Investment | Gary Drake

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 Fed and How It Got That Way

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

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Investments

You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

Behavioral Finance

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

The Pros and Cons of an NUA Strategy

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

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?

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.

Estimating the Cost of College

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

Types of Stock Market Analysis

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

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How Compound Interest Works

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

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.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

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What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

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.

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.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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