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Learning About Investing


A quick overview of some investment issues.


A certain portion of your investments needs to be available to meet short-term cash flow problems or emergencies.


Your choice of investments will be determined by your ultimate goals and your time frame for reaching them.


Higher potential returns generally come with increased risk. Find your comfort zone.


Explore the basics of equity (stock) and debt (bond) instruments.
   The Financial Markets
   Individual Stocks
   Bonds
   Zero Coupon Bonds
   GICs


For the average investor, mutual funds can provide good returns with reduced risk.
   Introduction to Mutual Funds
   Money Market Mutual Funds
   Bond Mutual Funds
   Stock (Equity) Mutual Funds
   Hybrid Mutual Funds
   Retirement Plans and Mutual Funds
   Mutual Fund Management & Costs


An annuity may be a good way for you to grow your funds on a tax-deferred basis.
   How Annuities Work
   Types Of Annuities
   Individual Retirement Annuities
   Understanding The Fees
   How Do I Select An Annuity?


Variable Annuities bring together many of the features of mutual funds and life insurance.
   Introduction to Annuities
   Variable Annuities
   Do Your Homework First
   Getting Started
   Additional Features And Options
   Dollar Cost Averaging
   Transferring Money Between Portfolios
   A Note About Taxes
   Are Variable Annuities For You?
   Summary


For most investors, the place to start is the IRA. It is one of the most powerful investment vehicles available to individuals today. Find out how it fits in your investment portfolio.
   Traditional IRAs & Roth IRA
   Tax Deductible?
   Rollovers and Other Issues


Explore other investment options.
   Real Estate - R.E.I.T.s
   Real Estate - Limited Partnerships
   Life Insurance
   Primary Residence
   Rental Property


Don't put all your eggs in one basket!
   Introduction to Asset Allocation
   Fund Overlap
   Age and Diversification


Minimize your risk of market fluctuations with this investment method.


Once invested, your funds need to be managed.
   Reallocating Your Investments
   Market Timing
   Watching the Market
   Sources of Information


Planning for and deferring taxes will make a large difference in your total investment returns. Look at these tax advantaged products.
   Tax-Deferred and Tax-Free Investments
   Savings Bonds
   Coverdell Education Savings Accounts
   Annuities
   Cash-Value Life Insurance
   Roth IRAs
   Capital Gains
   Mutual Funds
   Deductible Investment Expenses


Some final thoughts on your investment plan.


A list of many investment terms or phrases with an explanation.


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