Investment | Ben Haymart, CFP

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.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

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Global and International Funds

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

Investing with Your Heart

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of

You face a risk for which the market does not compensate you, that can not be easily reduced through diversification.

Personalize Your Wealth Strategy with Diverse Investments

Wondering if there's one right way to invest? Learn why a personalized approach can help you pursue your financial goals.

The Great Retirement Savings Debate: 401(k) vs. IRA

Viewing 401(k) plans and IRA plans in either/or terms might mean a missed opportunity. You can have both.

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

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

Types of Stock Market Analysis

Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.

Value vs. Growth Investing

Among stock-market investors there’s long been a debate between those who favor value and those who favor growth.

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Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

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

What Is the Dividend Yield?

Calculate the dividend yield of a holding and see what that means for income over time.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

College Savings

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

Monthly Budget

Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.

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Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

From Boats to Brokers

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

Finding the Balance

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