Investment | Gerardo Martin

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.

Behavioral Finance

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

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The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

The Threat of Identity Theft

An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

The Business Cycle

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

TIPS for Inflation

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

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?

A Look at Diversification

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

Best-Performing Asset Classes

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

Investing for Impact

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

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Comparing Investments

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

College Savings

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

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Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.

The Business Cycle

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

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?"