As sequester-related furloughs kick in across a number of federal agencies, investors are being reminded that the US economy likely won’t escape unscathed from these government-imposed spending cuts. Russ K explains what this means and how investors can prepare a portfolio for a slowing economy and springtime swoon.
CASSHing-Out
Russ explains why he’s no longer advocating the concept of investing in certain smaller developed countries known as the CASSH countries.
Defining “Quality” When it Comes to Investing
Quality is a very popular word within the fund-management world. But what exactly does it mean and how can it be used to make investment decisions? Daniel Morillo explains.
Has Gold Lost its Luster?
Following its most dramatic sell-off in years, gold’s role in a portfolio is back in focus. With investors asking if now is the time to buy or sell the precious metal, Russ K weighs in with his view.
How to Access Emerging Market Growth – No EM Stocks Required
Emerging markets have gotten off to a poor start this year, leaving many investors shying away from EM stocks. But investing directly in EM equities isn’t the only way to access the growth of the developing world. Russ highlights which sectors and developed markets provide the most indirect EM exposure.
What’s an iSharesBond? (Video)
Matt Tucker explains how iSharesBonds are taking the benefits of individual bonds — regular income and a lump sum payment at the end — and combining them with the features of an ETF.
Obama’s Proposed IRA Cap: Sending the Wrong Message?
As part of his budget proposal, President Obama has suggested capping the tax deferral benefit of IRA and 401(k) balances at $3 million. While the current proposal may only affect a small percent of accounts, Chip Castille cautions against any action that could undermine investors’ commitment to save.
Jessie’s Excellent Financial Adventure: 5 College Saving Tips
Follow Jessie Szymanski’s journey to greater financial wellbeing. The next hurdle: Figuring out how to save now for a child’s college education.
4 Housing Recovery Investment Trends
How are investors using ETFs to take advantage of improving trends in the housing market? Dodd Kittsley delves into the numbers to track flows into US-listed funds that provide access to mortgage bonds, home builders, equity REITs and mortgage REITs.
Hindsight to Insight: Forced Personal Austerity (Video)
Even the experts don’t always get it right. In this video series our investments gurus share a personal investment mistake from the past — and talk about what they learned in the process. In this short video, Matt Tucker recalls how a bag of M&M’s led to a lesson in credit card debt.
