Investment | SMG 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.

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

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16 Wall Street Cliches in 60 Seconds

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

What It Takes to Become an Accredited Investor

What does it take to be an accredited investor? Explore the details, & the types of investments offered to those who qualify.

The Cycle of Investing

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

TIPS for Inflation

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

Global vs. International: What’s the Difference?

International funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.

Risk Perspective

Is it possible to avoid loss? Not entirely, but you can attempt to manage risk.

Your Shifting Risk Tolerance

Time and market performance may subtly and slowly imbalance your portfolio.

A Primer on Dividends

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

Separating the Signal From the Noise

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

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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.

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.

Taxable vs. Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare how the same contribution grows differently in taxable versus tax-deferred accounts.

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.

What Is My Net Worth?

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

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Inflation and Your Portfolio

Even low inflation rates can pose a threat to investment returns.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

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

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

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?"