Investment | John F. Fricke, CLU, ChFC

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.

TIPS for Inflation

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

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Investment Challenges of the Affluent Investor

Affluent investors face unique challenges when putting together an investment strategy. Make sure you keep these in mind.

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

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

The Great Debate Continues: Active vs. Passive

In investments, one great debate asks the question, “Active or Passive Investing: Which Is Better?”

The Sequence of Returns

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

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

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Comparing Investments

Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

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.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

How Compound Interest Works

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

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The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

Behavioral Finance

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

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.

The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.

From Boats to Brokers

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