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.
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
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The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal
Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.
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.
The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of
You face a risk for which the market does not compensate you, that can not be easily reduced through diversification.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
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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.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
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.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
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Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
The Rule of 72
Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.