Investment | Valley Oak

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.

16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

Pundits say a lot of things about the markets. Let's see if you can keep up.

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The Cycle of Investing

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

Separating the Signal From the Noise

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

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Types of Stock Market Analysis

Most stock market analysis falls into three broad groups: Fundamental, technical, and sentimental. Here’s a look at each.

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

Pullbacks, Corrections, and Bear Markets

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

TIPS for Inflation

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

Key Money Moments: 4 Times You Should Talk to a Pro

Life happens fast, and your finances can take a backseat if you’re not careful. Is it time to check in with a financial professional? This infographic will help you examine your own financial situation and decide if it’s time to step up your financial game.

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.

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What Is My Net Worth?

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

The Power of Interest - How Long Will it take My Money to Do

Use the Rule of 72 to estimate how long it takes your money to double at a given rate.

Comparing Investments

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

Debt vs. Investment

Weigh the potential outcomes of paying off debt versus directing those dollars elsewhere.

Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments

See how switching to bi-weekly mortgage payments could reduce interest and shorten your loan.

College Savings

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

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

All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.

The Cycle of Investing

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

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Bull and Bear Go To Market

Learn about the difference between bulls and bears—markets, that is!

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

Jane Bond: Scaling the Ladder

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