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 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 Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
Mutual Funds vs. ETFs
Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
Earnings for All Seasons
Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
Diversification, Patience, and Consistency
Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
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How Compound Interest Works
Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.
What Is My Risk Tolerance?
This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.
Impact of Taxes and Inflation
Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.
Saving for College
This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.
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Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Finding the Balance
The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
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.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.