A mortgage is a negative bond. Buying stocks while having a mortgage is the same as buying stocks on margin. So is buying stocks while renting.
Is Your Home an Investment?
If you get something for free it’s the same as income only if you’d pay the cash price anyway. If you are paying up front, it’s just a different way to pay for an expense.
The Difference Between Asset And Investment
What is an asset and what is an investment? Are all assets investments? Are all investments assets? Is your home an asset or an investment or both?
Bond Closed-End Funds: Good Or Bad?
This articles explains how bond closed-end funds work and how they are better or worse than the traditional open-end mutual funds and ETFs.
Roth 401(k) for People Who Contribute the Max
[Updated on October 17, 2014 with a new example.] I said in The Case Against Roth 401(k) I think for most people the majority, if not 100%, of the contribution should go to a Traditional 401(k). I gave these reasons: Fill in lower tax brackets in retirement Avoid high state income tax Leave the option open […]
Find A Financial Advisor Outside Your Local Area
Good advice comes from near and far. You will find a better financial advisor if you don’t limit yourself to advisors in your local area.
Vanguard Financial Plan Review: (4) Worth It?
Conclusion on whether the Vanguard Financial Plan is worth the time and cost and who should consider using it.
Vanguard Financial Plan Review: (3) The Consultation
Detailed review of the consultation with a CFP professional from Vanguard, as a part of the Vanguard Financial Plan service. See how Vanguard CFP answered each question.
Vanguard Financial Plan Review: (2) The Plan
Detailed review of the written plan provided by Vanguard as a part of its Vanguard Financial Plan service. Breakdown by section what the plan includes and doesn’t include.
Vanguard Financial Plan Review: (1) The Questionnaire
Detailed review of the questionnaire used in the Vanguard Financial Plan service. See what it includes and doesn’t include.
The Average Investor Should Use An Investment Advisor: How to Find One
The average investor will benefit from using a financial advisor, not just any financial advisor but a good one at a low cost. Learn how to find a good low-cost advisor at different asset levels.
Target Retirement Funds vs LifeStrategy Funds vs DIY Mix
You can invest in a Target Retirement fund or LifeStrategy fund at Vanguard. Or you can invest in several individual funds and make your own fix. See which approach is better for you.