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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The Cycle of Investing

The Cycle of Investing

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

The Business Cycle

The Business Cycle

Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.

Behavioral Finance

Behavioral Finance

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

Types of Stock Market Analysis

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

Separating the Signal From the Noise

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

The Great Retirement Savings Debate: 401(k) vs. IRA

Viewing 401(k) plans and IRA plans in either/or terms might mean a missed opportunity. You can have both.

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 Primer on Dividends

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

Estimating the Cost of College

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

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What Is My Net Worth?

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

How Can I Save a Million Dollars?

See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.

Monthly Budget

Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.

Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

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Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

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

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?"

Inflation and Your Portfolio

Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.

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