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.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
How the Federal Reserve Works
Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
The Utility of Sector Investing
Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.
Asset Allocation
Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions
Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?
Types of Stock Market Analysis
Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.
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How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
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.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
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What Smart Investors Know
Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
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.
When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?