Investment | Ryan Valley

Investing should be easy – just buy low and sell high – but most of us have trouble following that simple advice. There are principles and strategies that may enable you to put together an investment portfolio that reflects your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. Understanding these principles and strategies can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that snare some investors.

Bridging the Confidence Gap

In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

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The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

The Utility of Sector Investing

Successful sector investing is dependent upon an accurate analysis about when to rotate in and out.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

Separating the Signal From the Noise

A good professional provides important guidance and insight through the years.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

Understanding ETFs: Building Blocks of Modern Investing

Educational ETF infographic explaining benefits, types & mechanics. Features current statistics and citations.

Impact Investing or Philanthropy

This fun piece can help your clients explore the benefits of impact investing versus founding a philanthropy.

The Threat of Identity Theft

An article informing readers about the threats of Identity Theft.

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

When the market experiences volatility, it may be a good time to review these common terms.

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How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

How Compound Interest Works

Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.

College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

Comparing Investments

Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

What Is My Net Worth?

Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

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Inflation and Your Portfolio

Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.

Jane Bond: Infiltrating the Market

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, cracking the code on bonds.

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

There are thousands of ETFs available. Should you invest in them?

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.

Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"

The Fed and How It Got That Way

Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.