Investment | John Checki

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.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.

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5 Smart Investing Strategies

Getting what you want out of your money may require the right game plan.

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The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

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

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.

How the Federal Reserve Works

Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.

TIPS for Inflation

If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

Asset Allocation

Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.

A Primer on Dividends

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

Best-Performing Asset Classes

Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.

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How Compound Interest Works

Use this calculator to better see the potential impact of compound interest on an asset.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

Saving for College

This calculator can help you estimate how much you should be saving for college.

Impact of Taxes and Inflation

Estimate the potential impact taxes and inflation can have on the purchasing power of an investment.

Contributing to an IRA?

Determine if you are eligible to contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Use this calculator to compare the future value of investments with different tax consequences.

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5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

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Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, “What’s next for the financial markets?”

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Bursting the Bubble

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

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

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

Global and International Funds

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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