Investing isn't a one-size-fits-all proposition; the core principle of investment portfolio construction lies in aligning your financial choices with your unique objectives and time horizon. For example, if you're investing for retirement and have several decades to go, you'd generally prioritize long-term growth. This often means allocating a significant portion of your portfolio to higher-risk, higher-reward assets like stocks, which offer the potential for robust returns over the long...

Alternative investments can range from liquid categories such as futures, options, commodities and hedge funds, to less liquid assets such as property, wine or even fine art. The art market, in particular, has captured growing interest as a viable investment channel. According to a 2023 report by investment bank UBS and Art Basel, the U.S. holds a leading position in the global art market, accounting for 45% of sales by value. Moreover, the U.S. art market has seen one of the most robust...

Seasoned investors often employ myriad strategies to optimize returns. One such tactic is the sector rotation strategy, wherein investors attempt to time their exposures to different sectors based on the anticipated phases of the business cycle. For instance, during an expansion phase, one might lean toward sectors known to thrive during economic growth, such as the technology or consumer discretionary sectors. Conversely, in a contraction or recession phase, there's a tilt toward more...

For many new investors, starting with a sum like $5,000 might seem modest. Some may question the impact such an amount can have in the vast world of investing. However, past performance tells a compelling story about the benefits of time in the market and the magical effect of compound interest. Consider this: A $5,000 investment in the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (ticker: SPY), which tracks the S&P 500, from January 1994 to August 2023 would have yielded an annualized total return of 9.9%. That is,...