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.
Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
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Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
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?"
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive
In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”
A Primer on Dividends
A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."
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How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
Student Loan Refinance Calculator
Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
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Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?