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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Global and International Funds

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

A Primer on Dividends

A Primer on Dividends

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

The Cycle of Investing

The Cycle of Investing

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

Estimating the Cost of College

This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

Value vs. Growth Investing

Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.

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.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses

Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

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College Savings

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

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.

The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do

Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

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Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.

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.

Behavioral Finance

An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

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