Investment | Mark Stephens, AWMA

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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The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Alternative Investments - Going Mainstream

Alternative investments are going mainstream for accredited investors. It’s critical to sort through the complexity.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

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

Impact Investing or Philanthropy

This fun piece can help your clients explore the benefits of impact investing versus founding a philanthropy.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.

How Stocks Work

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

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What Is My Net Worth?

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

Comparing Investments

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

College Savings

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

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Finding the Balance

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

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.

The Cycle of Investing

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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"