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 Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
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What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
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.
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
Risk Perspective
Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.
Investment Challenges of the Affluent Investor
Affluent investors face unique challenges when putting together an investment strategy. Make sure you keep these in mind.
Mutual Funds vs. ETFs
Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
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Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
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.
College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
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Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?
When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
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.