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?
5 Smart Investing Principles
Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.
Have A Question About This Topic?

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?
With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream
Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.

When Markets React
When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.
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.
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.
TIPS for Inflation
If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.
Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro
Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.
The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy
Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.
Estimating the Cost of College
This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.
View all articles
What Is My Risk Tolerance?
This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.
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.
Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings
Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.
Contributing to an IRA?
Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.
Saving for College
This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.
View all calculators
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
View all presentations
The Cycle of Investing
Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.
Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?
There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?
Should I Invest in Gold?
Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.
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.
What Smart Investors Know
Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.