Key Takeaways Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, are listed on exchanges and traded like shares of stock Leveraged ETFs and inverse ETFs use derivatives with the aim of amplifying returns Understand the unique risks associated with leveraged and inverse ETFs Leveraged and inverse ETFs entail unique risks, including but not limited to: use of leverage; aggressive […]

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Key Takeaways A defensive investing strategy can help offer protection during volatile markets Defensive sectors include consumer staples and utilities Investors can access defensive sectors through individual stocks as well as bonds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) They say the best offense is a good defense. It’s a favorite cliché among many sports coaches. And a […]

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Key Takeaways Climate-change worries have been sparking interest in investing in renewable energy  Although the long-term returns of some sustainable indices have lagged the broader market, short-term returns show outperformance Interested in investing in renewable energy? When it comes to socially responsible investing, concerns about climate change and the environment are at the front of […]

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Key Takeaways Stock trading volume has often been lower in the summer months. Historically, health care, and utilities are among the sectors that have outperformed during the summer. Will that be the case this summer? No one knows. The old stock market trend adage “sell in May, go away” might not be the best portfolio management […]

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Key Takeaways Decide if you want to broaden your portfolio. Consider diversifying with ETFs—there’s generally at least one for every type of investor. Identify goals and investment preferences to help streamline your search. Looking for a more efficient way to diversify your portfolio? You may want to consider an exchange-traded fund (ETF). With an ETF, […]

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Key Takeaways Enrollees can earn passive income by loaning out shares  Usually low-liquidity shares are in highest demand  Qualified account owners can enroll online and exit the program at any time In an era of historically low interest rates, income-seeking investors often choose to look beyond traditional bonds to target income. Some investors seek income […]

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Key Takeaways Mutual funds present investors with an efficient means of holding a large, diversified basket of assets The mutual fund universe offers a varying range of opportunities and risks; choose carefully Understanding your financial goals, engagement levels, and risk tolerance is key to selecting a suitable mix of mutual funds So, you’ve decided your […]

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Key Takeaways Diversification is both the attraction and Achilles’ heel of conglomerates GE and Berkshire Hathaway are among some famous old-school conglomerates Amazon represents the vanguard of modern conglomerates Is it fair to think of conglomerates like General Electric (GE) and Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A) (BRK.B) as the original mutual funds? In general, a conglomerate company […]

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Key Takeaways Social trading can be an informative way to invest, as long as you approach it with caution Know when consensus in opinion among forum participants starts resembling herd mentality Understand there isn’t always safety, let alone wisdom, in numbers In late January, we saw some quiet and underperforming stocks unexpectedly rise in value […]

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Key Takeaways Winning stocks of 2020 benefited from shutdowns, but clues were there before the pandemic Deep research into long-term trends might have helped identify 2020 winners early As 2021 dawns, 2020 stock winners must focus on next steps in corporate development Investors who enjoyed huge 2020 gains in the best-performing stocks while avoiding the […]

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