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.

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It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

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.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.

Four Really Good Reasons to Invest

There are four very good reasons to start investing. Do you know what they are?

The Pros and Cons of a NUA Strategy

Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.

Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro

Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.

The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive

In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”

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Saving for College

This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.

How Compound Interest Works

Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.

Contributing to an IRA?

Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.

Impact of Taxes and Inflation

Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

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5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

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 Cycle of Investing

Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

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