Beginners

January 21, 2020 Mutual Funds No Comments

A Guide to Investing in Mutual Funds for Beginners

A Guide to Investing in Mutual Funds for Beginners They allow you to turn the selection of individual stocks, bonds and other investments over to professionals. This makes mutual funds “ideal for those who do not have the time or ability to select … Continue reading at money.usnews.com 3 ETFs to Buy Instead of Popular […]

September 11, 2017 Dividends 16 Comments

Our Guide to Dividend Investing for Beginners

"When gold peaked-out in the 1970s, interest rates were at an all-time high," Lubaszka says. "Right now we're waiting to feel the effects of the last 9 interest rate increases which generally take 6-9 months to begin impacting the economy. Now's the time to buy gold because when rates go up, downward pressure is exerted on real estate, stocks and bonds and commodities like gold tend to increase. The opposite occurs when rates travel from a high to a low. That's the time to reduce gold assets and increase the paper part of a portfolio."

Another is the joint and survivor annuity where it pays you during your lifetime, and after your death your beneficiary (usually your spouse) will also be paid during his or her lifetime.

Ratings are a very important element in trying to distinguish between good and bad funds. Good research, however, goes far beyond just looking for five stars or an A+. When evaluating funds, look at the quantitative, measurable characteristics of a fund: returns up against the benchmark, costs, risks, taxes and manager tenure. Use rating systems as part of your research, but remember: just because the analysts give them top marks, it does not mean they will be the best investment in the future, and doesn't it mean that they'll be the best investment for you in particular. Take the time to understand how the ratings were achieved. This will be the first step to educating yourself about funds.