Lavine/Liberman Archive

Alan Lavine and Gail Liberman are husband and wife columnists and authors of The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Making Money With Mutual Funds (Alpha Books).

BEWARE OF END-OF-THE-YEAR MUTUAL FUND INVESTING TRAPSThe end of the year is when mutual fund investors stand to make more mistakes than any other time. That's because there are several do's and…Commentary
401 (K) MUTUAL FUNDS BETTER THAN RETAIL FUNDSGuess what? Mutual funds in 401 (k) plans and those bought through financial advisers may be outperforming mutual funds bought directly from…Commentary
THINK POSITIVEStocks have historically grown at an 11 percent annual rate. But what a way to earn 11 percent!Commentary
FUNDS THAT TAKE LESS RISK AND EARN MOREIf you could earn 80 percent of the return on the stock market when it does well without losing your shirt in a down market would you do it?Commentary
STAYING PUT IMPROVES INVESTMENT PERFORMANCEHow long do you hold your mutual funds? One, three, five or 10 years?Commentary
HIGH RETURN LOWER-RISK STOCK FUNDSIf you could earn the same return as the average stock fund and lose less on the downside, would you do it?Commentary
WHAT'S UP THIS YEARThe big question. What are we going to earn on stocks and bonds this year? A few experts suggest what to expect.Commentary
IT'S TOUGHER TO FIND NO-LOAD FUNDSAnother no-load mutual fund group bites the dust.Commentary
UNDERVALUED SMALL STOCKSThese days, the over-the-counter stock market is the only place to find rising stock prices. Many companies listed there are beaten-down small…Commentary
WAYS TO PLAY THE MARKET THIS YEAR?Looking to make a quick market killing in 2002?Commentary
RATES COULD STAY LOWSome investment pros look for higher interest rates this year due to an economic rebound.Commentary
GROWTH FUNDS SPORT ATTRACTIVE HOLDINGSWhat's up with growth stock funds? On average they have lost over 40 percent the past two years.Commentary
AVOIDING GUT-WRENCHING FUND GYRATIONSWhen a fund manager owns stocks that are in favor, that fund manager is a star. When the same stocks are out a favor, that same manager can be a…Commentary
GOLD IS BACK IN FAVORIs gold back in favor? Yes, for a while. But how long will in last? Gold and gold mining stocks have a negative relationship to stocks. For that…Commentary
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR FUND OWNED ENRONOne reader writes that he is worried because his stock fund owned Enron.Commentary
PROS ADDING MORE TO STOCKSWhat are the pros doing now? Most investors are running to bonds for safety. But Van Harissis, manager of the Sentinel Balance Funds, is doing the…Commentary
FUND RETURNS CHANGE OVER THE YEARSHow quickly mutual fund performance numbers change!Commentary
HOT NEWSLETTERS' BEST FUND PICKSSo what is the best-performing mutual fund newsletter recommending these days?Commentary
GET MORE MILEAGE OUT OF YOUR INVESTMENTSWant to boost the return on your mutual fund investments? Here are some simple ways to do it.Commentary
FAMILY FINANCES - INVESTMENT TIPS TO GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE NEXT DECADE- Gail Liberman and Alan LavineCommentary
Now's The Time For Inflation Index BondsStandard & Poor's Outlook, a New York-based newsletter, recommends that conservative investors who own bonds should keep part of their investments…Commentary
Does it make sense to invest in China?The country is a major exporter. It may have the largestpersonal computer market in the world in a few years. China's $10billion computer chip…Commentary
Investments to AvoidSometimes making money means not losing it. Here are few tips on to avoid losing money in the financial markets.Commentary
Expect Less In the Financial MarketsThose high double-digit stock returns of the 1990s are a thing of the past.Commentary
How Companies LieThey ought to teach those MBAs ethics in business school. Then, just maybe, we wouldn't have so many problems with fuzzy numbers that corporations…Commentary
International Bonds Do Well If U.S. Dollar WeakensIt makes sense that many have turned to bonds as a safe haven from the volatile stock market. Bonds typically perform well when stocks plunge.Commentary
Hedge Fund For The Little GuysWhen it comes to investing, it never hurts to hedge your bets. Institutional investors like pension funds, insurance companies and very wealthy…Commentary
Using Morningstar's New Ratings To Pick WinnersAre Morningstar's mutual fund ratings worth it?Commentary
Easy way to buy low and sell highBuying low and selling high works. The big question: When is a mutual fund at its low and when does it hit its high? It's not so easy to tell.Commentary
It never hurts to play it safeThe markets are extra volatile and unstable these days.Commentary
Mutual funds are not what they used to beThings sure have changed in the last two decades. And that could be why stock funds are performing so poorly.Commentary
Mutual funds are not what they used to beSo many people tell us that they are mental midgets when it comes to the complicated world of investing. But actually, simplicity is the key to…Commentary
Time To Take Inventory of Your InvestmentsIf you're like many investors you've probably picked up a few extra mutual funds over the years based on their hot performance. But owning too…Commentary
Foreign Stocks May Lead The WayCould this be the year that international funds lead the way? Some analysts and money managers think so. But don't bet the ranch on the overseas…Commentary
Dividends Look Good TodayLook to stocks that pay dividends. Weve been rocked by so many accounting scandals that today it may be better to invest in companies that pass…Commentary
Asian stocks seen as bargainRobert Conlon, manager of the Investec Asia Focus Fund, says that U.S. stocks still are too expensive based on future corporate earnings. But…Commentary
Bonds can be risky tooAre you finally getting around to investing in bonds?Commentary
Learn from your investment mistakesWhen it comes to investing, we all seem to make the same mistakes. Hopefully, we can learn from them.Commentary
Coping with the stock marketThe best advice I've heard about the stock market was written in the 19th century by Mark Twain.Commentary
Fund looks for steady income and growthIn this day and age, it's always good to get some income as well as growth from your investment.Commentary
Advice from the past rings true todayIf Ben Graham, father of modern security analysis, were alive today, what would he advise investors?Commentary
Forget About Hedge FundsMutual fund companies are coming out with so-called "hedge funds" designed to limit losses in the stock market.Commentary
Growth stocks will eventually come backFeel like throwing in the towel because your growth stocks are doing so poorly?Commentary
Will stocks rebound?A recent Conference Board report indicated that its monthly consumer--confidence index fell 1.3 percent in September to 1.3 percent--its fourth…Commentary
Active versus buy and hold investingThe market declines over the last 2 3/4 years seem to have made a stronger case for active investing over passive investing.Commentary
How a war would impact investmentsWhat can we expect if we go to war with Iraq?Commentary
Money managers with lots of cash to investInvesting in stock funds with a lot of cash may be the best way to get back into the stock market.Commentary
Watch Those Mutual Fund ExpensesIt's not fair. Stock funds are losing money, but mutual fund companies are raising their expenses.Commentary
Top-rated small stock fund managers optimisticTop-rated small company stock fund managers are anxiously awaiting the stock market rebound.Commentary
Fund Managers are Good Stock Pickers but Expenses Kill ReturnsWant to outperform the market with actively managed stock funds?Commentary
Ok To Buy Mutual Funds At Year EndThis year it is O.K. to buy mutual funds at year-end. In most years, it's not.Commentary
New Year's Mutual Fund ResolutionsIt may be a bit early to plan for the new year, but given last year's investment performance, an early start may be necessary.Here are some…Commentary
So what do the newsletter investment gurus have to say about 2003Sheldon Jacobs, editor of The No-Load Fund Investor, Ardsley, N.Y., says to stay away from long-term bond funds. The reason: Interest rates could…Commentary
Go Global for BondsForeign bond funds may be a way to earn high yields and positive returns over the next few yearsCommentary
2003 Could Be an Unusual YearWall Streeters largely say that we should experience a stronger economy and higher stock prices in 2003.Commentary
Investment Trends for 2003The month of January could tell how the stock market will perform the rest of this year.Commentary
Think DiversificationChances are there would be less moaning about how much people lost in the three-year bear market if they paid attention to the bottom line of…Commentary
Investments That Benefit From The Repeal of Taxes on DividendsWho knows what the Bush tax cuts will look like after Congress gets a hold of it?Commentary
Al Frank Fund Goes No-LoadAl Frank is making it easier for investors to get in on his stock picking action. He is converting his Al Frank Fund to a no-load fund from one…Commentary
High-yield Bonds Look Good Later in the YearThe name of the game is risk and reward. Sometimes you take the risk and you profit. Other times you can lose your shirt.Commentary
Are overseas stocks going to make a comeback?Do you still buy the argument that foreign stocks help reduce the risk and increase the return of your investment portfolio?Commentary
Preferred Stocks for Higher YieldsAre preferred stocks for you? They yield 8 percent or more.Commentary
What Investments will Do WellWill last year's winning mutual funds be this year's winners?Commentary
Stocks Go in CyclesAlmost everyone thinks it will drop due to terrorism and a war with Iraq. But then again, it could rise if the war is over fast and the economy…Commentary
Rebalancing reduces riskIn the wake of the three-year bear market that has seen stocks drop almost 50 percent, it is important to practice whats known as "asset…Commentary
Rebalancing reduces riskConsider evaluating mutual fund managers based on more than the past performance figures of their funds, say a group of finance professors. The…Commentary
Beware of Past Performance InformationAre you using Morningstar or other mutual fund data services to evaluate, pick or buy and sell mutual funds? If so, be aware that the information…Commentary
What to do with Your Bonds NowInterest rates and inflation are at record lows. Chances are both will rise in the future. After all, what goes down must come up. When? No one…Commentary
Closed-end municipal bond funds pay high yieldsInvesting in tax-free bonds isn't as safe as it used to be. States are running big budget deficits. And if interest rates rise, bond prices will fall.Commentary
Is the war getting you down about investing?Some are concerned that the situation in Iraq could throw the economy into another recession. That spells bad news for stocks and good news for…Commentary
Expect Less from Real Estate Stock FundsAttracted to those 4 percent to 7 percent yields on real estate stock funds?Commentary
Getting in on Takeover ActionDo you want to get in on the takeover action?Commentary
New Commodity-linked Funds Act as HedgesInvestors now have a couple of options if they want to hedge their portfolios with commodities.Commentary
Keep your Investment Taxes to a MinimumU.S. mutual fund investors paid an estimate $8.6 billion in taxes in 2002, according to a study by Lipper Inc., a New York-based research firm.Commentary
Real Estate Operating Companies have PotentialIt's no wonder that most investors, looking for real estate investments, buy Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) for income. REITs, publicly…Commentary
Risk measures to review before you investAre we finally going to see a good year in the stock market?Commentary
A Lesson on Index Fund InvestingShould you invest in an index fund that owns all the stocks thatmake up the S&P 500?Commentary
Best-rated Sector FundsAre you a brave soul that wants to profit from investing in a specific industry? Then maybe it's best to invest in a sector fund rather than chase…Commentary
What to do if the Fed Cuts Rates AgainIf the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates again, our money funds and bank Money Market Accounts might pay us about one-half of one percent if…Commentary
Protecting your PrincipalOf course, the utopian investment is one that lets you invest in stock mutual funds and not lose any money. Today, you can do that through a…Commentary
Mutual Fund Provides Steady ReturnsWe all need a keystone in our mutual fund portfolio-- a well-managed stock fund that delivers steadier returns than most other funds? Paul…Commentary
Leading Investment Adviser Cautiously Optimistic About Stock FundsIt's about time. The stock market had a great first half of the year. Will it continue?Commentary
Where To Get Higher YieldsLook for higher yields? Who isn¹t now that money market fund rates are near zero.Commentary
Spread Your Risk In The Bond MarketWhat's an income investor to do? You can leave your money in money market mutual funds or bank CDs. But you won't earn enough income. By contrast,…Commentary
Will Small Company Stocks Continue to Beat the Market?Small company stocks have led the way in this year's bull market. The Russell 2000, a index of small company stocks, was up over 19 percent at…Commentary
How to Pick Stable Mutual FundsWe need to do a better job staying put when we invest in mutual funds.Commentary
Get Income and Growth From Dividend Paying Stock FundsDividends are what count today. You can own a stock that pays 2 to 3 percent, plus there is an opportunity that the stock price will grow if the…Commentary
Before Buying Mutual Fund, Interview Your BrokerBefore your purchase a mutual fund from a broker, ask a ton of questions.Commentary
Here's What To Do For The Rest Of The YearSo what's in store for stocks, bonds and the economy the rest of the year?Commentary
Bond Investment StrategiesWe've already seen some damage. Interest rates are up more than 1 percent this year. As a result, the value of the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond has…Commentary
Asian Funds Bouncing BackThe average mutual fund that invests in Asia has grown at an 8.3 percent annual rate over the past five years. By contrast, U.S. stocks, as…Commentary
Family Finances: Settling a Brokerage Firm DisputeWe don't know about you, but we hate to sign those brokerage firm agreements that say we must agree to arbitration if we have a dispute. If there…Commentary
Solid Stock Fund Manager Likes Financial StocksThe no-load Selected American Shares Fund has grown at an attractive 12.1 percent annual rate over the past 10 years.Commentary
Low-risk Ways To InvestLooking to earn halfway between the return on stocks and bonds?Commentary
Real Estate Stocks Still Doing WellSo what's the scoop on real estate investments?Commentary
New "Active" Dividend Fund Capitalizes On Tax LawsIn this day and age of low interest rates and rising stock prices, analysts say stock dividends look good. But the trick is to find high…Commentary
Fair Value Pricing Solution To Market TimersIf you have invested in international stock funds over the past few years, your fund's return may not be as high as it should have been.Commentary
Market Timing Of Mutual Funds May Become ExtinctIf you use market timing to invest in mutual funds, your days may be numbered.Due to all the bad news about market timing, mutual funds could…Commentary
Buy And Hold Investing Can Pay OffThere's been a lot of talk lately about all the profits that were made by market timing. But new research reinforces the old school of thought.…Commentary
Higher Dividends Should Make For A Good SeasonGood news. Corporations are raising their dividends this year. That means you can indulge in the finer things in life a bit more this season…Commentary
How To Deal With Mutual Funds And TaxesThinking of dumping a mutual fund that is under investigation and buying a new one?Commentary
How To Ladder Bonds For Less RiskIf you are investing in bonds, be careful! Analysts predict interest rates will rise and bond prices will fall.Commentary
End-of-the-year Investment Check-upIt's a good idea to compare how your investments have performed against the averages. If you've done slightly above or below the averages, there's…Commentary
Hedging Your Bets In 2004Will this year's stock market do as well as last year's?Commentary
Watch This Asia FundWhen the Matthews Funds launches a new overseas fund, it's worth a look. The San Francisco-based investment company line-up of Asian and Far…Commentary
Year Beginning PitfallsA word to the wise: Stay well-diversified in stocks, bonds, cash and other investments, like precious metals and real estate.Commentary
Tips on Managing your HoldingsWhat determines most of your investment returns? Is it the type of assets you own or your stock or bond picking ability?Commentary
Timing the MarketMany investors who speculate on stocks or common stock funds use market timing systems that track price and economic trends to get in and out of…Commentary
Fund Manager: High-Yield Bonds To Outpace Other BondsHigh-yield bonds could outperform other types of bonds this year, according to Pax World High-Yield Bond Fund Manager Diane Keefe.Commentary
What Sectors Of The Stock Market Should Do Well This Year?A report by Edwin D. Everett, of David L. Babson & Co., Boston highlights some of the best and worst business sectors.Commentary
Overseas Stocks Look GoodMoney managers like the overseas markets better than the U.S. markets. The reasons:Commentary
Top Analyst Predicts Good Years Ahead For StocksWhat can you expect to earn in stocks, bonds and cash for the next several years?Commentary
Watch Out For Fund Redemption FeesWonders never cease. The mutual fund powers that be in their infinite wisdom are instituting redemption fees on their funds. Typically, if you…Commentary
Takeover Mutual FundsBefore you invest in a mutual fund that owns stocks that could be acquired, take a close look at the fund and how it invests. If you invest in the…Commentary
All-In-One Pension Plan Makes it Easy to InvestInsurance companies have come up with a new way to invest for your retirement. But is it for you?Commentary
Getting The Best Low-Risk ReturnsExpect to hear some fancy buzzwords from your broker,financial planner or financial adviser. They are, "Portfoliooptimization."Commentary
Forget Market TimingThere has been lots of fuss lately over big-time investors cutting deals with mutual funds to time the markets.Commentary
Getting Ready For InflationIt never hurts to be prepared when it comes to inflation.Commentary
Market Cycles Tell Market DirectionStock analysts that look at trends say the current pull back in stock prices will lead to higher returns for the rest of the year. Others say the…Commentary
Critical To Investing In Bonds: Understanding ThemIf you're a seasoned investor, there's a chance you may know how bonds work. But most investors don't.Commentary
Stocks Hurt By Rising Interest RatesAs interest rates rise, expect some types of stocks to get hurt more than others.Commentary
Fund InsightsIf you'd like to put some fresh cash into stock funds, consider a small mutual fund--one that has just a few hundred million dollars in assets.…Commentary
What To Do About Rising Interest Rates?Interest rates are rising. Since bond prices and interest rates move in opposite directions, bond prices are dropping.Commentary
Money Market Funds Catch Rising Interest Rates?If interest rates keep rising, money market mutual funds become attractive. But as with any investment, it pays to know how to get the most bang…Commentary
Adjustable Rate Bond Funds Protect Against Rising Interest RatesNow that interest rates are on the rise, adjustable rate bond funds might be an attractive place to park some cash.Commentary
Money Manager Likes Inflation Index Treasury BondsAt least one money manager advises getting a strategy in place fast for forthcoming inflation.Commentary
Reading The Business Cycle Tea LeavesAlthough Lakshman Achuthan, economist and author of "Beating the Business Cycle (Doubleday)," is bullish on the economy, he believes cash is king…Commentary
Are You Russian To Make Some Money In The Stock Market?Some financial advisers say Russian stocks might be ripe, assuming you are willing to risk big losses.Commentary
Money Pros Optimistic About Large Company StocksDespite expected rate hikes from the Fed, rising oil prices, andthe transition of power in Iraq, U.S. large company stock investment managers…Commentary
Money Fund Investors Could Be At RiskLuckily, Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan says he doesnÕt expect any sudden interest rate spikes.Commentary
Ultra-Short Bond FundsLooking to park some cash, but don't want to earn low money market fund yields?Commentary
Getting The Stock Market To RiseIt's summer. Typically, the best periods in the stock market are from November through April.Commentary
Sizing up small company stocks versus large company stocksIt may be time for large company stocks to do well, while small companyCommentary
U.S. Senators Beat Stock MarketAha! While the rest of us all are treading water financially, our U.S. senators are making a bundle in the stock market.Commentary
Fate Of Mid-Cap Stock FundsMost experts expect "mid-cap" stocks, or stocks issued by medium-size companies, to perform well as our economy expands.Commentary
Money Managers Cite Values In Mid-Size CompaniesSo which mid-size company stocks and large company stocks are fund managers buying?Commentary
Stock And Stock Fund Investment TipsHopefully, the cool weather will bring on hotter stock prices. Historically, the best periods to invest in the stock market are November through…Commentary
Financial Services Stocks Look Good Long TermCharles Feinberg, co-manager of the Davis Financial Fund, is optimistic about bank, brokerage and insurance company stocks.Commentary
Tips On Diversifying Your InvestmentsMany of you might diversify your investments by putting money in U.S. and foreign stocks, bonds, cash, real estate and precious metals.Commentary
Mutual Funds Prices Move With Stock MarketMost of the time, when the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500 stock market index are up, your common stock mutual funds is up. Reason:…Commentary
Financial Check Up TimeIt's time for a third quarter financial check up. So go online or get out your statements.Commentary
Investment Tips From The Legends Of Wall StreetIf it's any consolation, the greatest investors of all time, like us, have had their ups and downs. They made and lost millions. But in the end,…Commentary
Five Mutual Fund Tax RulesIt could be time to consider tax changes in your mutual fund investments. But always check with your accountant or financial advisor first.Commentary
Look For Low-Cost AnnuitiesIf you are going to invest in a variable annuity, one expert says to make it a low-cost one.Commentary
By All Means, DiversifyIf you took time a few years ago to diversify your investments, you minimized downside risk and benefited from periods of strong market appreciation.Commentary
Best Way To Allocate AssetsHow many funds do you need to practice asset allocation?Commentary
How To Handle Your Mutual Funds When You RetireWhat should you do with your mutual fund or other investments when you retire?Commentary
Asian Markets Are Hit And MissOver the past year, mutual funds that invest exclusively in this region are up over 18 percent, according to Morningstar Inc., Chicago.Commentary
New funds vs. old funds: How to rate themShould you invest in a new fund or an older fund with a good track record? That depends. Here are some points worth evaluating based on the age of…Commentary
Overseas Bonds Benefit From Decline In DollarOne of the easiest ways to benefit from the falling value of the U.S. dollar may be through international bonds.Commentary
Combining Stocks And Municipal BondsAha! Is this mutual fund a better mouse trap?Commentary
Family Finances: Pros And Cons Of Target FundsThink carefully about investing in the new style target investment type mutual funds.Commentary
Several Investment Tactics Get Good ReturnsLately, the trend has been toward index funds, which track the performance of a particular index.Commentary
How To Scrutinize Your Mutual Funds?Are your mutual funds looking out for your best interest?Commentary
Overseas Investments Benefit From Decline In DollarThink the U.S. dollar is still on the decline? It's already down more than 25 percent in value since 2002.Commentary
Go Low CostStick with low-cost mutual funds. In the long run, you'll have more money in your pocket.Commentary
Managing Your Fortune: Zipping up investment returnsWant to boost the return on your investments with little fuss?Commentary
Are Bear Market Funds For YouBear market funds do well when the stock market head south. So if you plan to own a bear market fund, you must use a system that tells you when…Commentary
One expert bearish on ChinaAlthough many are touting China as the place to invest, not all agree.Commentary
Are principal protection funds worth it?Principal protection mutual funds sound like a good deal. You invest for a required five or seven years in a common stock mutual fund. At…Commentary
Gold investments as inflation hedgeShould you invest in gold or precious metals mutual funds that own mining stocks?Commentary
Mutual Fund books help you investIt's best to do some homework before you invest. Educating yourself pays off in the long run. The reason: You understand how the financial markets…Commentary
Buy-and-hold investing can pay offIn many of the recent mutual fund scandals, all the talk has been about profits made by deals mutual fund families cut with market timers.Commentary
Assessing the Impact of Taxes on mutual fundsKeep as much of your mutual fund investments in tax-deferred or tax-efficient investments. The reason: Taxes on fund returns are on the rise,…Commentary
Dividend Paying StocksLooking for income and some growth from your investments?Commentary
Experts Expect Mundane Stock Market For Mutual Fund InvestorsThe stock market should do well if the price of oil declines.Commentary
Socially Responsible Stocks Come Of AgeWho would have thought that socially responsible stocks would outperform the market 15 years ago when the Domini 400 Social Index began?Commentary
Go with non-profit fund companiesIf you're going to invest in mutual funds, it could pay to stick with not-for-profit management companies.Commentary
Easy-To-Use Investment StrategiesIf you're like most families, you don't have time to manage your investments. The last time you tried, you probably lost money because you failed…Commentary
Keeping it simpleIf you're the type of investor that likes to keep it simple, all you need is one or two funds.Commentary
Heath care fund likes drugsKris Jenner, portfolio manager of the T. Rowe Price Health Sciences Fund, says drug company stocks may be down, but don't count them out.Commentary
Avoid market neutral mutual fundsWhat the heck are market neutral mutual funds?Commentary
Socially responsible investments come of ageSocially responsible funds formerly avoided sin stocks--companies in the gaming, liquor and arms businesses and companies that did not pollute the…Commentary
Mutual fund rules of thumbStick with mutual funds that are commission-free and sport low expenses. The lower the fees, the greater your return over the long term.Commentary
Unusual mutual fund investmentsThere are specialized mutual funds designed to fit the customized needs of investors. Here are a few of the more unusual types.Commentary
Fund manager builds on past performanceRon Muhlenkamp, manager of the Muhlenkamp Fund, likes home building stocks. Reason: The stocks are cheap in relation to earnings and other…Commentary
Lifestyle and lifecycle fundsAre lifestyle funds for you? Or do you need lifecycle funds?Commentary
Tips on how to investBefore you decide what to invest in, it is important to decide how you want to invest.Commentary
Value Beats Growth Over Long TermThe perennial mutual fund question: Should you invest in growth funds or value funds?Commentary
No-load fund best buysImprove returns by sticking with no-load mutual funds that charge no upfront or back-end sales charges.Commentary
Fund managers modestly optimistic about near futureAlthough stock prices are waffling, expect higher returns in the near future. So keep right on investing. Sectors that should perform well include…Commentary
Tips on how to investBefore you decide what to invest in, it is important to decide how you want to invest.Commentary
Right way to diversifyIt's tough to figure out how much to keep in U.S. stocks, international stocks, bonds and cash.Commentary
Upbeat report: Developing market mutual funds?Walter Frank, chief investment office of Moneyletter, a Holliston, Mass.-based mutual fund newsletter, is bullish on emerging market or developing…Commentary
Growth And Income Funds: A Good CombinationIf you need income and also would like your investment to grow over the long term, consider growth and income funds. These funds invest in large…Commentary
Up your gold anteFor bond funds, the worst-case-scenario could be rising interest rates if you're not careful.Commentary
Decision: Mutual funds vs. exchange traded fundsThe battle between exchange traded funds and mutual funds intensifies, and I'll let you in on a few of my own conclusions about these two…Commentary
Lump sum versus dollar cost averagingResearch in recent years has shown that investing a lump sum often is better than dollar cost averaging, or investing a specific amount…Commentary
Mutual funds to avoidWe already have some 10,000 mutual funds. Every time we have a different economic event in the world, do we need another mutual fund to help us…Commentary
Allocate your assetsAsset allocation, or how you split your assets among stocks, bonds and other assets--hands down--is the single most important factor driving…Commentary
Year end mutual fund financial tipsHere are some situations in which it could pay to consider investment changes next year.Commentary
Mutual fund year-end resolutionsHere are some year-end mutual fund investment tips to help you ring in a good 2006.Commentary
Stock funds that benefit from mergers and acquisitionsExpect to see several mutual funds benefit from a rising number of corporate mergers and acquisitions.Commentary
Gold looks promising but has risksThe gold bugs are beating the tom-toms now that the metal hit $500 per ounce.Commentary
Stick with shorter-term government bondsFor your bond investments, consider sticking with U.S. government bonds that are non-callable and have maturities ranging from one to five…Commentary
Evaluating mutual fund riskHow do you evaluate a common stock mutual fund's risk? There are several ways to do it.Commentary
Speculation and diversificationEven though it sure would be great to start the year with a fat profit in a hot sector of the mutual fund market, we suggest splitting up your money.Commentary
Value Investing Beats Growth InvestingIs it better to buy value stocks, which are stocks that are underpriced based on a company's future profits?Commentary
Mutual fund investment tipsDue largely to their low cost and better performance, we generally prefer index funds, which invest in the same securities that make up a…Commentary
Keep tabs on your financial adviserHave someone managing your mutual fund investments? If so, are you keeping tabs on him or her? Too many shareholders don't.Commentary
Tread carefully with foreign stocksForeign stocks are outperforming U.S. stocks due to economic growth and the decline of the dollar. But many money managers are expect a foreign…Commentary
Low-minimum mutual fund investmentsThe problem nowadays: Virtually all financial services companies want to do business with the high-net-worth because those customers supposedly…Commentary
Should you invest in a hedge fund?Most of us can't do it. Only accredited investors with a net worth of at least $1 million or an annual income of $200,000 for singles or $300,000…Commentary
The right number of mutual funds to ownHow many funds should you own? Six is enough. You can invest in index funds that track large, small company and foreign stocks. Plus, you can…Commentary
Warning issued for second and third quartersJust when the stock market starts looking attractive, one leading market watcher warns it's best not to invest in stocks in the second and third…Commentary
Invest for growth rather than incomeAre you receiving periodic interest and dividend payments from your investments?Commentary
Funds shun large-cap business cyclesConventional thinking is that large company growth stocks have underperformed medium company and small company growth stocks for the past few…Commentary
How To Cut Your Fund ExpensesIt's easy to get confused by all the fees you pay on mutual funds.Yet they cut into your returns. The more commissions and expenses you pay, the…Commentary
Investments you'll never need!One of our favorite personal finance primers is, "The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need (Harvest Books)" by Andrew Tobias.Commentary
New calculator compares mutual funds with exchange traded fundsShould you choose mutual funds or exchange traded funds?Commentary
Taking advantage of mutual fund trendsHere are trends that some believe could influence stock market and stock mutual fund returns:Commentary
Tips for your pensionContrary to popular belief, not everyone who works for a company has a pension. But if you have one, be sure to maximize the opportunity it provides.Commentary
Check bond fund holdingsConsidering a bond mutual fund that invests in high-yield, convertible or asset-backed bonds?Commentary
Make sure you're really diversifiedWhen you invest, diversification--or mixing up your investments--has been key to getting attractive performance without losing your shirt.Commentary
Tips for your pensionDoes your employer offer a pension? Maximize the opportunity it provides.Commentary
Keeping Tabs on Your InvestmentsMake certain you know where all your money is. Here are some points to consider.Commentary
Mutual funds versus exchange traded funds?Mutual funds and exchange traded funds both pool money to invest.Commentary
How to get income from your fundsLooking for an all-in-one place to get income?Commentary
H Never too early to think year-endHere are some year-end mutual fund investment tips to help you ring in a good 2007.Commentary
Tips on managing your investmentsBuying individual stocks or bonds can give you more control of your money than investing in mutual funds.Commentary
Understanding your basic investmentsCardinal rule when you invest the family's money. Never invest in anything you don't understand.Commentary
Small and undervalued stocks deliver best long term returnsIf you had to invest in just one type of mutual fund for the long term, which should it be?Commentary
Best deals on mutual fundsf you hire a money manager who invests in low-cost index funds that track the stock and bond market averages, take a close look at the index funds…Commentary
Hedging your mutual fund betsForget the fancy footwork if you need to hedge your mutual funds. You even can skip the margin accounts.Commentary
Performance reports differ from real lifeDo you really earn what your year-end mutual fund performance report says?Commentary
Global Stock Market OutlookThere's plenty of cash going into overseas stocks.Commentary
Will the economy and the financial markets keep on ticking in 2007?Financial markets seem little worried that the pace of economic growth slowed during second half 2006. Bond yields have remained within a fairly…Commentary
The Pros and Cons of Index FundsAlthough index mutual funds typically outperform actively managed funds, actively managed funds quietly have taken a lead over index funds over…Commentary
Tips on investing in high-yield bond fundsYou'd like to earn an 7 percent to 8 percent yield, right?Commentary
Tips for your pensionDoes your employer offer a pension? Maximize the opportunity it provides.Commentary
Use care with these risky investmentsAlthough the markets may look attractive, there are certain investments that require you to exercise extreme caution. Here are a few:Commentary
Frequently Asked Questions about Mutual FundsA mutual fund is a type of registered investment that pools money from people like you, and invests in a selection of stocks, bonds or both. An…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Excerpt from Quick Steps to Financial StabilityOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist of excerpts from their new book from Quick Steps to Financial…Commentary
Values abound in mid-cap stocksOver the next few months, Alan Lavine & Gail Liberman's column will consist Despite heavy attention to large-company stocks, money managers were…Commentary
The best places to invest in 2007Despite Wall Street's bright economic forecast, stocks still could tumble due to more trouble in the Middle East, a terrorist attack or high…Commentary
Individual medium sized companies look goodMoney managers characterized the mid-cap sector as a "stock picker's market"--Commentary
Safe InvestmentsIn case you haven't looked lately, there are some attractive high yielding investments. But the higher the yield, the greater the risk.Commentary
Best-rated sector fundsAre you among those who like to invest in oil and health care stocks for growth? Prefer income from a well- managed utility stock fund? Or, are…Commentary
Target date funds for retirementTarget-date retirement funds for 401 (k) pension plans may prove a good deal for those who are uncomfortable investing.Commentary
Stock investment tipsAs the economy gets stronger, many expect large companies with strong earnings growth to perform best.Commentary
Tips on investing in high-yield bond fundsYou'd like to earn an 7 percent to 8 percent yield, right?That's about what you can earn on a high-yield bond fund. But before considering this…Commentary
Best mutual fund web sites rankedThere's a lot of great information on mutual funds at your fingertips on the web.Commentary
How to deal with a volatile marketOver the past few months, the stock market has been bouncing around like a basketball. How to cope?Commentary
Stick with good fund managersSometimes good portfolio managers deliver lousy returns. They are not perfect stock pickers year in and year out.Commentary
Weathering an economic downturn with mutual fundsIt never hurts to have some recession-resistant mutual funds in your portfolio. Funds that invest in bonds and utility stocks often help cushion…Commentary
High yield bond outlookDespite several years of strong performance, it's questionable whether high yield or junk bonds will perform well this year.Commentary
Fund managers take a conservative stance in junk bondsJames Keegan, manager of the American Century High Yield Fund, joins those who are cautious about the high-yield bond market.Commentary
Evaluating Advisers' Recommended PortfolioIt's very common to hire a broker or financial adviser to manage of portfolio of individual stocks, bonds or mutual funds for you.Commentary
Opportunities in high yield municipal bondsThe taxable equivalent yields of high yield municipal bonds were on par with taxable high yield corporate bonds as we wrote this column.Commentary
Taking advantage of market opportunitiesWe generally shun the idea of market timing, which involves moving around your money to try to capture the most market gains possible.Commentary
More on REITs: Manager cautious on REITsJoe Betlej, manger of the Ivy Real Estate Fund, is cautious. He believes the REIT market will go through a correction. But long term, he expects…Commentary
Watch out for risk in stock marketCould "stagflation," which signifies rising prices and interest rates with slowing economic growth, become a problem with our economy?Commentary
Real estate stock funds have legs?Mergers and acquisitions still are driving the real estate investment trust (REIT) market, particularly in the office and small cap sector.Commentary
Insurance companies licking their chopsAlthough reports have indicated that some actively managed funds have outperformed index funds in recent years, we still like index funds.Reason:…Commentary
Should you invest in new mutual funds?It's exciting to put your money into something that does well from day one. Then again, the fund could be a dud.Commentary
The pros and cons of variable income annuitiesIf you're living on a fixed income, you know all about interest rate risk and inflation risk.Commentary
Investments that answer to a higher sourceFaith-based mutual funds can deliver a strong one-two punch.Commentary
Investment TipsThere are a few tried-and-true rules to help you manage your mutual funds in volatile markets.Commentary
Are you letting your guard down about money?Is your investment strategy to blindly follow your financial adviser's advice on which mutual funds to buy?Commentary
Investing your IRA rollover dollarsWhat do you do after you've rolled over your 401 (K) pension into an IRA?Commentary
Keep your stock fund taxes to a minimumWant to boost your investment performance without upping the risk? Keep your investment taxes to a minimum.Commentary
How you save the family's money has a lot to do with your personalityHow would you characterize the investment personality of you and your spouse?Commentary
Big mistakes in 401(k) investmentsIt's tough to manage 401 (k) money in mutual funds.Commentary
Where to put your cash now?The Vanguard Prime Money Market Fund often is touted as a great place to put large amounts of cash.Commentary
Write legislators nowIt's more important than ever to keep an eye on our federal legislature. A lot of proposed legislation aims to help mutual fund investors.Commentary
Are target date funds truly on target?We often tout the idea of target date mutual funds as, perhaps, the simplest way to invest.Commentary
Financial outlook: Rocky, but upbeatSo what's in store for your mutual funds next year?Commentary
Picking good mutual fundsIf you want to invest in a well-managed mutual fund, how to you find the best deal?Commentary
Weathering an economic downturn with mutual fundsIt never hurts to have some recession-resistant mutual funds in your portfolio. Funds that invest in bonds and utility stocks often help cushion…Commentary
Rules for coping with down marketsDoes all the current news about the credit crunch make you worry about your mutual funds?Commentary
More rules for coping with down marketsBefore we were married, one of us bought a property around 1985. Its value almost immediately plummeted.Commentary
Calculators off the mark?You can take full control of your family's investments without bothering about the math. Just go to your favorite online calculator.Commentary
Avoiding high-risk investments can be prudentMarket volatility can be scary to a family needing to save so much for the future.Commentary
Gold investments as inflation hedgeShould you invest in gold or precious metals mutual funds that own mining stocks?Commentary
Some experts say 2008 stock market may do better than expectedAt least one market strategist sees a positive note in the economy.Commentary
How much should you consider past performance?You hear so much hype about past performance. But is past performance truly an indication of future results?Commentary
Will a presidential year bail out the economy?Money managers are cautiously optimistic about the stock market in 2008. Expect a sluggish economy.Commentary
Study questions hedge fund efforts to diversifyIf you're thinking of investing in hedge funds to diversify your investments, think again.Commentary
How to buy low and sell highThe trick to investing: Buy low and sell high.Commentary
The word on financial talk showsOn one program segment, viewers call in and rattle off the names of stocks. Host Jim Cramer, co-founder and director of TheStreet.com, at…Commentary
Sector fund bets for 2008Investing in sectors, which concentrate investments in a limited section of an industry, can be very risky.Commentary
Worldwide investing pays offIt pays to keep it simple when investing in mutual funds.Commentary
Tips on managing your holdingsWhat determines most of your investment returns? Is it the types of investments you own or your personal investment prowess?Commentary
What do all these Wall Street words mean anyway?Unless your head is buried in the sand, it may look scary for our economy and our economic future.Commentary
Managing money like a proIf you ask the wealthy how they made their money, many will tell you that they started small. At least, that's what several told us when we…Commentary
Tips on managing your 401 (K) planThe American Instiute of Certified Public Accountants suggests that if you're working, you should take these steps to plan for retirement:Commentary
What do all these Wall Street words mean anyway?Unless your head is buried in the sand, it may look scary for our economy and our economic future.Commentary
Investment tipsWhen it comes to money, it's all about saving, investing and owing less. Here are a few unique ways to get ahead.Commentary
Rules for coping with a stock market correctionA few bad days in the stock market doesn't mean the sky is falling. History tells us we have to accept the good with the bad when we invest in…Commentary
Tracking down the best bargainsThe best way to invest is to buy when the markets decline and the news seems at its worst. Those are the words of John Templeton, renowned…Commentary
Are you really well-diversified?Are your family's investments truly diversified?Commentary
Jittery about the economy? Here's what to doIf all the news about the economy is making you jittery, your first step is to analyze into which category your family falls.Commentary
Family Finances: How to evaluate an investmentWe often hear hype about the newest and hottest investments.Commentary
Wronged investors getting raw arbitration deal?Now that times may be tougher for investors, some attorneys warn that the system could leave you up a creek if you're wronged by a broker.Commentary
Should a variable annuity be inside an IRA?Put a tax-deferred investment, like a variable annuity, inside an already tax-deferred IRA or retirement account.Commentary
Hard asset stocks are a hedgeAre you among those worried about bond and stock prices diving? Do you want some protection in case, as many experts fear, inflation gets out of…Commentary
Should a variable annuity be inside an IRA?Put a tax-deferred investment, like a variable annuity, inside an already tax-deferred IRA or retirement account.Commentary
Money managers that like small company stocksWhen the market gets hammered, it's often a good idea to pick up some small company stocks on the rebound.Commentary
Tracking down safe investmentsConsidering moving your money from mutual funds to lower-risk investments?Commentary
In your quest for safety, here's what to considerOnce you invest in something that lacks a direct government guarantee, it's up to you to evaluate the strength of the company backing your investment.Commentary
Nailing down specifics of an investmentWhenever you invest, it is critical that you understand the terms of your investment and analyze the risks it may pose.Commentary
Is it worth investing in mutual funds?We've been taking a great interest lately in reading why mutual funds are so terrible.Commentary
How to protect your brokerage accountWhat should you be doing in these tough economic times to make sure your brokerage accounts are fully protected in case you must file a claim?Commentary
How safe are your brokerage accounts?We've been getting lots of inquiries about the safety of brokerage accounts.Commentary
Playing it safe with your fortuneRegardless of how much or how little you know about your money, there are some simple rules of thumb to help bring you up to speed.Commentary
Managing your money in the 21st CenturyThe investment, savings and insurance world is changing for people over age 50. That's the word based on a report by Goldman, Sachs & Co. The…Commentary
Bonds are attractiveBonds for many are looking like an attractive investment right now.Commentary
Playing it SafeRegardless of how much or how little you know about your money, there are some simple rules of thumb to help bring you up to speed.Commentary
Easy technique for buying low and selling highConstant dollar investing may be one of the easiest ways to take the guess work out of buying an investment low and selling high.Commentary
Hedging your mutual fund investment betsWondering whether to get in or out of this crazy market?Commentary