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.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Your Shifting Risk Tolerance
Time and market performance may subtly and slowly imbalance your portfolio.
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.
Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline
This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.
Inflation & Your Money
It's important to understand how inflation is reported and how it can affect investments.
Diversification, Patience, and Consistency
Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.
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Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
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.
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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.