Investment | Successful Planning Services

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.

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

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Bridging the Confidence Gap

In the world of finance, the effects of the "confidence gap" can be especially apparent.

How Financial Professionals Are Compensated

Read this overview to learn how financial advisors are compensated.

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Risk Perspective

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

Are You Ready for Your Portfolio to Make a Difference?

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

You Would Rather Be...

Are you a thrill seeker, or content to relax in the backyard? Use this flowchart to find out more about your risk tolerance.

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.

Your Shifting Risk Tolerance

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

Estimating the Cost of College

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

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Debt vs. Investment

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

Monthly Budget

Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.

What Is My Net Worth?

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

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

College Savings

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

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Investments

You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.

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?”

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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