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.
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
What It Takes to Become an Accredited Investor
What does it take to be an accredited investor? Explore the details, & the types of investments offered to those who qualify.
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
TIPS for Inflation
If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
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.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
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.
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
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The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
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Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Where Is the Market Headed?
We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.