Investment | Barry Milson

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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Behavioral Finance

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

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

Your Shifting Risk Tolerance

Time and market performance may subtly and slowly imbalance your portfolio.

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.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio

Over time, different investments' performances can shift a portfolio’s intent and risk profile. Rebalancing may be critical.

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

Estimating the Cost of College

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

The Anatomy of an Index

The S&P 500 represents a large portion of the value of the U.S. equity market, it may be worth understanding.

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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.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.

College Savings

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

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.

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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

Behavioral Finance

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

Emerging Market Opportunities

What are your options for investing in emerging markets?

From Boats to Brokers

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

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.