Investment | Don Roork

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.

Should I Invest in Gold?

Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.

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Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

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

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

Impact Investing or Philanthropy

This fun piece can help your clients explore the benefits of impact investing versus founding a philanthropy.

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.

TIPS for Inflation

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

Estimating the Cost of College

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

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.

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How Compound Interest Works

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

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

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

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.

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.

Monthly Budget

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

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The Cycle of Investing

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

From Boats to Brokers

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

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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