April 2012 was a mixed month for stocks.    The Dow Jones Industrial Average was barely positive with a gain of 0.01 and the S&P 500 fell slightly with a 0.8% decline.  Which index best represents what we refer to as "the market?"  What might investors expect for the remainder of 2012?  Read More...

Marget segments that have higher relative market risk, such as foreign stock and small-cap stock, performed best in the first quarter of 2012.  Now that the second quarter is well under way, it is clear that these same segments are acting just as we may expect Read More...

If you think your total stock market index fund is a diversified holding, think again.  Recent market volatility is a stark reminder that you need to confirm that your portfolio structure is strong enough to weather the potential storm with Read More...

Markets have become more volatile over the past few weeks, which suggests uncertainty and anxiety among investors, collectively and affectionately referred to as "the crowd."  But should you, the individual investor, follow the crowd? Read More...