Investment | Balaji Rao

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 Cycle of Investing

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

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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.

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?

International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.

The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy

Learn the advantages of a Net Unrealized Appreciation strategy with this helpful article.

A Look at Diversification

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

Investing with Your Heart

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

Bull & Bear Markets: A Timeline

This helpful infographic will define bull and bear markets, as well as give a historical overview.

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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.

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.

Comparing Investments

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

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Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

From Boats to Brokers

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

Bridging the Confidence Gap

In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

Behavioral Finance

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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?