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.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

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Global and International Funds

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

Best-Performing Asset Classes

Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.

From Boats to Brokers

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

Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream

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

The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of

You face a risk for which the market does not compensate you, that can not be easily reduced through diversification.

A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision

Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.

A Primer on Dividends

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

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

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Contributing to an IRA?

Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.

What Is the Dividend Yield?

This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

How Compound Interest Works

Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.

Saving for College

This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.

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Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?

Finding the Balance

The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.