Investment | Retzlaff Wealth Management

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.

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

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Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

Risk Perspective

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

Should You Invest in Exchange Traded Funds?

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

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

A few strategies that may help you prepare for the cost of higher education.

Asset Allocation

Consider how your assets are allocated and if that allocation is consistent with your time frame and risk tolerance.

How the Federal Reserve Works

Each day, the Fed is behind the scenes supporting the economy and providing services to the U.S. financial system.

Understanding ETFs: Building Blocks of Modern Investing

Educational ETF infographic explaining benefits, types & mechanics. Features current statistics and citations.

All Muni Bonds Are Not Created Equal

Gaining a better understanding of municipal bonds makes more sense than ever.

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How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

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.

Comparing Investments

Compare two different scenarios side by side to see how they stack up over time.

How Compound Interest Works

Explore how compound interest can grow your money over time with this interactive tool.

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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.

What Smart Investors Know

Savvy investors take the time to separate emotion from fact.

Inflation and Your Portfolio

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

The Cycle of Investing

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

Bursting the Bubble

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

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?