Investment | Parker Vander Wal

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.

Global and International Funds

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

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What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Understanding Equity Compensation

Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

What’s Your Investment IQ?

You make decisions for your portfolio, but how much do you really know about the products you buy? Try this quiz

Inflation and the Real Rate of Return

Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.

Emotional vs. Strategic Decisions

Information vs. instinct. Are your choices based on evidence of emotion?

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.

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 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.

Comparing Investments

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

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.

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The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

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.

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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