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.

Featured Video

Bridging the Confidence Gap

In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!

• Articles

  Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

  Separating the Signal From the Noise

  A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.

  Investing with Your Heart

  For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

  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.

  TIPS for Inflation

  If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

  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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• Calculators

  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 My Net Worth?

  Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

  College Savings

  See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

  Comparing Investments

  Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

  How Compound Interest Works

  Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.

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• Videos

  The Business Cycle

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

  The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

  What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?

  What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

  $1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

  The Fed and How It Got That Way

  Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.

  Bridging the Confidence Gap

  In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

  Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

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