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.
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times
All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.
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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
How Stocks Work
Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets
When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
How the Federal Reserve Works
Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
Inflation and the Real Rate of Return
Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.
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College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
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.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
How Can I Save a Million Dollars?
See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.
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The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
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.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
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