Investment | The Ragen 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.

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

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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.

All That Matters: Things That Surprise Us

Mike Antonelli and Ross Mayfield share a few things that are shocking them about the markets and economy today.

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

In the Markets Now: King Cash (and False Security)

Ross explains why cash feels comfortable but is not a wealth-building tool.

Making the Most of Employee Stock Ownership

Employee stock purchase plans are powerful investment vehicles. Learn their key benefits and how to take advantage of them.

Next Year's Debt Ceiling Expiration and the Tax Debate

The outcome of the election will be key to how the debt ceiling is resolved next year.

Can a Stock Market Selloff Be a Good Thing?

When a down market can be a blessing in disguise.

The Investment Risk No One’s Ever Heard Of

You face a risk for which the market does not compensate you, that can not be easily reduced through diversification.

Bull & Baird: What Gets Attention is Rarely Valuable

The present moment often feels chaotic, but the stock market's advance across decades is strewn with such moments.

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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.

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

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

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.

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Global and International Funds

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

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

From Boats to Brokers

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

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.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.