Free ETF Trading at Many Brokerages

The types of ETFs offered commission-free differ by firm, so sort through the options carefully.

Cash In on Incentives to Open New Online Brokerage Accounts

Several discount brokers are offering cash incentives up to $2,500.

Unpopular Funds Yield Surprising Returns

Here’s how to profit by buying after other investors have fled a market sector.

Should You Invest in Akre Focus?

Chuck Akre has a long and superb record managing money. Can he keep it up at his new fund?

American Funds Bounce Back (Sort of)

The number two fund family, behind Vanguard, boasts some superb funds. But others haven't done so well in recent years.

How Small Investors Can Invest in Private-Equity Firms

Small-time investors can get in on the private-equity action, but don't expect Romney-level returns.

Should Investors Climb Aboard Carnival’s Damaged Stock?

Intrepid investors can cash in on catastrophes like the Costa Concordia shipwreck, but Carnival's prospects remain unclear.

Convertible Bonds Offer a Smooth Ride

They have produced better gains than stocks with less risk. For most people, the best way to ride converts is with Vanguard’s terrific fund.

The 5 Best Load Funds for 2012

Great, low-cost funds to ask for if you use a financial adviser. You may also find some of these gems in your 401(k) plan.

Payout Funds May Fail to Deliver Real Income

Pay attention to a few key factors that underscore the stability of a payout fund's distributions.

Protect Your Retirement Nest Egg From Market Volatility

Take these steps to keep your retirement plans on track.

Dangers in Unlisted Real Estate Trusts

The marketing of non-traded REITs as a stable investment for seniors is drawing scrutiny from regulators.

Should You Dump Pimco Total Return?

Bill Gross is arguably the best bond-fund manager on the planet. But his fund is much too big, and you can find a lot of better alternatives.

Investing Social Security Benefits Not Worth the Risk

In theory, taking benefits early to invest might sound good. But in reality, there are a lot of pitfalls.

Bullish on Dividends

Even though the Dogs of the Dow include three health stocks, they should have another fine year.

If Interest Rates Rise, Bonds or Bond Funds?

A fixed-income investor should weigh the pros and cons of owning individual bonds versus shares of bond funds.

Tracking Your Basis is Worth the Work

Knowing the amount of money you invested in a stock can help you hold on to more of a gain or make the best of a loss.

Shop for Stocks Among Clothing Retailers

Fashion trends can change overnight, so look for companies that have a keen sense of style.

What You Need to Know About Stock Markets Today

Thanks to electronic trading, the stock market is wilder than ever.

Keep Calm When Markets Roil

With the markets going up and down, older investors may be tempted to flee from stocks. Consider these age-based strategies first, before making any moves.

Beware Reverse Convertibles

Double-digit yields on these securities may seem tempting, but you risk losing part of your original investment.

How to Buy and Sell an ETF

Small-Cap Stalwart Goes Abroad

Royce translates its stock-picking skills to bargain-priced foreign companies.

A Worthy Replacement for a Star Manager

The once-revered Bill Miller is expected to hand the reins of Legg Mason Value to his soon-to-be co-manager Sam Peters.

Portfolios That Fit Your Needs

Tailor your investing plan to match your goals, time frame and appetite for risk.

Shareholders Unite Online

The Web makes it easier for investors to have a say.

Emerging Markets Hit the Big Time

These seven companies in developing nations offer first-rate opportunities for growth.

3 Superb Emerging-Market Fund Choices

Ring Out the E Bonds, Ring In the I Bonds

The rate on I bonds gets a boost.

2009 Best List: Financial Resources & Advice

Click here for info on the best stocks, bonds and funds sites.

Lessons From the Crisis

13 maxims for the times.

Shareholders Will Flex Some Muscle
in Proxy Season

The SEC is giving investors a lot more power, and they’re sure to use it.

The 6 Best Stocks to Buy Now

Whether the market goes up or down from here, these blue chips are great investments.

7 Lessons From the Meltdown

The financial crisis can make you a better investor -- really.

What Went Wrong at Dodge & Cox?

The firm's intensive research failed to anticipate the implosion in financial stocks.

How to Invest With $500 or Less

Think you don't have enough money to invest? It's better to start small than not at all. We show you how to buy top-notch funds and stocks whether you have $50, $100 or $500.