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.

Featured Video

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 Sequence of Returns

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

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

• Articles

  Investing for Impact

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

  A Look at Diversification

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

  The Business Cycle

  Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.

  Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

  Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

  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.

  Separating the Signal From the Noise

  A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.

  View all articles

• Calculators

  What Is My Net Worth?

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

  Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

  See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.

  How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

  Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

  How Can I Save a Million Dollars?

  See what it takes in monthly contributions and time to reach a million-dollar savings goal.

  Monthly Budget

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

  View all calculators

• Videos

  Global and International Funds

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

  The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

  The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

  What Smart Investors Know

  Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

  Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

  When Markets React

  When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

  View all videos