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.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
The Sequence of Returns
A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
Getting a Head Start on College Savings
A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.
Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?
International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.
Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions
Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?
Even the most seasoned investors have biases affecting their financial choices.
A Look at Diversification
Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.
View all articles 
What Is My Risk Tolerance?
This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.
Impact of Taxes and Inflation
Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.
How Compound Interest Works
Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.
View all calculators
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.