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!
What Smart Investors Know

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings for All Seasons

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

The Cycle of Investing

The Cycle of Investing

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

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.

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.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

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

A Look at Diversification

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

The Great Retirement Savings Debate: 401(k) vs. IRA

Viewing 401(k) plans and IRA plans in either/or terms might mean a missed opportunity. You can have both.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

View all articles

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.

What Is the Dividend Yield?

Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

What Is My Net Worth?

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

View all calculators

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.

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

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

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

View all videos