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.
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.
Have A Question About This Topic?
What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.
A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision
Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
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 Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Over time, different investments' performances can shift a portfolio’s intent and risk profile. Rebalancing may be critical.
Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline
This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.
Separating the Signal From the Noise
A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.
Getting a Head Start on College Savings
A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.
View all articles
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
How Long Will Your Money Last?
See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
View all calculators
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?
$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.
The Business Cycle
How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.