Most investors know that they should evaluate their risk tolerance when considering an investment. Oftentimes, investors think of risk only in terms of possibly losing money. However, in the investment world, risk is broadly defined as the probability that the actual return from an investment will be different from its expected return.

If you’re changing jobs, leaving your job, or retiring and you have a qualified retirement plan, you’re facing important decisions about your future financial security.

In times like these, I want to encourage you to expect the unexpected and try not to let emotion derail your long-term investment plans. One of the most common temptations is to lose patience and sell as prices continue to drop.

A powerful and sometimes overlooked vehicle for retirement savings is the IRA.

You’re preparing for retirement, but are you confident you’ll have enough? In an October 2008 poll taken by AARP, it was noted that nearly 30% of pre-retirees felt that their retirement savings were not on track even before the recent economic slowdown.

The Baby Boom generation is about to trail blaze into another new era: retirement. Never a generation to accept the status quo, they are ready and set to redefine the outmoded image of “golden years.”

Somewhere along the road to retirement, it is a good idea to consult your “map.” Will your ride be smooth or filled with potholes? How far off is retirement day, and do you have sufficient financial resources to last the journey? Regardless of your current location along this road, it’s important to recognize that the financial “bags” you’ve packed may only take you so far.

A 529 College Savings Plan may be an attractive vehicle for those looking to save for a child’s education.*