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.
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
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.
The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive
In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
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.
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Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
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.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
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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.
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
What Smart Investors Know
Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?