Investment | Eric Smith

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 Fed and How It Got That Way

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

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From Boats to Brokers

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

A Look at Diversification

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

Behavioral Finance

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

Value vs. Growth Investing

Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.

Types of Stock Market Analysis

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

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

Buying a Home

A look at what you need to think about when buying a home.

Estimating the Cost of College

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

TIPS for Inflation

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

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College Savings

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

Comparing Investments

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

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Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

The Cycle of Investing

Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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