Investment | Bridgespan

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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Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Earnings for All Seasons

Earnings season can move markets. What is it and why is it important?

From Boats to Brokers

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

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

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

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.

You Would Rather Be...

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

Mutual Funds vs. ETFs

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

How to Conquer the World - 5 Financial Strategies for Savvy

Learn more about women taking control of their finances with this infographic.

Asset Allocation

Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.

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Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

College Savings

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

What Is the Dividend Yield?

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

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

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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The Business Cycle

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

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Finding the Balance

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

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

From Boats to Brokers

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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