Investment insights

This type of insurance will not cover a policy holder's expenses for the first 180 days of care, a major concern for those without substantial savings; Plus, how to make the most from a Roth IRA.

The more portfolio managers invest in their own funds the better, according to a recent Morningstar study.

The world's largest bond fund has cut back on U.S. securities as yields are expected to rise this year.

Clients who want bigger investment returns can supplement their target-date funds by directing 40% of their assets to small-cap value stocks; Plus, why investors will need less money for retirement than they think.

Nine smart things to do with a client's refund;Plus, reorganizing a client's portfolio to reduce fees, taxes.

One third of pre-retirees are likely to retire poor or near poor as a result of a significant decrease in employer-sponsored retirement savings plans; Plus, the single most obnoxious retirement fund fee.

No matter how strong their operating earnings, companies can't pay dividends without this.

Some advisors are hesitant to recommend a conversion for high-net-worth clients since President Obama supports changes to key features of Roth IRAs; Plus, can Social Security benefits increase after age 66?

Lipper granted its awards to the best mutual funds and best overall fund families this week. Here are performance stats on the winning funds of the winning companies.

Despite fears of rising interest rates, long-term Treasury bonds are worth considering.

A client who earns a higher income than her spouse is advised to file for benefits before reaching full retirement age so her husband can begin getting a spousal benefit.

Our latest tracking data shows that advisors are allocating more to global equities due to changes in the European Central Banks's monetary policy and more favorable valuations compared to equities at home.

Clients should use the first-in, first-out strategy when selling stocks or funds in their portfolio to avoid hefty penalties; Plus, why middle class households are saving more than the rich.

As an advisor, you're not necessarily obligated to vote proxies for client portfolios. But you must make sure your policy is articulated clearly. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Scott Powers retires as head of State Street Global Advisors in Boston.

Floating rate funds offer solid income, but can be extremely volatile.

For clients willing to wait for the start date, deferred income annuities can offer plump payouts.

Transferring an IRA asset to a trust is a strategy that provides the beneficiaries protection from creditors and divorce; Plus, what the proposed Medicare 'doc fix' means for seniors.

Knowing the cost of a retirement community is key to making a smart decision, with independent living communities costing $2,520 per year; Plus, the price tag of a bipartisan bill averting Medicare doc fee cuts.

Consider a client's long-term investment goals before tax-loss harvesting; Plus, how clients plan to invest their tax returns, and ways to finance a son's or daughter's college bills through investments and tax breaks.