Investment | Carly Ford

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.

The Business Cycle

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

Have A Question About This Topic?

From Boats to Brokers

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

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

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

Global and International Funds

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

Inflation and the Real Rate of Return

Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

A Primer on Dividends

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

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.

A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision

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

Types of Stock Market Analysis

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

View all articles

Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

Debt vs. Investment

Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do

Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

How Can I Save a Million Dollars?

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

View all calculators

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

Behavioral Finance

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