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.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Thank you! Oops!
The Fed and How It Got That Way

The Fed and How It Got That Way

Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

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

Bridging the Confidence Gap

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

A Look at Diversification

Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.

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.

Estimating the Cost of College

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

Buying a Home

A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

Investing for Impact

Learn how to build a socially conscious investment portfolio and invest in your beliefs.

View all articles

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.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

View all calculators

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?"

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

Behavioral Finance

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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?

Bursting the Bubble

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

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.

View all videos