| | Strong dollar or weak dollar? Which is most desirable for the U.S. economy depends on who you ask. A bigger question might be does anyone understand the ramifications of a policy decision that pushes one strategy over the other? The global economy is incredibly complex with multiple consequences of any major decision. Before acting, we should be very sure we have considered all the consequences of the decision and prepared contingency plans for the unintended consequences. | | Owning Bonds Directly and Owning Bonds Through Funds Is Not the Same Bonds should be a part of every stock investors portfolio. They provide a counter to the volatility of the stock market and can be a source of income. An important issue to consider is whether to own bonds directly or indirectly through a mutual fund (or exchange traded fund). Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. Follow me on Twitter | Stock Investors Should Use Caution with IlLiquid or Exotic Assets Investors in the stock market should make certain their portfolio remains diversified and balanced to reflect their risk tolerance and financial goals. However, be careful when using illiquid or exotic assets as part of your portfolio. The role of illiquid assets in a portfolio is a much debated topic. Most investment professionals see portfolios as comprised of asset classes that identify different types of investments. Follow me on Twitter | Investing in and for Retirement How you fund and maintain the assets in your retirement portfolio is the most important decision most investors in the stock market make. If you are too conservative with your stock investing strategy, you may not have enough to retire when and in the manner you want. If you take too many risks investing in the stock market, you may see your retirement funds disappear in a gut-wrenching market slide at just the time you planned to retire. Follow me on Twitter | Taxes Taxes are a part of investing. You must keep careful records of your transactions to avoid trouble at tax time. Generally, long-term investors can avoid the worst of tax penlites. | | | | Stocks Ads | | | | Featured Articles | | | | | | | | Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics | | | | You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Stocks newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2011 About.com | | | | | Must Reads | | Advertisement | |