We're all ready to put 2020 behind us. But before closing the books, it's worth reflecting on what was a crazy year in the stock market. Here are 6 stunning facts about the stock market in 2020. (more…)
Kristin McKennaMarch 22, 2021
Investors can save over three times as much in a 401(k) compared to an IRA, without even including employer contributions. So, it's little surprise that most Americans rely on employer plans to save for retirement. Given the reliance on 401(k) or 403(b) savings, investors may wonder: should I pay someone…
Kristin McKennaMarch 1, 2021
In uncertain markets, investors often seek fixed income for the relative safety that bonds provide versus riskier assets like equities. But with interest rates declining since the 80s, bond yields have come under pressure, even falling below zero in some markets. Led by Japan and Europe, about 27% of the…
Kristin McKennaFebruary 22, 2021
Whether you're managing your own investments or working with a financial advisor, setting the right asset allocation is key. But what's the best way to apply an asset allocation to multiple investment accounts? Managing your accounts at the portfolio level vs each account individually is advantageous in many situations. A…
Kristin McKennaFebruary 15, 2021
How do bonds work and why buy them in your investment accounts? There are several benefits of investing in bonds. Most notably, bonds provide investors with income, diversification from stocks, and stability compared to riskier asset classes. There's a lot to know about bonds, but here are the bond basics…
Kristin McKennaFebruary 8, 2021
Stocks and bonds differ in many aspects, including the risk and return investors can expect. Because of these differences, stocks and bonds accomplish different things in an asset allocation. When you own a stock, you're buying a piece of equity ownership in the company. With bonds, you're buying the issuer's…
Kristin McKennaJanuary 25, 2021
One of the most important things to know about bonds is how changes in interest rates affect bond prices, and therefore yields (unless held to maturity). The relationship between interest rates, bond prices, and bond yields is based on a few simple investing principles. Bond prices move inversely to interest…
Kristin McKennaJanuary 11, 2021
What is a brokerage account? A brokerage account is a non-retirement investment account. Essentially, a brokerage account is the opposite of a retirement account like an IRA or 401(k) in nearly every way. There are no restrictions (income, investment options, limited additions, access, etc.) or tax benefits. Because there are…
Kristin McKennaSeptember 28, 2020
Can you own too much of your employer's stock? Undoubtedly, yes. Does holding a lot of company stock create the potential for a large windfall? Also, yes. For employees, it can be difficult to know how much company stock is too much. But identifying a concentrated position is often just…
Kristin McKennaSeptember 21, 2020
