165 Lee Ann Lane
Woodstock, IL 60098

Mike Crouch

(224) 489-7644

 

Investment

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.

 
 
Bursting the Bubble

Bursting the Bubble

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

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

Getting a Head Start on College Savings

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

Bridging the Confidence Gap

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

 

Inflation and the Real Rate of Return

Learn about the role of inflation when considering your portfolio’s rate of return with this helpful article.

How Stocks Work

Understanding how a stock works is key to understanding your investments.

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

Investment Challenges of the Affluent Investor

Affluent investors face unique challenges when putting together an investment strategy. Make sure you keep these in mind.

A Primer on Dividends

A company's profits can be reinvested or paid out to the company’s shareholders as “dividends."

Understanding Equity Compensation

Net Unrealized Appreciation and how it affects tax responsibilities.

View all articles arrow

College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

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

Comparing Investments

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

What Is My Net Worth?

Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

Wedding Budget Calculator

Estimate total wedding costs and see how different choices affect your overall budget.

How Compound Interest Works

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

View all calculators arrow

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

Where Is the Market Headed?

We all know the stock market can be unpredictable. We all want to know, "What's next for the financial markets?"

The Fed and How It Got That Way

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

Behavioral Finance

An amusing and whimsical look at behavioral finance best practices for investors.

The Real Cost of a Vacation Home

What if instead of buying that vacation home, you invested the money?

Bridging the Confidence Gap

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

View all videos arrow