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.
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.
Types of Stock Market Analysis
Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.
Bursting the Bubble
Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?
A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses
Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.
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.
The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds
Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.
The Business Cycle
Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.
Mutual Funds vs. ETFs
Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.
Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President
The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.
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College Savings
See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
What Is My Net Worth?
Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.
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.
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The Real Cost of a Vacation Home
What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?
From Boats to Brokers
From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.
Behavioral Finance
An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.
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.
The Fed and How It Got That Way
Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.
Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder
Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.