Investment | LPL Financial

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.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

Agent Jane Bond is on the case, uncovering the mystery of bond laddering.

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The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

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

TIPS for Inflation

If you are concerned about inflation and expect short-term interest rates may increase, TIPS could be worth considering.

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?"

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

Learn about the rise of Impact Investing and how it may benefit you.

Estimating the Cost of College

This worksheet can help you estimate the costs of a four-year college program.

Investing with Your Heart

For some, the social impact of investing is just as important as the return, perhaps more important.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

Learn about key investment principles that will help you navigate the unpredictability of the financial markets.

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Comparing Investments

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

Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

How Compound Interest Works

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

College Savings

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

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

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Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

The Cycle of Investing

Understanding the cycle of investing may help you avoid easy pitfalls.

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.