When considering a new field to invest in, research is key.  Consider, for example, the up and coming alternative energy sector.  Why would I invest in alternative energy mutual funds?  Would they be a good fit for my portfolio?  Lets explore the different advantages and disadvantages of investing in alternative energy.

Alternative energy involves energy sources other than fossil fuels.  Fossil fuels will run out one day, so the development and implementation of an alternative energy solution is vital for future energy consumption.  Alternative energy sources include solar power, wind power, hydroelectric power, and biofuels.  These options also have the advantage of being renewable.  They are also a lot cleaner when compared to fossil fuels.  Implementing these energy sources on a wider scale could one day completely replace the need and dependence on fossil fuels. Read the rest of this entry

The Durable Goods Report came out last week from the U.S. Census Bureau.  The numbers came out positive and gave the stock market a huge surge before the closing bell on Friday.  It was a sign of life for many investors that have been waiting in the wings to get back into the game.

The Dow surged to close up 200 from the previous close as the stock market closed for the weekend.  To many investors it was the indicator of good things to come.  At the very least, it gave traders and excuse to drive stocks up for a rally.

Here’s the stock market for beginners synopsis on the Durable Goods Report.  It does a survey of 4,000 manufacturers that make durable goods.  Durable goods is generally thought of as more expensive capital goods that last longer than 3 years.  This would be like semiconductors, trucks, manufacturing equipment, machine tools and goods like that. Read the rest of this entry

Let’s face it retirement planning is something that everyone worries about at one time or other in their lifetime.  Smart people start thinking about it earlier in life and continue to focus on it throughout life.

Some people are more concerned than others about preparing now so that their quality of life will be a good once they retire.  If you’re one of the financially responsible individuals who understand the importance of planning for retirement early on, you’re probably open to new suggestions.

All throughout time, some of the wealthiest people have gained their fortunes through buying land at the right time.  The most important thing about buying land is to buy it at the right time.  Just having money and investing it in land isn’t necessarily going to make you rich or ensure that you live out a comfortable retirement.  Buying at the right time  and the right price will however. Read the rest of this entry

Even though the financial crisis of 2008 had been diverted, new crisis keep on coming. The latest one comes from European nations carrying too much debt. Since we live in a global economy, it has far reaching effects. That is why, if you are new to investing and you want a good night’s rest, you need to have a long investment horizon that includes having long term growth stocks in your portfolio.

As a potential investor, it really comes down to your needs. Do you need money now and are you willing to forego the immediate wants of today, for a comfortable existence in the future? If you opt for a brighter future, then you should learn to invest for yourself. It isn’t that you cannot find a financial advisor who will help you find the best long term stocks, but the bottom line is that the buck stops with you. You are the most interested party of your money so you should be aware of all the transactions that occur in your portfolio. Read the rest of this entry