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.
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.
Have A Question About This Topic?
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 Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive
In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”
Bull and Bear Go To Market
Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!
Getting a Head Start on College Savings
A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.
The Utility of Sector Investing
Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.
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.
Inflation and the Real Rate of Return
Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.
Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?
International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.
A Primer on Dividends
A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."
View all articles
Debt vs. Investment
Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.
How Compound Interest Works
Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.
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.
Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You
See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.
Comparing Investments
Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.
What Is the Dividend Yield?
Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.
View all calculators
Bridging the Confidence Gap
In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.
Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.
16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds
Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.
The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing
It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.
Emerging Market Opportunities
What are your options for investing in emerging markets?
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.