It is a shame that financial planning was not available as a course in high school (at least the high school I attended). We learned the basic skills of reading, writing, and arithmetic, as well as such far-reaching topics as home economics, drama, and auto shop. We were given information on how to go out and get a job and make money; however, most of us were never taught what to do once we actua...

In today's market, here's an excellent quote, from a very well-respected individual to keep in mind: "Economy and finance, as instruments, can be used badly when those at the helm are motivated by purely selfish ends. Instruments that are good in themselves can thereby be transformed into harmful ones. But it is man's darkened reason that produces these consequences, not the instrument per s...

When a married couple plans to retire on different dates, they may need more than a calendar to manage the situation. They can spend decades investing for their retirement, but when it comes time for them to decide on a date, will there be one red circle on the calendar or two? Whether due to age discrepancy, or the fact that one spouse won't leave a thriving career, couples often have to nego...