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 Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive
In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”
When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
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.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
Investing with Your Heart
For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.
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Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
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.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
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?
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?"
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.