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Investing Basics

Guiding Principles

Get on the path to saving and investing with these simple guidelines.

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See also: Risk Tolerance, Asset Allocation, Understanding Fees

Knowing how to secure your financial well-being is one of the most important things you’ll ever need in life. You don’t have to be a genius to do it. You just need to know a few basics, form a plan, and be ready to stick to it. There is no guarantee that you’ll make money from investments you make. But if you get the facts about saving and investing and follow through with an intelligent plan, you should be able to gain financial security over the years and enjoy the benefits of managing your money.

More about investing

What kinds of investment products are there?

 

Lots! Learn more about the investment products listed below, including their benefits, risks, and fees.

How can I avoid investment fraud?

 

Part of our job at the SEC is to protect ordinary investors like you from fraud. Here's what we want all investors to know to avoid getting scammed.

 

Where can I go for help?

 

If you have a question or concern about an investment, or you think you have encountered fraud, contact the organizations below or your state securities regulator.