimating the Cost of College
This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.
Earnings for All Seasons
Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
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Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
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Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.