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Definition

Asset Allocation is an approach to managing your investments that involves setting parameters for different asset classes (bonds, real estate, cash, stocks, etc.)  It involves setting a percentage of each kind to hold in order to reach your investment goals.

Why It's Important

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Definition

REITs are Real Estate Investment Trusts.  They allow you to invest in different types of real estate.  REITs are available on the market for any real estate niche whether you want to invest in hotels, apartments, commercial buildings, etc.

Why It's Important

Most people think...

An odd thing happened Friday, I went to the ATM to withdraw money, and I received the message that said, "Unauthorized Use." I thought maybe I put in the wrong pin, so I swiped and tried again. I received the same prompt! What could be going on?! 

I took the next logical step and...

Definition

Compound interest is interest added on to the principal on a deposit or loan so that the added interest also earns interest and so on and so forth.  

Why It's Important

I think Albert Einstein said it best, "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world.  He who...

Definition

Index funds are passively managed, meaning they track an established market index.  One example is the S&P 500 which invests in 500 of the largest companies in a range of industries.  Another example is the Dow Jones Industrial Average, "The Dow", which shows how...

I am always reading about finance (which is hardly news to anyone that knows me).  I have found the ULTIMATE HOME-BUYING GUIDE.  I am in love!

When I say this article breaks down the entire process, I am not over exaggerating.  I admittedly wanted to write an article on my...

Definition

A bull market or a bull run is a financial market in which prices are rising or expected to rise.  Bull markets generally take place when the economy is strengthening.

Why It's Important

We are in the 2nd longest running bull market!  It started after the dip in March 2009...

I wanted to share my Top 6 favorite financial podcasts so far this year! There were so many to choose from so making this list was hard. I am one of those people that listens to podcasts whenever I get the chance whether it's in the car, sitting at my desk, or just cleaning the house, I'm always...

Definition

A risk-reduction method by which you spread your assets among many different investments.

Why It's Important

In the event of a downturn in the market, having sufficient diversification can help you not take too much of a hit.  It is pretty much the adage, "Don't put all your eggs in...

I have been on a networking frenzy this week. With three events down and one to go, I realize a common theme: everyone is struggling with money! As soon as I tell people what I do their eyes light up and they start divulging into how they need financial help. But how did we get here as...