Investing
Many financial plans include at least some weighting in stocks and/or mutual funds, and while historically equities have tended to rise in value over the long term, they carry a certain amount of risk, both for long- and short-term investors. It is therefore imperative that you have realistic financial goals and investment objectives in place before you begin to invest.
Calculators
- College Funding
Use this calculator to estimate the cost of your child’s education, based on the variables you input.
- Tax-Deferred Savings
Compare the potential future value of tax-deferred investments to that of taxable investments.
Research Articles
- 529 Lesson Plan: High Scores for 529 Plans
529 plans are tax-advantaged savings plans that generally allow people of any income level to contribute.
- How Can I Save for My Child’s College Education?
There are several funding methods for a child's college education including mutual funds and Section 529 plans.
- How Do Money Market Mutual Funds Work?
Money market funds can be a highly liquid and effective cash management tool.
- What College Investment Options Do I Have?
Starting to invest early for college and remaining consistent can help investors reach their goals.
- What Is a Bond?
A bond is simply evidence of a debt from a government entity or a corporation and represents a long-term IOU.
- What Is a Mutual Fund?
A mutual fund is a collection of stocks, bonds, and other securities with certain benefits and risks.
- What Is an Annuity?
An annuity is a flexible financial vehicle that can help protect against the risk of living a long time because it provides an option for a lifetime income.
- What Is Asset Allocation?
Asset allocation is a method used to help manage investment risk; it does not guarantee a profit or protect against investment loss.
- What Is the Difference Between a Fixed Annuity and a Variable Annuity?
Both fixed and variable annuities could be appropriate options for an individual interested in purchasing an annuity.
- What Stock and Bond Investing Alternatives Do I Have?
There are other ways to invest in stocks and bonds besides owning individual shares or bonds.
Videos
- The Value of a Bond
How interest rate changes influence bond prices.
- What Is Investment Risk?
How different types of risks can adversely affect your investments