Another one bites the dust.Just when investors thought the exchange-traded fund was the absolutely perfect investment to diversify their portfolios, it turns out it can carry risks just like other vehicles.A number of ETFs, which are mutual a

The week leading up to your retirement is busy with farewells, an office party, and hurried completion of numerous major projects. But you look forward to finally being able to settle back, catch your breath, and enjoy a life of leisure.Only one

Many would-be stock investors are awaiting a perfect storm.That is a miraculous time when prospects for gains are outstanding, prices are reasonable, and risk is minimal.They shouldn't hold their breath. In 2008, stock prices were low but dim

A mid-year financial checkup is important in a year in which the world doesn't want us to get too comfortable.The first half of 2010 is yesterday's news. But whether news is good or bad the remainder of the year, you can't deal with it unless In

The search for high yields presents a quandary for income investors.If interest rates rise in the future, the value of high-yield, longer-term bonds bought now will decline. But if a high-dividend-paying stock is chosen, the investor needs to be

Sometimes—especially when a bear market awakens from its hibernation—investors begin to feel the urge to take a flier on a higher-risk mutual fund.Which can be OK. Having a very small portion of your holdings in speculative choices can

Food for thought: The price of food is on the rise, but investors should be aware that this global phenomenon doesn't affect all food companies the same way.Cereal, salty-snack, candy, and beverage companies can most easily pass along their on a

Consider the upbeat scenario: An improved economy reinvigorates consumers, who run out to buy pairs of new shoes.While that is an oversimplified example of cause and effect, it depicts the basic logic behind some of the good prospects for They a

You can't track fees without a scorecard in the topsy-turvy 2010 financial world.While bank fees and credit card rates have increased, some fee-only financial planners scaled back their fees in deference to clients whose principal had dwindled.

The battle of growth versus value investing rages on in 2010.Growth stocks represent companies whose better-than-average earnings gains raise the expectation they'll continue to deliver high profit growth.Value stocks are out-of-favor stocks