Investment | Michael Leifeld

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 Real Cost of a Vacation Home

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

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Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

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.

Should I Invest in Gold?

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

A Look at Diversification

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

In the Markets Now: King Cash (and False Security)

Ross explains why cash feels comfortable but is not a wealth-building tool.

Five for Friday – March 20, 2026

Ross looks at consumer tailwinds and headwinds and reminds us of the importance of realistic expectations in investing.

Required Reading: The Economic Report of the President

The Economic Report of the President can help identify the forces driving — or dragging — the economy.

Reg BI - A Win for All Involved

Reg BI increases investor protection while preserving the right to choose who to work with and which services to use.

Modeling Good Financial Behavior for Your Kids

Kids learn to handle money from watching you. Here are 8 ways to show them how to be responsible savers and consumers.

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College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

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.

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Should I Invest in Gold?

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

Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"

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.

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.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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