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.

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Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

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

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.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

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

TIPS for Inflation

If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

A Look at Diversification

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

The Sequence of Returns

A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.

The Anatomy of an Index

The S&P 500 represents a large portion of the value of the U.S. equity market, it may be worth understanding.

How Stocks Work

Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.

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How Compound Interest Works

Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.

Impact of Taxes and Inflation

Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.

Saving for College

This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.

What Is the Dividend Yield?

This calculator helps determine your pre-tax and after-tax dividend yield on a particular stock.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

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5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

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Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

The Cycle of Investing

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

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall Street, the stock market has a long and storied history.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

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