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.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
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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?"
Value vs. Growth Investing
Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
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.
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.
Risk Perspective
Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.
The Anatomy of an Index
The S&P 500 represents a large portion of the value of the U.S. equity market, it may be worth understanding.
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
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College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
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Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?