Investment | Ryan Howison, AIF®

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 Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

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What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

How the Federal Reserve Works

Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses

Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro

Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.

You Would Rather Be...

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

Learn about the rise of Impact Investing and how it may benefit you.

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What Is the Dividend Yield?

Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.

Comparing Investments

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

Debt vs. Investment

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

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.

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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

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.

Finding the Balance

The sandwich generation faces unique challenges. For many, meeting needs is a matter of finding a balance.