This entry becomes increasingly relevant at a time when corporations continue to shift from defined-benefit retirement plans (pensions) to defined-contribution plans (401k). Corporations are encouraging their employees to self-direct their retirement assets to protect themselves from the possibility of retirement plans becoming under-funded.

Numerous abuses within the securities industry have created a greater need for oversight. The Great Depression of 1929 happened in part because equity in companies was being sold without proper disclosure of the potential risks.

Maintaining a high credit score will mean more for some people than others. If you lead a financially simple life- have one home, perhaps a child or two, earn money- but aren’t in debt or particularly rich, your credit score probably should not be the first thing on your mind.

In the world of financial planning, a variety of factors may affect the advice one receives from an advisor. I’ll tell you an obvious one: a company which sells their own products. Without volunteering names, you probably will if you haven’t already, bumped into this kind of business.

The cost of college funding has taken center stage for financial planners in recent years. The reason for this is the dramatic increase in cost, averaging 8% annually for the past 30 years. The average cost for a private college education, including tuition, housing, books, and spending money is approximately $157,000 for a 4-year private university.

If you’re looking to do your kids a huge favor, consider the cost of college when they are quite young. As many are aware, the burden of college costs has increased dramatically in the past 10 years and is showing no signs of decreasing anytime soon. T