Investment | Bernard McCole

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.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

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The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?

Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

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

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

A Look at Diversification

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

The Threat of Identity Theft

An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

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

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.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

Exchange-traded funds have some things in common with mutual funds, but there are differences, too.

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Wedding Budget Calculator

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.

How Compound Interest Works

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

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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.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

The Business Cycle

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

Behavioral Finance

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