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.

Bursting the Bubble

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

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Behavioral Finance

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

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

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

Understanding Equity Compensation

Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

Learn about the rise of Impact Investing and how it may benefit you.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

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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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.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

Monthly Budget

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

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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Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.

The Cycle of Investing

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

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?"