Investment | Chantal Balcom

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.

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.

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Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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

Diversification, Patience, and Consistency

Three important factors when it comes to your financial life.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

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

A Taxing Story: Capital Gains and Losses

Understanding how capital gains are taxed may help you refine your investment strategies.

Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro

Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.

A Look at Diversification

Diversification is an investment principle designed to manage risk, but it can't prevent against a loss.

Asset Allocation

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

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

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How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

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

How Compound Interest Works

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

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.

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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 Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Investments

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

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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