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.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Thank you! Oops!
The Business Cycle

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

Inflation & Your Money

Inflation & Your Money

It's important to understand how inflation is reported and how it can affect investments.

Global and International Funds

Global and International Funds

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

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

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

A Look at Diversification

Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.

Earnings for All Seasons

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

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

Best-Performing Asset Classes

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

Estimating the Cost of College

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

View all articles

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.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

College Savings

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

View all calculators

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

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.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

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.

View all videos