Investing
Why Your Nest Isn't a Nest Egg
The single worst thing the real estate boom did to average Americans was creating a fantasy that you could count on your home equity as part of your retirement plan. But national average home prices have fallen almost 40% since 2008—putting a... ➡
The Female Financial Paradox
This week’s TIME cover feature explores an amazing phenomenon: Women could soon outpace men as the primary household earners. What they’ve missed is the powerful, but sadder story within this trend: Female breadwinners may be on the rise, but... ➡
Investments That Make The World Better
Socially responsible investing (SRI) is one way to feel good while doing good, for the world as well as your pocketbook.But trying to define SRI companies isn’t black-and-white. Some investors value how “green” the company is more than diversity... ➡
When Debt Can Make You Richer
What do the very rich know that the rest of us don’t? That the D-word—that would be debt—can actually be a tool for building wealth.After the financial disasters of the last five years, that may seem counterintuitive, to say the least. But... ➡
Socially Responsible Investing Does Not Mean Lower Returns
By choosing a socially responsible investment (SRI) fund, you don't have to sacrifice performance. According to Victoria Collins, Ph.D., CFP, a senior managing director of First Foundation Advisors, "SRI funds perform as well if not better than... ➡
Inflation Translation
Remember when a slice of pizza was $1 or a cup of coffee was 50 cents? (If that was before your time, bear with us.) These days, depending on where you live, a slice is about $2 and a cup of ordinary, nondesigner coffee is about $1.25. At least.... ➡
Reclaiming “Wealth”
A few times a year, I have the honor of teaching a personal finance seminar at my alma mater, Barnard College, in Manhattan. The class is called “Preparing for Life After College,” and it’s aimed at juniors and seniors. When I walk into the... ➡
Saving for Higher(-cost) Education
Tell me if this sounds familiar: You read a story about how you should start saving for college the minute your kid is born. You look at your baby, pooping in his onesie, and think, “Dang, I’m already late to the party!” And so you do…nothing.... ➡
