The Hidden Differences Between Index Funds
These funds don't all match index returns. Find out how to avoid costly surprises.
Floating-Rate Mutual Funds: Rewards And Risks
In an economy with low interest rates, investors need to get creative in order to reap high returns.
Activist Hedge Funds: Follow The Trail To Profit
Learn to profit by following the lead of some of Wall Street's most ruthless investors.
When To Sell A Mutual Fund
Unhappy with your mutual fund's returns and thinking of investing elsewhere? Read this article first.
Digging Deeper: The Mutual Fund Prospectus
The legal jargon of this document can be daunting. Find out how to get to the important stuff.
Do Money-Market Funds Pay?
This investment provides security, but its returns may not be adequate for long-term investors.
Top 5 All-Time Best Mutual Fund Managers
The best managers produced long-term, market-beating returns and helped investors build big nest eggs. Find out who made the cut.
Published Mutual Fund Returns Not Always What They Appear
Survivorship bias erases substandard performers, distorting overall mutual fund returns.
Why Country Funds Are So Risky
High returns come at a price, but country funds may still be a good bet.
Mutual Fund Tune-Up Delivers High-Powered Performance
Rebalancing your portfolio will protect you from risk and ensure that your investments are performing at their best.
The Future Of Mutual Funds
Decreases in mutual fund classes and the growing use of ETFs means the future of mutual funds will be anything but smooth.
Should You Follow Your Fund Manager?
Learn how to tell if a fund in flux is still a suitable investment.
What Does Your Mutual Fund Say About You?
How your fund votes on proxy issues will reveal whether it's acting in your best interest and according to your beliefs.
What Mutual Fund Market Cap Suits Your Style?
Different funds invest in companies with different market caps. Find out which is right for you.
Which Mutual Fund Style Index Is For You?
The Russell Investments and MSCI Barra style classification systems can help you pick the right mutual fund - if you know how they work.
5 Ways To Measure Mutual Fund Risk
These statistical measurements highlight how to mitigate risk and increase rewards.
Mutual Funds Are Awesome - Except When They're Not
This investment is very popular, but that doesn't mean it comes without risk.
Go International With Foreign Index Funds
Find out how these worldly offerings can spice up your portfolio.
Open Your Eyes To Closed-End Funds
Although less popular than their open-ended counterparts, these investment vehicles are worth a second look.
January: Time To Read Your Mutual Fund's Annual Report
Don't let this valuable piece of mail end up in your trash can.
Using Mutual Funds To Profit From Market Dips
Stop hoping for the indexes to go up and start investing in the reverse.
Socially (Ir)responsible Mutual Funds
Not concerned about being an ethical investor? Maybe "sinful stocks" have a place in your portfolio.
Mutual Funds: Does Size Really Matter?
The growth of mutual funds isn't always cause for celebration. Read on to find out why not.
A Brief History Of The Hedge Fund
Find out how this U.S.-born investment innovation became a $1-trillion industry that's both praised and vilified by the media.
Money Market Mutual Funds: A Better Savings Account
Forget the sock drawer - learn how to earn big bucks over the short term.
The Lowdown On No-Load Mutual Funds
These funds let you cut out the middleman - and the fees.
Why It Pays To Be A Lazy Investor
Be a couch potato! This passive, but diversified, investing strategy could be for you.
Mutual Fund Style Drift Not Always A Bad Thing
Style drift has a bad reputation, but it can be a sign that your fund is thriving.
Analyzing Mutual Funds For Maximum Return
Using a few simple metrics will help you pick the right fund for your portfolio.
Financial Funds Provide Diversity ... And Risk
Sector funds can provide maximum exposure to financial industry stocks, but this benefit is a double-edged sword.
Stable Value Funds: Risk Less And Earn More
Stable value funds can provide higher yields and lower risk.
Fund Of Funds - High Society For The Little Guy
Like a mutual fund, FOFs provide instant diversity by grouping many hedge funds into one product.
Your Investment Manager: Skilled Or Lucky?
Being familiar with composite presentations will give you insight into the true quality of the investment manager's performance.
Socially Responsible Mutual Funds
It is possible to avoid unethical investments and still profit from mutual funds. Find out how!
That's A (Mutual Fund) Wrap!
These advisory programs offer professional supervision and other handy tools for building a diversified portfolio.
Your Mutual Fund: It's Riskier Than You Think
Fund managers often take on more risk than they should, putting business ahead of fund holders' interests.
Understanding The Mutual Fund Style Box
Evaluate your investments with this simple tool.
Too Many Mutual Funds?
Is there a magic number you should be aiming for? Find out here.
A Brief History Of The Mutual Fund
This popular investment vehicle has seen its share of ups and downs, successes and scandals. Read all about it!
Build Your Portfolio With Infrastructure Investments
Mutual funds devoted to keeping roads, structures and communities safe can make you money.
Beware The Index Hugger
These funds put the squeeze on your money. Don't pay for service you're not getting.
Active Management: Is It Working For You?
There are guidelines to be followed when comparing an actively-managed investment strategy with a benchmark.
The Rise Of The Hedged Mutual Fund
Discover these growing funds, which were previously unavailable to the average investor.
Stop Paying High Mutual Fund Fees
Discover how investment strategies and expense ratios impact your mutual fund's returns.
The ABCs Of Mutual Fund Classes
Do you understand how the various types of shares differ? We give you the pros and cons of each.
Bear Funds: A Bullish Stance On Bad Times
Even if the market is in a decline your portfolio doesn't have to be.
Hedge Funds: Higher Returns Or Just High Fees?
Discover the advantages and pitfalls of hedge funds and the questions to ask when choosing one.
Dollar-Cost Averaging Pays
Get the most out of your mutual fund by using this simple but powerful strategy.
Losing The Amaranth Gamble
Investors in this fund didn't see it coming. Would you?
Hedge Funds Hunt For Upside, Regardless Of The Market
Hedge funds seek positive absolute returns, and engage in aggressive strategies to make this happen.
Managing A Portfolio Of Mutual Funds
Wing it or re-balance? Discover some common strategies to devise a plan and maintain your holdings to relect that plan.
Bear Market Mauls Target-Date Funds
This "set it and forget it" approach to investing is appealing, but it's not the best protection against a bear market.
Subaccounts: As Good Their Clone Funds?
Variable annuity subaccounts are virtual clones of mutual funds but they have their own CUSIP number and their historical performances are tracked separately.
Precious Metals Funds: A Golden Opportunity?
Used intelligently, precious metals can help an investor obtain decent returns in a terrible market.
Turnover Ratios Weak Indicator Of Fund Quality
This indicator is not as important as some investors might think.
Healthcare Funds: Give Your Portfolio A Booster Shot
Find out how healthcare investments can become the strongest asset in your portfolio.
Don't Lose Your Shirt On Mutual Fund Sales
Mutual funds aren't guaranteed profit-makers, but with the right calculations and timing, you can avoid major losses.
Who Needs Bonds When You Can Have Income Mutual Funds?
Income mutual funds can offer a lot of advantages and security, and may leave you wondering: who needs bonds?
Getting To Know Hedge-Like Mutual Funds
This type of alternative investment mutual fund gives investors the benefits of a hedge fund, without the need for high net worth. See if this strategy is right for you.
Income Funds 101
Income funds don't have to be bonds, there are plenty to choose from. Read up on the types of income funds and whether they fit your investment needs.
Is Your Mutual Fund Safe?
You might be carrying more risk than you think if your fund invests in derivatives.
Mutual Fund Ratings: Are They Deceiving?
Rating systems are a helpful - but not perfect - tool to help you find a winning fund.
Quantitative Analysis Of Hedge Funds
Similar metrics as those used for mutual funds apply, but hedge fund analysis requires additional depth.
Breaking The Buck: Why Low Risk Is Not Risk-Free
Money market funds have been assumed to be safe investments, and they are - but only to a point.
Hedge Fund Due Diligence
Analyzing a hedge fund will help you determine whether it's a good investment - and a good fit.
Advantages Of Mutual Funds
Get diversification, liquidity and professional management at an affordable price.
Segregated Funds: Investment Protection For Canadian Citizens
These funds contain the best of all worlds, providing opportunities for market growth with a no-loss guarantee.
Mine For Profits With Natural Resource Sector Funds
These funds allow everyday investors to get in on the action in this promising sector.
Getting Positive Results With Market-Neutral Funds
Find out how these mutual funds can add some flavor to your bland portfolio.
Commodity Funds 101
These funds make investing in gold, oil or grain an easier prospect.
Picking Top-Quality Hedge Funds
Narrowing down your choices is the first step to finding a winning fund.
Liquidation Blues: When Mutual Funds Close
Underperforming funds often close their doors, leaving investors down and out.
Seek Out Past Losses To Uncover Future Gains
Tax loss carry-forwards can help reduce the tax burden of owning a profitable fund.
Analyzing Mutual Fund Risk
Find out whether a fund's performance is a result of the manager's abilities, or just a fluke.
Do Focused Funds Provide a Better Outlook?
Should you diversify or focus? Read on to decide which will work best for you.
Why Invest In International Equity Mutual Funds?
Going global may help increase your portfolio return but is the unique risk worth it?
8 Reasons To Dump A Mutual Fund
Buy and hold is not forever. Find out when it pays to sell your fund and move on.
Technology Sector Funds
Evaluate the past performance before investing in these types of gadget funds.
Utility Funds: A Bright Choice In Bear And Bull Markets
Gas, electric and water companies' non-cyclical nature can power strong gains in any portfolio.
Should You Invest In Rookie Funds?
Taking a chance on a brand-new mutual fund can add some all-star quality to your portfolio.
Why Money Market Funds Break The Buck
These funds are noted for their safety in a rough market. Read on to find out why.
An Introduction To Sovereign Wealth Funds
Countries use these investments to stabilize their economies, but critics worry about their lack of transparency.
The Risks Of Real Estate Sector Funds
Find out how home ownership can affect your portfolio's return.
Digging Deeper Into Mutual Fund Names
Go beyond the name and find out if that fund fits into your portfolio.
Leisure Funds: Where Luxury And Fun Come To Make Money
If you thought investing and fun don't go together, think again. Find out more here.
Looking For Income? Consider Prime Rate Funds
These funds may give you the reliable stream of income you need when you're retired.
Recession-Proof Mutual Funds
When the economy blows up, these funds offer some protection from major losses.
Can You Invest Like A Hedge Fund?
Hedge funds earn big returns for investors. Find out how they do it and whether you can too.
The Hidden Costs Of Investing
Find the hidden fees in your portfolio to increase your rate of return.
An Introduction To Sector Funds
Investing among several different sectors in the economy is a way to diversify your portfolio.
Separately Managed Accounts: A Mutual Fund Alternative
It takes a hefty minimum investment to get in in on an SMA, but these offer some distinct advantages.
Hedge Funds' Higher Returns Come At A Price
Learn how hedge funds win big gains for investors - and why they sometimes lose.
Break Free Of Fees With Mutual Fund Breakpoints
The lower the sales charge you pay, the greater your returns. Find our how to cash in.
Targeted-Distribution Funds May Crack Nest Eggs
These funds can help replace an employer pension, but you have to know the risks.
How Mutual Funds Differ Around The Globe
Learn which country has the strictest rules on mutual fund construction, and why.
Uncovering Closed-End Funds
If you're looking to generate income for your investments, look no further.
Are Money Market Fund Risks Worth It?
Find out whether stocking your money in these accounts will stand up to the test of time.
Will A New Fund Manager Cost You?
Learn how a change in leadership could mean more taxes for you.
Active Share Measures Active Management
A 2006 study proves the effectiveness of a new way of sizing up your portfolio manager.
Focus Pocus May Not Lead To Magical Returns
Portfolio managers' style drift can be risky business for investors.
Picking The Right Mutual Fund
Learn how to narrow down your list from thousands of choices.
Proprietary Mutual Funds: What's A Label Worth?
Find out whether an in-house fund will serve you better than a major company's fund offerings.
Closing Funds: Investment Protection Or Trap?
When a fund stops accepting new investors, it can either be a sign of damage or good management
Canary Capital Partners: Anatomy Of A Scandal
Learn how a hedge fund scammed its way to profits and caught investors off-guard.
Introduction To Money Market Mutual Funds
Learn about the easiest way to benefit from money market securities.
Donor-Advised Funds Streamline Charitable Giving
Beat the tax man come April 15 by investing in a charity-friendly fund.
Morningstar Lights The Way
Looking for current mutual fund information? We'll look at one of the places to start your search.
Mutual Fund Management: Team Players Or All-Stars?
Learn which management style best fits your investment goals.
Has Your Fund Manager Been Through A Bear Market?
How to find a portfolio that will survive when the bulls stop charging.
Morningstar's Stewardship Grade Scores Big
Morningstar's service gives investors an idea how well fund companies are safeguarding their interests.
Why Late Trading Is Illegal
Institutional investors got a sweet deal that soured retail investors' mutual fund returns.
Enhanced Index Funds - Shiny Paper Or Sparkling Gift?
Find out whether these funds can really deliver low-risk returns.
Hedge Funds Go Retail
Find out how average investors are breaking into what was once reserved for the ultra rich.
Fundamentally Weighted Index Investing
If you believe the market smiles on those who focus on value, growth or income, this vehicle may be for you.
Private Equity Opens Up For The Little Investor
Find out whether this pricey investment is for you and how you can invest.
Major Blunders In Portfolio Construction
Do you have the best mix of investments? Find out how to make sure.
Side-By-Side Management May Favor Hedge Over Mutual Funds
Having your firm handle both investments can spell disaster for your returns.
Massive Hedge Fund Failures
Flying high one day but not the next - see the stories behind some spectacular meltdowns.
Broadening The Borders Of Your Portfolio
Want to gain exposure to foreign markets? Find out what type of international fund might suit your needs.
Evaluating Bond Funds: Keeping It Simple
We go over some of the key factors for determining a fund's risk-return profile.
Life-Cycle Funds: Can It Get Any Simpler?
Discover a security that offers a way for you to put your retirement portfolio on autopilot.
Separately Managed Accounts: A Boon For All
We provide an explanation of individual cost basis and the advantages it brings to these accounts.
Understanding Volatility Measurements
How do you choose a fund with an optimal risk-reward combination? We teach you about standard deviation, beta and more!
Lazy Portfolio Strategies For Your RRSP
We'll show you a cheap and easy way to secure good returns for the long term.
Taking A Look Behind Hedge Funds
Some of these claim consistent returns even in declining markets, but they're not immune to risk!
