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.

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"

• Articles

  Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream

  Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.

  Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

  When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

  Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

  Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?

  Types of Stock Market Analysis

  Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.

  Buying a Home

  A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.

  The Utility of Sector Investing

  Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

  View all articles

• Calculators

  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.

  What Is My Net Worth?

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

  How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

  How Compound Interest Works

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

  View all calculators

• Videos

  What Smart Investors Know

  Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

  Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

  There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

  Bursting the Bubble

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

  Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

  Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

  Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

  View all videos