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.

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Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

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

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.

Understanding Equity Compensation

Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

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

Value vs. Growth Investing

Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.

A Primer on Dividends

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

A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision

Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.

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Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

Debt vs. Investment

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

College Savings

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

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The Cycle of Investing

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

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.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Bursting the Bubble

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