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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

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

TIPS for Inflation

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

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

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

• Articles

  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.

  Best-Performing Asset Classes

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

  The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive

  In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”

  How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

  Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

  The Sequence of Returns

  A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.

  Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

  Learn about the rise of Impact Investing and how it may benefit you.

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• Calculators

  Monthly Budget

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

  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.

  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.

  College Savings

  See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

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• Videos

  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.

  Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

  What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

  $1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

  The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

  Global and International Funds

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

  Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

  View all videos