Asset Allocation and a Bumpy Stock Market - By dividing your assets into
stocks, bonds and cash investments based on your time horizons and risk tolerance, you can create a framework for the rest of your
investment decisions. The volatility of the markets makes the need for a solid framework even more necessary.
Dollar Cost Averaging When Buying Mutual Funds - Dollar cost
averaging is one way to address the "when to buy" decision. An example shows how this common technique will eliminate the risk of
"buying at the top of the market".
The Dow Jones Industrial Average - This popular measure of stock
market activity has been around for over 100 years. A little history about this average and you will better appreciate how you should view
daily changes.
Evaluating Investments on an After-Tax Basis - Many
think of tax free bonds when considering the after tax returns. However, investing in stocks can also offer some tax benefits. With the
recent changes to the tax laws, understanding that taxes can erode part of your earnings is important.
Financial Market Indicators - Every investment, and
every individual's portfolio is different. But, knowing which market indicators to watch can help you better understand how your
investments are doing in relation to the overall market.
Interest Rate Risk - With interest rates at the current low
levels, there are benefits of locking in lower rates on your borrowing. However, locking in low rates on your savings may present problems
if interest rates rise.
Investing in Bonds - Bonds can have a place in many
investors' portfolios. There are many issues to consider when evaluating a bond investment strategy. Learn how maturities, ratings and
types of bonds can influence your strategy.
Investing in Exchange Traded Funds - ETFs have become a popular
way to invest. While they are somewhat like mutual funds, there are many differences you should understand before buying them.
Investing in Municipal Bonds - The interest from most bonds
issued by states, cities and other municipal organizations is exempt from federal income tax. Learn whether municipal bonds are right for
you.
Investing in Mutual Funds - Mutual funds have become the
investment vehicle of choice for millions of Americans. This article explains some of the reasons for the popularity and provides some tips
on what to look for when making a mutual fund choice.
Investing in U. S. Treasuries - Many people invest in U. S.
Treasury obligations because of their safety. But, there is more. Learn more about this form of investing to see if it has a place in your
portfolio.
Investments That Delay Taxation - Tax deferral can be
a tool to help your wealth grow more rapidly. Tax deferral lets you earn "interest on your interest" or "growth on your
growth." Learn some ways to take advantage of this concept.
Mutual Funds and Income Taxes - While mutual funds offer
many conveniences, dealing with the income tax consequences of owning mutual funds is seldom simple. This article will help you understand
some of these issues.
Investment Portfolio Diversification - Don't put all
your eggs in one basket" This old adage applies in the investment world too. Learn what spreading the risk can do for you and how to
apply this concept to your investments.
How Well Are Your Investments Doing? - Understanding the
absolute and relative performance of your investment portfolio can help determine if changes are needed. Yet, many people don't spend
the time and effort for this analysis.
Building a Stock Portfolio - Whether you are just starting to
invest or already have a portfolio, reviewing some tried and true portfolio building strategies may be helpful.
Comparing Taxable and Tax-Exempt Bond Yields - Interest on most
municipal bonds is exempt from federal income tax. To determine whether these tax-free bonds are right for you, you must compare the
after-tax returns of similar taxable bonds. A simple chart can help.
Automatic Savings Programs to Reach Your Financial Goals - One
of the simplest and most effective tools to use to reach any savings goal is an automatic savings program. Making the savings decision once
and then letting it work every month can help you save for retirement, for college expenses, a major purchase or any other goal.
Certificates of Deposit for Your Cash Reserves - CDs can be
the investment vehicle of choice for relatively short term cash reserves. Learn how these promissory notes can be part of your total
investment portfolio.
The "Wonder" of Compound Interest - Learn how the
"Rule of 72" can help you make quick estimates of what your money will grow to at different earnings rates.
How Long Will My Money Last? - Understanding the relationship
between withdrawals, earnings rates and time will enable you to better set accumulation goals. A simple chart will help.
The Importance of Saving - There are many things to consider
when saving for the future. No one can control interest rates or accurately predict what will happen in the stock market. The two things
you can control are when you start and how much you save.
Building a Ladder of Savings Certificates - Choosing the length of savings
certificates is important. Longer maturities usually provide higher rates, but with less liquidity. Building a "ladder" of
maturities can result in higher rates without the loss of the liquidity you want.
Mistake to Avoid Not Monitoring Your Financial Progress and Measuring Results -
Taking control of your financial future is a process. As with any process, it is important to monitor your progress and measure your
results. Only then can you make rational decisions to keep doing what you are doing or make changes on your path to your financial
goals.
Mistake to Avoid Not Starting to Save Early for Financial Goals - Accumulating funds for future
retirement needs, college expenses, home purchases or some other large item can be easy to put off. Unfortunately, the longer you delay
starting to save, the more difficult it becomes. Starting early puts time on your side and helps develop some financial discipline.
Building a Savings Nest Egg Cushion - Saving money for unexpected
expenses is never easy. Here are five ideas that can help make saving easier.
Today's Low Interest Rates - Interest rates are at
historic lows. While that is good news for borrowers, it can be bad news for savers. Putting today's rates into perspective may help
you identify some steps to consider.
