Concerns about the volatility of the stock market, and the prospect of losses during downturn, have convinced many that stock investing is not for them. However, “safer” investments like cash and bonds may not provide the needed returns for your portfolio to overcome inflation. This is where it can help to understand the basic principles … Read more Long Term Investing Tips and Strategies for Beginners
Many of us are conditioned to think that all risk is bad. We hear about putting our money where it can grow “risk free.” The reality, though, is that risk isn’t always a bad thing. Indeed, with risks often come greater rewards. If you really want to get ahead, you need to stop playing it … Read more 3 Good Reasons to Take More Risks
Often, when we think about making money through investing, we think about picking the right stock, and then watching as it goes big, resulting in fantastic capital appreciation. Or, perhaps we think about choosing a solid index fund to provide solid returns over time, building up a nest egg for which the 4% withdrawal rule … Read more Building Income by Investing in Dividends Stocks
It is generally accepted that if you want to be able to grow your wealth more effectively — especially if you want to retire some day — you need to invest your funds rather than sticking them in a checking or savings account. However, before you invest, it is a good idea to take stock … Read more 3 Things to Know Before You Invest
The importance of a fully funded emergency fund can’t be overstated. A rainy day fund acts as a safety net when unexpected expenses arise, and it gives you freedom from living paycheck to paycheck. The problem with most emergency funds, however, is that they are stuck in low interest bearing bank accounts. While there are … Read more CD Laddering: The “Frugal” Way to Build an Emergency Fund
If you are new to investing, or even just getting your personal finances in order, chances are good that you have heard of a Roth IRA. Just about every talking head on TV says you should invest in a Roth IRA, but what many of them fail to do is fully explain the advantages and … Read more Roth IRAs Information for Beginners
Christmas is coming quickly, and if your financial habits are like my past financial habits, you’re starting to wonder how you’re going to pay for Christmas. It’s not a fun feeling, and it’s one I understand. I’m happy to say I’ve changed my ways. And the good news is that you can too. It’s not … Read more Start a Christmas Savings Accounts with SmartyPig
Yesterday the Federal Reserve enacted a rule, which would make it mandatory that banks allow customers opt-in to overdraft protection, rather than automatically enroll customers, as is the current practice. In other words, consumers would have a choice as to whether they get overdraft protection, rather than the banks choosing to enroll them without permission. … Read more You Tell Me: Overdraft Opt-In Rule
Today is the day. Almost two months ago, I declared I would do it. I’m changing banks this afternoon. My husband and I have banked with Washington Mutual, now Chase, for 14 years. It’s time to start a new era of banking. We’ve decided to move our money to South Valley Bank and Trust. It’s … Read more How to Move Your Bank Account to Another Bank
Ever since my banking fiasco, involving my Taylor, Bean, & Whitaker bounced escrow check and the overdraft fees I incurred, but were then reversed by Chase, I’ve been searching for a new bank to park my money. The research has been eye opening, to say the least. I’ve spent hours pouring over fee schedules at … Read more List of Bank Fees to Watch Out For