These
days, you can't retire without using the returns from investments.
You can't count on your social security checks to cover your expenses
when you retire. It is important to have your own financial plan.
There are many kinds of investments you can make that will make
your life much easier down the road.
The following are brief descriptions for beginning investors to
familiarize themselves with different kinds of investment options:
401K
Plans
The easiest and most popular kind of investment is a 401K
plan. This is due to the fact that most jobs offer this
savings program where the money can be automatically deducted
from your payroll check and you never realize it is missing.
Life Insurance
Life Insurance policies are another kind of investment
that is fairly popular. It is a way to ensure income
for your family when you die. It allows you a sense
of security and provides a valuable tax deduction.
Stocks
Stocks are a unique kind of investment because they
allow you to take partial ownership in a company. Because
of this, the returns are potentially bigger and they
have a history of being a wise way to invest your money.
Bonds
A bond is basically a promise note from the government
or a private company. You agree to give them a set amount
of money as a loan and they keep it for a set number of
years with a predetermined amount of interest. This is
typically a safe bet and one that is a good investment
for a first time investor because there is little risk
of losing your money.
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are a kind of investment that are based on
the gains and losses of a shareholder. Basically one person
manages the money of several or many investors and invests
in a list of various stocks to lessen the effect of any
losses that may occur.
Money Market Funds
A good short-term investment is a Money Market Fund. With
this kind of investment you can earn interest as an independent
shareholder.
Annuities
If you are interested in tax-deferred income, then annuities
may be the right kind of investment for you. This is
an agreement between you and the insurer. It works to
produce income for you and protect your earning potential.
Brokered Certificates of Deposit (CDs)
CDs are a kind of investment where you deposit money
for a set amount of time. The good thing about CDs is
that you can take the money out at any time without
paying a penalty fee. We all know life isn't predictable,
so this is a nice feature to have in your option.
Real Estate
Real estate is a tangible kind of investment. It includes
your land and anything permanently attached to your
piece of property. This may include your home, rental
properties, your company or empty pieces of land. Real
estate is typically a smart and can make you a lot of
money over time