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.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
Estimating the Cost of College
This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.
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 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.
Understanding Equity Compensation
Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
TIPS for Inflation
If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.
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How Compound Interest Works
Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
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.
Monthly Budget
Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.
Impact of Taxes and Inflation
Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.
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Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Global and International Funds
Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
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.
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.