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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

Global and International Funds

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

Buying a Home

A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.

The Business Cycle

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

• Articles

  A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses

  Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

  How Stocks Work

  Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.

  Best-Performing Asset Classes

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

  All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

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

  The Threat of Identity Theft

  An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

  You Would Rather Be...

  Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

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• Calculators

  Monthly Budget

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

  Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

  Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

  See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.

  How Can I Save a Million Dollars?

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

  What Is My Net Worth?

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

  Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

  Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.

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• Videos

  Emerging Market Opportunities

  What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

  Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

  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?"

  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.

  Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

  The Business Cycle

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

  View all videos