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

From Boats to Brokers

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

The Cycle of Investing

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

Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline

This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

• Articles

  A Primer on Dividends

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

  The Threat of Identity Theft

  An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

  Types of Stock Market Analysis

  Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.

  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.

  Understanding Equity Compensation

  Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.

  Estimating the Cost of College

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

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• Calculators

  Comparing Investments

  Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

  How Long Will Your Money Last?

  See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

  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.

  How Compound Interest Works

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

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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.

  Behavioral Finance

  An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.

  Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

  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.

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