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.
Have A Question About This Topic?
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
Separating the Signal From the Noise
A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
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.
Best-Performing Asset Classes
Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
You Would Rather Be...
Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.
View all articles
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.
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.
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.
View all calculators
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.