One of the biggest challenges to being new to investing is that you simply don’t know where to start. Sure you may start by reading a few magazine articles. But it can be overwhelming when they start talking about things like asset allocation, Index funds, P/E ratios, Large cap, Growth sectors, Valuations, etc. What does all this stuff even mean? The truth is that you don’t need to know everything about everything to get rich. In fact, I would venture to say that most people don’t. In reality, you really only need two things to get started on your investment journey: Curiosity and Common Sense. We All Start Somewhere: No one comes into this world being a financial genius. It is something we learn along the way. And if you feel left … [Read more...] about Let Curiosity Guide You, But Common Sense Protect You
Stocks & Investing
Browsing for Stocks – January 2012
It’s a new year and I’m optimistic that new opportunities are out there. In keeping with that enthusiasm, I’d like to add a few more individual stocks to my portfolio. Traditionally, I stick with mutual funds to stay diversified, keep my costs down, and avoid the turbulence of the market. However, last year I had a great time with Apple (AAPL) (up 26% from my initial purchase) and I’m hoping I can use the same care and attention to pick another winner. Going After Dividends As part of my ongoing initiative to add passive income streams, I’ve decided that my next set of stocks should be dividend stocks. There are a lot of reasons why to look at dividend stocks for my next purchase: … [Read more...] about Browsing for Stocks – January 2012
Help! I’ve Got 401k Questions! – Your Complete 401k Guide
Let me be the first to say “Congratulations”! Despite the intimidating packet of papers you need to review and fill out as well as the dozen 401k questions you probably have, this is a great opportunity for you! Not only will you be starting down the road to financial freedom (in other words: retirement), but you'll also be given the opportunity to make FREE MONEY! Yes, I said free money! Why is it free? 1) The money you put away comes out of your paycheck BEFORE taxes and it grows tax free until you retire! 2) Your company will likely (as a lot of companies often do) kick in a little bit extra cash in addition to the money you plan to put away. Who wouldn’t take a little extra money for free! Without further ado, let's see if we can … [Read more...] about Help! I’ve Got 401k Questions! – Your Complete 401k Guide