Investment | Laura Nelson

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.

Finding the Balance

The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.

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Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline

This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

The Threat of Identity Theft

An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

Your Shifting Risk Tolerance

Time and market performance may subtly and slowly imbalance your portfolio.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

A Look at Diversification

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

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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.

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

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

How Can I Save a Million Dollars?

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

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.

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Global and International Funds

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

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.

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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