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 Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

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Bursting the Bubble

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

The Sequence of Returns

A look at how variable rates of return impact investors over time.

From Boats to Brokers

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

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.

The Threat of Identity Theft

An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

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.

TIPS for Inflation

If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.

The Utility of Sector Investing

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

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College Savings

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

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.

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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The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

Behavioral Finance

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

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

Global and International Funds

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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