---
title: "Lavine/Liberman Archive"
url: https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/archive
description: "Every mutual fund commentary by Alan Lavine and Gail Liberman published in Dian’s Fund Freebies, 315 pieces."
---

# 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 TRAPS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine1.html)The 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 FUNDS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine2.html)Guess what? Mutual funds in 401 (k) plans and those bought through financial advisers may be outperforming mutual funds bought directly from…Commentary
- [THINK POSITIVE](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine3.html)Stocks 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 MORE](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine4.html)If 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 PERFORMANCE](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine5.html)How long do you hold your mutual funds? One, three, five or 10 years?Commentary
- [HIGH RETURN LOWER-RISK STOCK FUNDS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine6.html)If 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 YEAR](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine7.html)The 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 FUNDS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine8.html)Another no-load mutual fund group bites the dust.Commentary
- [UNDERVALUED SMALL STOCKS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine9.html)These 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine10.html)Looking to make a quick market killing in 2002?Commentary
- [RATES COULD STAY LOW](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine11.html)Some investment pros look for higher interest rates this year due to an economic rebound.Commentary
- [GROWTH FUNDS SPORT ATTRACTIVE HOLDINGS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine12.html)What's up with growth stock funds? On average they have lost over 40 percent the past two years.Commentary
- [AVOIDING GUT-WRENCHING FUND GYRATIONS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine13.html)When 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 FAVOR](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine14.html)Is 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 ENRON](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine15.html)One reader writes that he is worried because his stock fund owned Enron.Commentary
- [PROS ADDING MORE TO STOCKS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine16.html)What 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 YEARS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine17.html)How quickly mutual fund performance numbers change!Commentary
- [HOT NEWSLETTERS' BEST FUND PICKS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine18.html)So what is the best-performing mutual fund newsletter recommending these days?Commentary
- [GET MORE MILEAGE OUT OF YOUR INVESTMENTS](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine19.html)Want 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](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine20.html)- Gail Liberman and Alan LavineCommentary
- [Now's The Time For Inflation Index Bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine21.html)Standard & 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine22.html)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 Avoid](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine23.html)Sometimes 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 Markets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine24.html)Those high double-digit stock returns of the 1990s are a thing of the past.Commentary
- [How Companies Lie](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine25.html)They 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 Weakens](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine26.html)It 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 Guys](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine27.html)When 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 Winners](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine28.html)Are Morningstar's mutual fund ratings worth it?Commentary
- [Easy way to buy low and sell high](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine29.html)Buying 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 safe](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine30.html)The markets are extra volatile and unstable these days.Commentary
- [Mutual funds are not what they used to be](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine31.html)Things 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 be](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine32.html)So 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 Investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine33.html)If 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 Way](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine34.html)Could 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 Today](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine35.html)Look to stocks that pay dividends. We’ve been rocked by so many accounting scandals that today it may be better to invest in companies that pass…Commentary
- [Asian stocks seen as bargain](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine36.html)Robert 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 too](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine37.html)Are you finally getting around to investing in bonds?Commentary
- [Learn from your investment mistakes](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine38.html)When it comes to investing, we all seem to make the same mistakes. Hopefully, we can learn from them.Commentary
- [Coping with the stock market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine39.html)The 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 growth](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine40.html)In 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 today](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine41.html)If Ben Graham, father of modern security analysis, were alive today, what would he advise investors?Commentary
- [Forget About Hedge Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine42.html)Mutual fund companies are coming out with so-called "hedge funds" designed to limit losses in the stock market.Commentary
- [Growth stocks will eventually come back](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine43.html)Feel like throwing in the towel because your growth stocks are doing so poorly?Commentary
- [Will stocks rebound?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine44.html)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 investing](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine45.html)The 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 investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine46.html)What can we expect if we go to war with Iraq?Commentary
- [Money managers with lots of cash to invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine48.html)Investing 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 Expenses](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine49.html)It's not fair. Stock funds are losing money, but mutual fund companies are raising their expenses.Commentary
- [Top-rated small stock fund managers optimistic](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine50.html)Top-rated small company stock fund managers are anxiously awaiting the stock market rebound.Commentary
- [Fund Managers are Good Stock Pickers but Expenses Kill Returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine51.html)Want to outperform the market with actively managed stock funds?Commentary
- [Ok To Buy Mutual Funds At Year End](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine52.html)This year it is O.K. to buy mutual funds at year-end. In most years, it's not.Commentary
- [New Year's Mutual Fund Resolutions](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine53.html)It 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 2003](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine54.html)Sheldon 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 Bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine55.html)Foreign bond funds may be a way to earn high yields and positive returns over the next few yearsCommentary
- [2003 Could Be an Unusual Year](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine56.html)Wall Streeters largely say that we should experience a stronger economy and higher stock prices in 2003.Commentary
- [Investment Trends for 2003](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine57.html)The month of January could tell how the stock market will perform the rest of this year.Commentary
- [Think Diversification](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine58.html)Chances 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 Dividends](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine59.html)Who knows what the Bush tax cuts will look like after Congress gets a hold of it?Commentary
- [Al Frank Fund Goes No-Load](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine60.html)Al 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 Year](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine61.html)The 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine62.html)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 Yields](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine63.html)Are preferred stocks for you? They yield 8 percent or more.Commentary
- [What Investments will Do Well](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine64.html)Will last year's winning mutual funds be this year's winners?Commentary
- [Stocks Go in Cycles](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine65.html)Almost 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 risk](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine66.html)In the wake of the three-year bear market that has seen stocks drop almost 50 percent, it is important to practice what’s known as "asset…Commentary
- [Rebalancing reduces risk](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine67.html)Consider 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 Information](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine68.html)Are 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 Now](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine69.html)Interest 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 yields](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine70.html)Investing 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine71.html)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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine72.html)Attracted to those 4 percent to 7 percent yields on real estate stock funds?Commentary
- [Getting in on Takeover Action](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine73.html)Do you want to get in on the takeover action?Commentary
- [New Commodity-linked Funds Act as Hedges](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine74.html)Investors now have a couple of options if they want to hedge their portfolios with commodities.Commentary
- [Keep your Investment Taxes to a Minimum](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine75.html)U.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 Potential](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine76.html)It'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 invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine77.html)Are we finally going to see a good year in the stock market?Commentary
- [A Lesson on Index Fund Investing](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine78.html)Should you invest in an index fund that owns all the stocks thatmake up the S&P 500?Commentary
- [Best-rated Sector Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine79.html)Are 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 Again](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine80.html)If 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 Principal](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine81.html)Of 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 Returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine82.html)We 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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine83.html)It's about time. The stock market had a great first half of the year. Will it continue?Commentary
- [Where To Get Higher Yields](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine84.html)Look for higher yields? Who isn¹t now that money market fund rates are near zero.Commentary
- [Spread Your Risk In The Bond Market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine85.html)What'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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine86.html)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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine87.html)We need to do a better job staying put when we invest in mutual funds.Commentary
- [Get Income and Growth From Dividend Paying Stock Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine88.html)Dividends 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 Broker](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine89.html)Before your purchase a mutual fund from a broker, ask a ton of questions.Commentary
- [Here's What To Do For The Rest Of The Year](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine90.html)So what's in store for stocks, bonds and the economy the rest of the year?Commentary
- [Bond Investment Strategies](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine91.html)We'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 Back](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine92.html)The 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 Dispute](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine93.html)We 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 Stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine94.html)The 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 Invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine95.html)Looking to earn halfway between the return on stocks and bonds?Commentary
- [Real Estate Stocks Still Doing Well](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine96.html)So what's the scoop on real estate investments?Commentary
- [New "Active" Dividend Fund Capitalizes On Tax Laws](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine97.html)In 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 Timers](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine98.html)If 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 Extinct](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine99.html)If 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 Off](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine101.html)There'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 Season](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine102.html)Good 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 Taxes](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine103.html)Thinking of dumping a mutual fund that is under investigation and buying a new one?Commentary
- [How To Ladder Bonds For Less Risk](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine104.html)If 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-up](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine105.html)It'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 2004](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine106.html)Will this year's stock market do as well as last year's?Commentary
- [Watch This Asia Fund](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine107.html)When 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 Pitfalls](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine108.html)A 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 Holdings](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine109.html)What determines most of your investment returns? Is it the type of assets you own or your stock or bond picking ability?Commentary
- [Timing the Market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine110.html)Many 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 Bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine111.html)High-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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine112.html)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 Good](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine113.html)Money managers like the overseas markets better than the U.S. markets. The reasons:Commentary
- [Top Analyst Predicts Good Years Ahead For Stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine114.html)What can you expect to earn in stocks, bonds and cash for the next several years?Commentary
- [Watch Out For Fund Redemption Fees](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine115.html)Wonders 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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine116.html)Before 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 Invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine117.html)Insurance companies have come up with a new way to invest for your retirement. But is it for you?Commentary
- [Getting The Best Low-Risk Returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine118.html)Expect to hear some fancy buzzwords from your broker,financial planner or financial adviser. They are, "Portfoliooptimization."Commentary
- [Forget Market Timing](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine119.html)There has been lots of fuss lately over big-time investors cutting deals with mutual funds to time the markets.Commentary
- [Getting Ready For Inflation](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine120.html)It never hurts to be prepared when it comes to inflation.Commentary
- [Market Cycles Tell Market Direction](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine122.html)Stock 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 Them](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine123.html)If 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 Rates](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine124.html)As interest rates rise, expect some types of stocks to get hurt more than others.Commentary
- [Fund Insights](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine125.html)If 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine126.html)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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine127.html)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 Rates](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine128.html)Now 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 Bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine130.html)At least one money manager advises getting a strategy in place fast for forthcoming inflation.Commentary
- [Reading The Business Cycle Tea Leaves](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine131.html)Although 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine132.html)Some financial advisers say Russian stocks might be ripe, assuming you are willing to risk big losses.Commentary
- [Money Pros Optimistic About Large Company Stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine133.html)Despite 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 Risk](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine134.html)Luckily, Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan says he doesnÕt expect any sudden interest rate spikes.Commentary
- [Ultra-Short Bond Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine135.html)Looking to park some cash, but don't want to earn low money market fund yields?Commentary
- [Getting The Stock Market To Rise](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine136.html)It's summer. Typically, the best periods in the stock market are from November through April.Commentary
- [Sizing up small company stocks versus large company stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine137.html)It may be time for large company stocks to do well, while small companyCommentary
- [U.S. Senators Beat Stock Market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine138.html)Aha! 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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine139.html)Most 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 Companies](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine140.html)So which mid-size company stocks and large company stocks are fund managers buying?Commentary
- [Stock And Stock Fund Investment Tips](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine141.html)Hopefully, 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 Term](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine142.html)Charles Feinberg, co-manager of the Davis Financial Fund, is optimistic about bank, brokerage and insurance company stocks.Commentary
- [Tips On Diversifying Your Investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine143.html)Many 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 Market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine144.html)Most 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 Time](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine145.html)It'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 Street](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine146.html)If 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 Rules](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine147.html)It 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 Annuities](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine148.html)If you are going to invest in a variable annuity, one expert says to make it a low-cost one.Commentary
- [By All Means, Diversify](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine149.html)If 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 Assets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine150.html)How many funds do you need to practice asset allocation?Commentary
- [How To Handle Your Mutual Funds When You Retire](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine151.html)What should you do with your mutual fund or other investments when you retire?Commentary
- [Asian Markets Are Hit And Miss](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine152.html)Over 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 them](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine153.html)Should 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 Dollar](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine154.html)One 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 Bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine155.html)Aha! Is this mutual fund a better mouse trap?Commentary
- [Family Finances: Pros And Cons Of Target Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine156.html)Think carefully about investing in the new style target investment type mutual funds.Commentary
- [Several Investment Tactics Get Good Returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine157.html)Lately, the trend has been toward index funds, which track the performance of a particular index.Commentary
- [How To Scrutinize Your Mutual Funds?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine158.html)Are your mutual funds looking out for your best interest?Commentary
- [Overseas Investments Benefit From Decline In Dollar](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine159.html)Think the U.S. dollar is still on the decline? It's already down more than 25 percent in value since 2002.Commentary
- [Go Low Cost](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine160.html)Stick with low-cost mutual funds. In the long run, you'll have more money in your pocket.Commentary
- [Managing Your Fortune: Zipping up investment returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine161.html)Want to boost the return on your investments with little fuss?Commentary
- [Are Bear Market Funds For You](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine162.html)Bear 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 China](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine163.html)Although many are touting China as the place to invest, not all agree.Commentary
- [Are principal protection funds worth it?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine164.html)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 hedge](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine165.html)Should you invest in gold or precious metals mutual funds that own mining stocks?Commentary
- [Mutual Fund books help you invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine166.html)It'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 off](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine167.html)In 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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine168.html)Keep 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 Stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine169.html)Looking for income and some growth from your investments?Commentary
- [Experts Expect Mundane Stock Market For Mutual Fund Investors](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine170.html)The stock market should do well if the price of oil declines.Commentary
- [Socially Responsible Stocks Come Of Age](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine171.html)Who 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 companies](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine172.html)If you're going to invest in mutual funds, it could pay to stick with not-for-profit management companies.Commentary
- [Easy-To-Use Investment Strategies](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine173.html)If 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 simple](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine174.html)If 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 drugs](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine175.html)Kris 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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine176.html)What the heck are market neutral mutual funds?Commentary
- [Socially responsible investments come of age](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine177.html)Socially 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 thumb](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine178.html)Stick 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 investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine179.html)There 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 performance](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine180.html)Ron 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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine181.html)Are lifestyle funds for you? Or do you need lifecycle funds?Commentary
- [Tips on how to invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine182.html)Before you decide what to invest in, it is important to decide how you want to invest.Commentary
- [Value Beats Growth Over Long Term](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine183.html)The perennial mutual fund question: Should you invest in growth funds or value funds?Commentary
- [No-load fund best buys](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine184.html)Improve returns by sticking with no-load mutual funds that charge no upfront or back-end sales charges.Commentary
- [Fund managers modestly optimistic about near future](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine185.html)Although 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 invest](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine186.html)Before you decide what to invest in, it is important to decide how you want to invest.Commentary
- [Right way to diversify](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine187.html)It'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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine188.html)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 Combination](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine189.html)If 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 ante](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine190.html)For bond funds, the worst-case-scenario could be rising interest rates if you're not careful.Commentary
- [Decision: Mutual funds vs. exchange traded funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine191.html)The 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 averaging](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine192.html)Research 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 avoid](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine193.html)We 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 assets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine194.html)Asset 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 tips](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine195.html)Here are some situations in which it could pay to consider investment changes next year.Commentary
- [Mutual fund year-end resolutions](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine196.html)Here are some year-end mutual fund investment tips to help you ring in a good 2006.Commentary
- [Stock funds that benefit from mergers and acquisitions](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine197.html)Expect to see several mutual funds benefit from a rising number of corporate mergers and acquisitions.Commentary
- [Gold looks promising but has risks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine198.html)The gold bugs are beating the tom-toms now that the metal hit $500 per ounce.Commentary
- [Stick with shorter-term government bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine199.html)For 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 risk](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine200.html)How do you evaluate a common stock mutual fund's risk? There are several ways to do it.Commentary
- [Speculation and diversification](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine201.html)Even 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 Investing](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine202.html)Is it better to buy value stocks, which are stocks that are underpriced based on a company's future profits?Commentary
- [Mutual fund investment tips](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine203.html)Due 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 adviser](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine204.html)Have 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 stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine205.html)Foreign 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 investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine206.html)The 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine207.html)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 own](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine208.html)How 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 quarters](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine209.html)Just 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 income](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine210.html)Are you receiving periodic interest and dividend payments from your investments?Commentary
- [Funds shun large-cap business cycles](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine211.html)Conventional 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 Expenses](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine212.html)It'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!](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine213.html)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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine214.html)Should you choose mutual funds or exchange traded funds?Commentary
- [Taking advantage of mutual fund trends](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine215.html)Here are trends that some believe could influence stock market and stock mutual fund returns:Commentary
- [Tips for your pension](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine216.html)Contrary 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 holdings](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine217.html)Considering a bond mutual fund that invests in high-yield, convertible or asset-backed bonds?Commentary
- [Make sure you're really diversified](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine218.html)When you invest, diversification--or mixing up your investments--has been key to getting attractive performance without losing your shirt.Commentary
- [Tips for your pension](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine219.html)Does your employer offer a pension? Maximize the opportunity it provides.Commentary
- [Keeping Tabs on Your Investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine220.html)Make certain you know where all your money is. Here are some points to consider.Commentary
- [Mutual funds versus exchange traded funds?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine221.html)Mutual funds and exchange traded funds both pool money to invest.Commentary
- [How to get income from your funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine222.html)Looking for an all-in-one place to get income?Commentary
- [H Never too early to think year-end](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine223.html)Here are some year-end mutual fund investment tips to help you ring in a good 2007.Commentary
- [Tips on managing your investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine225.html)Buying individual stocks or bonds can give you more control of your money than investing in mutual funds.Commentary
- [Understanding your basic investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine226.html)Cardinal 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 returns](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine227.html)If you had to invest in just one type of mutual fund for the long term, which should it be?Commentary
- [Best deals on mutual funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine228.html)f 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 bets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine229.html)Forget the fancy footwork if you need to hedge your mutual funds. You even can skip the margin accounts.Commentary
- [Performance reports differ from real life](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine230.html)Do you really earn what your year-end mutual fund performance report says?Commentary
- [Global Stock Market Outlook](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine231.html)There's plenty of cash going into overseas stocks.Commentary
- [Will the economy and the financial markets keep on ticking in 2007?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine232.html)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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine233.html)Although 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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine234.html)You'd like to earn an 7 percent to 8 percent yield, right?Commentary
- [Tips for your pension](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine235.html)Does your employer offer a pension? Maximize the opportunity it provides.Commentary
- [Use care with these risky investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine236.html)Although 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 Funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine237.html)A 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine238.html)Over 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine239.html)Over 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine240.html)Over 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine241.html)Over 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine242.html)Over 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 Stability](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine243.html)Over 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 stocks](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine244.html)Over 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 2007](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine245.html)Despite 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 good](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine246.html)Money managers characterized the mid-cap sector as a "stock picker's market"--Commentary
- [Safe Investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine247.html)In 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 funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine248.html)Are 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 retirement](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine249.html)Target-date retirement funds for 401 (k) pension plans may prove a good deal for those who are uncomfortable investing.Commentary
- [Stock investment tips](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine250.html)As the economy gets stronger, many expect large companies with strong earnings growth to perform best.Commentary
- [Tips on investing in high-yield bond funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine251.html)You'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 ranked](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine252.html)There's a lot of great information on mutual funds at your fingertips on the web.Commentary
- [How to deal with a volatile market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine253.html)Over the past few months, the stock market has been bouncing around like a basketball. How to cope?Commentary
- [Stick with good fund managers](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine254.html)Sometimes good portfolio managers deliver lousy returns. They are not perfect stock pickers year in and year out.Commentary
- [Weathering an economic downturn with mutual funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine255.html)It 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 outlook](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine256.html)Despite 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 bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine257.html)James Keegan, manager of the American Century High Yield Fund, joins those who are cautious about the high-yield bond market.Commentary
- [Evaluating Advisers' Recommended Portfolio](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine258.html)It'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 bonds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine259.html)The 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 opportunities](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine260.html)We 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 REITs](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine261.html)Joe 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 market](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine262.html)Could "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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine263.html)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 chops](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine264.html)Although 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine265.html)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 annuities](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine266.html)If you're living on a fixed income, you know all about interest rate risk and inflation risk.Commentary
- [Investments that answer to a higher source](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine267.html)Faith-based mutual funds can deliver a strong one-two punch.Commentary
- [Investment Tips](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine268.html)There 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine269.html)Is your investment strategy to blindly follow your financial adviser's advice on which mutual funds to buy?Commentary
- [Investing your IRA rollover dollars](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine270.html)What do you do after you've rolled over your 401 (K) pension into an IRA?Commentary
- [Keep your stock fund taxes to a minimum](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine271.html)Want 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 personality](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine272.html)How would you characterize the investment personality of you and your spouse?Commentary
- [Big mistakes in 401(k) investments](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine273.html)It's tough to manage 401 (k) money in mutual funds.Commentary
- [Where to put your cash now?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine274.html)The Vanguard Prime Money Market Fund often is touted as a great place to put large amounts of cash.Commentary
- [Write legislators now](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine275.html)It'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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine276.html)We often tout the idea of target date mutual funds as, perhaps, the simplest way to invest.Commentary
- [Financial outlook: Rocky, but upbeat](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine277.html)So what's in store for your mutual funds next year?Commentary
- [Picking good mutual funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine278.html)If you want to invest in a well-managed mutual fund, how to you find the best deal?Commentary
- [Weathering an economic downturn with mutual funds](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine279.html)It 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 markets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine280.html)Does all the current news about the credit crunch make you worry about your mutual funds?Commentary
- [More rules for coping with down markets](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine281.html)Before we were married, one of us bought a property around 1985. Its value almost immediately plummeted.Commentary
- [Calculators off the mark?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine282.html)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 prudent](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine283.html)Market volatility can be scary to a family needing to save so much for the future.Commentary
- [Gold investments as inflation hedge](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine284.html)Should you invest in gold or precious metals mutual funds that own mining stocks?Commentary
- [Some experts say 2008 stock market may do better than expected](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine285.html)At least one market strategist sees a positive note in the economy.Commentary
- [How much should you consider past performance?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine286.html)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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine287.html)Money managers are cautiously optimistic about the stock market in 2008. Expect a sluggish economy.Commentary
- [Study questions hedge fund efforts to diversify](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine288.html)If you're thinking of investing in hedge funds to diversify your investments, think again.Commentary
- [How to buy low and sell high](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine289.html)The trick to investing: Buy low and sell high.Commentary
- [The word on financial talk shows](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine290.html)On 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 2008](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine291.html)Investing in sectors, which concentrate investments in a limited section of an industry, can be very risky.Commentary
- [Worldwide investing pays off](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine292.html)It pays to keep it simple when investing in mutual funds.Commentary
- [Tips on managing your holdings](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine293.html)What 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?](https://fundfreebies.com/audio3/lavine294.html)Unless your head is buried in the sand, it may look scary for our economy and our economic future.Commentary
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