Investment | The Smith Group

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.

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.

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Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

Five for Friday – August 21, 2026

Ross looks at silver linings to bubbles, the average stock, the importance of breadth and the danger of leverage.

The Rule of 72

Do you know how long it may take for your investments to double in value? The Rule of 72 is a quick way to figure it out.

Modeling Good Financial Behavior for Your Kids

Kids learn to handle money from watching you. Here are 8 ways to show them how to be responsible savers and consumers.

Five for Friday – March 20, 2026

Ross looks at consumer tailwinds and headwinds and reminds us of the importance of realistic expectations in investing.

In the Markets Now: Bull Market Biopsy

With U.S. stocks near all-time highs, it’s natural to wonder if we are getting close to the end of this bull market.

In the Markets Now: Betting Boom

The line between investing and gambling has blurred. Ross adds some clarity.

Bull & Baird: Elections and You

Elections matter in many ways. But for your portfolio? They don't matter as much as you might think.

Best-Performing Asset Classes

Bonds may outperform stocks one year only to have stocks rebound the next.

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Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

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

College Savings

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

What Is My Net Worth?

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

Monthly Budget

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

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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.

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?"

The Cycle of Investing

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Global and International Funds

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