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.

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Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

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

You Would Rather Be...

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.

Emerging Market Opportunities

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

How the Federal Reserve Works

Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.

A Primer on Dividends

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

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

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.

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College Savings

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

Debt vs. Investment

Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

Monthly Budget

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

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Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Global and International Funds

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

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.

Should I Invest in Gold?

Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.

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