Investment insights

Lawmakers are likely to pass as early as next year some measures aimed at changing the rules governing Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid; Plus, five steps for a comfortable retirement.

Simplicity is often the goal for clients. But how simple should they get, and how can it be maintained in a fast-changing world?

Plan ahead for the government's cut of your client's dividend income. Plus, how a mutual fund sale impacts a client's taxes, and assessing tax treatments for options trading.

Concerns about China and turmoil in Greece, along with growing speculation about the Federal Reserve were leading factors in the decline in investor confidence, according to a Spectrem Group report.

Financial planners are looking for better valuations in developed economies overseas.

One year after qualified longevity annuity contracts were included as an investment within traditional IRAs and participating employer qualified plans, more people begin to appreciate the product's simplistic design and unique value propositions; Plus, three retirement loopholes that are likely to close.

Six years into a bull market, could a value tilt confer an advantage? Here's what the numbers say now.

These products may offer better exposure and liquidity for your clients investing in the bond markets.

Whether a true believer or agnostic, your clients' politics could be worth a fortune.

Why it's smart for retirees to bulk up on stocks; Plus, how to help your clients avoid losing out on Medicare if they’re still working at 65.

Muni experts expect outperformance by high credit-quality issues, a decline in refundings, troubled credits to dominate the headlines, and the Fed to raise rates in the second half of the year.

Because of convoluted laws and treaties, many clients are leaving money on the table.

Analysis: Fortunately, three industry giants appear more concerned about earning market returns and avoiding foolish behavior than introducing new "hot" products.

A sharp decline in the rate of home ownership, coupled with rising rents, is taking a toll on retirement security; Plus, why people don't buy long-term care insurance.

Advisors can take these steps to evaluate funds to ensure they are operating at the highest standard.

Prevent clients from paying more on capital gains for some ETFs. Plus, why clients should know and care about passive foreign investment companies, and planning for the transfer of a business.

Analysis: Far too much professional courtesy from panelists at Morningstar helped perpetuate the fog around a subject that has crystal clear visibility.

Investors are flocking to passive funds, but that doesn't mean advisors should ignore the active strategy--both are still relevant for clients.

Multi-alternatives are a relatively new fund category that can replicate a large variety of strategies without requiring the costly minimums and fees that usually come with alternatives.

Tips for investors on securing their IRA and 401(k) accounts; Plus, how saying 'no' can help ensure a smooth retirement.