Investment | Marc Livernois

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 Business Cycle

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

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The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

A Decision Not Made Is Still a Decision

Investors who put off important investment decisions may face potential consequences to their future financial security.

Should I Invest in Gold?

Learning more about gold and its history may help you decide whether it has a place in your portfolio.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

Estimating the Cost of College

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

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.

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

Learn about the rise of Impact Investing and how it may benefit you.

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.

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Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

Monthly Budget

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

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

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

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

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

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16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

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.

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.

Bull and Bear Go To Market

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