Investment | Wealth By Design

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.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!

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Behavioral Finance

An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

Bridging the Confidence Gap

In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

Types of Stock Market Analysis

Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.

Earnings for All Seasons

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

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.

A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision

Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

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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.

How Compound Interest Works

Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.

Comparing Investments

Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

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16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

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.

Finding the Balance

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

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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