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.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
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?"
Do Our Biases Affect Our Financial Choices?
Even the most seasoned investors have biases affecting their financial choices.
Investing with Your Heart
For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.
How Stocks Work
Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.
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.
Asset Allocation
Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.
How Financial Professionals Are Compensated
Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.
View all articles 
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do
Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.
Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments
See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.
Wedding Budget Calculator
Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
View all calculators
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
Inflation and Your Portfolio
Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.