Investment insights

The search for low-touch mutual funds has shifted "disproportionate" client money into fixed income, an analyst says.

The high cost of stock picking has made clients more passive, an analyst says.

Advisers say clients have become much more hesitant about making new investments.

Experts and advisers weigh in on what to expect and how to discuss the future.

Officials might wait to get a sense of the fallout before making a decision on rate increases.

"This has caught a lot of people off guard. We're all very surprised," said Karl Goody, a private wealth manager at Shaw and Partners.

Here's what to watch for just before the counting of ballots begins.

Investments in certain closed-end funds or preferred shares are strategies clients should consider to make their savings last, an industry expert says.

Fifteen of the 20 biggest open-end funds report net outflows over the last five years.

Those with the option of taking loans from their plans should consider tax implications and the possibility of missing out on the growth of the money that was borrowed.

Clients may be less anxious if they know their portfolios include funds built for stability.

Advisers and clients stockpile cash while waiting for better buying opportunities.

Retirement investors who need to decide whether to sell depreciated stocks or ride out a declining market should make a decision based on their investing goals, says strategist.

The Fed's latest meeting showed officials favored a gradual approach to raising interest rates, though several anticipated a hike "relatively soon."

The funds have had the fastest growth since 2012, with nearly $100 billion of inflows, helped by record emerging-market investments.

If equities languish, one adviser says be more cautious on muni fixed income.

Punished by the plunge in the energy sector, some advisers await a rebound that can take advantage of master limited partnerships’ tax status.

Market valuations are generally high this year partly due to a lack of rate increases, but fourth-quarter positioning can still present opportunities.

Buffalo, N.Y., is one of five cities where retirees who rely solely on Social Security for income can live comfortably.