Is It a Good Idea to Borrow in Order to Buy Stocks?

October 28, 2009
 
Is it a good idea to take out a mortgage to buy stocks? What are the risks? How should you prepare for them?
 

Recovering from the Downturn: You Can't Change the Past, but You Can Help Shape the Future

October 7, 2009

Trying to recover from the recent downturn? Following the same old rules can help you shape a new approach to investing.
 

Giving Money to Your Adult Children? Use It as an Introduction to Investing

September 30, 2009
 
An investment account for a child is an asset for his or her future—and a uniquely powerful opportunity to teach them about personal finance.
 

Managing Your Portfolio: What to Think About When You Want to Do-It-Yourself

August 19, 2009

Most people can manage their money just fine without professional help. But some personal financial challenges are harder than others, and don’t be afraid to get the expertise you need.
 

Advice for 20-Somethings: How to Make a Good Financial Start Even Better

July 22, 2009
 
At age 24, with a good job and time on your side, what’s the next smart financial step?
 

Looking for a Safe Port in the Economic Storm

July 1, 2009
 
Are your retirement savings looking a bit battered by the recent economic storm? Take three steps now to protect what you have while preparing for brighter days.
 

In Today’s Market, Where Do You Put Your Cash?

June 24, 2009
 
Where’s the best place to invest available cash? The answer depends on your goals and timeframe, not the state of the market today.
 

Taking the Mystery Out of Diversification

June 17, 2009

Spreading your money across stocks, bonds and cash doesn’t have to be difficult—and it certainly is important!
 

Market Timing: The (Nearly) Impossible Challenge

June 10, 2009
 
When is the right time to go back into the market? A good question that’s virtually impossible to answer.
 

Portfolio Blues: Advice Through the Ages

May 20, 2009

Three readers at very different life stages share a common investing concern. The answer to their questions has a common theme: time.
 

Some Alternatives to the Stock Market: Investing Directly in Your Own Future

February 26, 2009
 
You’re no doubt discouraged by the stock market; is it time to invest in yourself?
 

Diversification: More Important Than Ever

December 4, 2008
 
When you’re nearing retirement, how should your investment strategy respond to falling markets? And how much company stock is too much?
 

Trying to Plan Ahead: Diversifying Retirement Assets by Account Type

October 9, 2008

Most investors know about the importance of portfolio diversification. But is it also important to think about diversification in terms of tax law? 
    

Preparing for the Worst: How Much Should I Save for an Emergency Fund?

September 25, 2008
 
Before you focus on building wealth, make sure you have a financial safety net.
 

Paying Down Your Mortgage: Factors to Consider

February 13, 2008
 
You want to pay off your mortgage—but is that the best way to use your capital?
 

Setting Priorities: Making Investment Decisions for Your Family's Future

January 31, 2008
 
What's more important when it comes to your investing dollar? Building capital for retirement? Or bulking up your kids' 529 balances?
 

Starting Off On The Right Track: Asset Allocation & Strategy Come Before Portfolio Construction

September 13, 2007

Before you start selecting investments, articulate an investment strategy that reflects your goals and time horizon. 
 

What If My "Long Term" Isn't that Long?

August 16, 2007
 
Investment strategy for older people changes, but it's still driven by their investment goals.
 

Asset Allocation & the "Big Picture" View of Your Portfolio

July 19, 2007

Asset allocation is an essential component of the investing process—but how do you actually calculate your allocation across multiple portfolios and accounts?
 

You Know You Need To Reduce Your Exposure To One Stock—But How?

May 31, 2007

If you're overexposed to your company’s stock, should you sell it off in one fell swoop or divest it over time?
  

Getting in the (Front) Door: Buying Your First Home

May 24, 2007

Home ownership has long been an element of the American Dream. But is it always a good financial move?
 

Don't Let Loyalty Cloud Your Investment Strategy

August 31, 2006

For millions of workers, company stock is a way to build wealth. But how much is too much when it comes to your portfolio's health?
 

Risk and Reward Go Hand-in-Hand

August 17, 2006
 
When you hear about above-average investment returns, is your first thought "How can I get in on that?" Keep your eye on the long-term!
 

Online Security: How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

March 23, 2006
 
Unauthorized access to your financial accounts and identity thefts are potential nightmares. Here are few ways to enhance the security of your assets and accounts.
 

Which Is Best for Me: A Target Fund or an Advice Service?

March 9, 2006
 
Some people use target funds to automatically adjust their asset allocation; others use advisory services. What's the right approach for your portfolio?