Investment | Brian S. Graf, CRC®

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.

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.

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Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

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.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

Estimating the Cost of College

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

How Stocks Work

Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.

Inflation and the Real Rate of Return

Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.

How to Conquer the World - 5 Financial Strategies for Savvy

Learn more about women taking control of their finances with this infographic.

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What Is My Net Worth?

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

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.

College Savings

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

Comparing Investments

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

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What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

From Boats to Brokers

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

The Cycle of Investing

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

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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