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.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Thank you! Oops!
When Markets React

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline

Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline

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

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

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.

Understanding ETFs: Building Blocks of Modern Investing

Educational ETF infographic explaining benefits, types & mechanics. Features current statistics and citations.

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.

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.

Investing for Impact

Learn how to build a socially conscious investment portfolio and invest in your beliefs.

Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?

International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.

Estimating the Cost of College

This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.

View all articles

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.

How Compound Interest Works

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

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

What Is My Net Worth?

Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

View all calculators

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

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?

From Boats to Brokers

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

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

View all videos