Just Start Investing

We Make Investing Easy

Investing Blog

Traditional vs Roth 401(k): What You Need to Know

By

With access to a Roth 401(k) becoming more and more common, I wanted to break down the differences between a Traditional vs Roth 401(k). Including the advantages of each and how to decide which 401(k) plan to choose.

I’m currently considering a Roth 401(k) myself and was surprised by how much nuance there is in making the decision between the common two 401(k) options.

Yes, a lot of things are the same (such as contribution limits). Though, there are some major differences (like when your money is taxed) and minor ones as well (for example, the withdrawal rules).

We’ll get into all of that below to help you easily make an informed decision on which 401(k) type is right for you.

[Read more…] about Traditional vs Roth 401(k): What You Need to Know

What Are Alternative Investments?

By

We hear a lot these days about alternative investments. Wall Street firms regularly tout their expertise in these investments and try to convince us we need them in our portfolio.

In the beginning, alternative investments were only available to what most would consider the wealthy.

The SEC set the definition of the wealthy with their accredited investor definition. To be eligible to invest in these alternative investments, one has to have an income of at least $200,000 (individual) or $300,000 (joint) for the last two years. Additionally, the rule states the investor expects that income to continue going forward.

If they don’t meet the income requirement, accredited investors must have a net worth of at least $1,000,000 (exclusive of personal residence). Though that group is growing, it leaves out millions of people who could benefit from the diversification offered by this asset class.

One thing common in the early days of these investments was high fees. In the beginning, managers charged investors 2% of the amount invested plus 20% of profits. Here’s what that means.

This is a sponsored post written in partnership with The Money Mix.

[Read more…] about What Are Alternative Investments?

Alternatives to the Stock Market: Where Else to Invest Your Money

By

As you start to save and increase your income, one of the most important steps you can take is investing your money. Many people struggle to know what to invest in besides the stock market and what alternatives exist. Granted, the choices are vast and can be quite confusing.

However, if you want to ensure a healthy financial future, ensure your family’s finances are secure and live comfortably in your golden years — investing is an absolute must!

And although there is always some risk with any investing you potentially do, you are risking more by letting your money just sit idly by.

I say this because, you could be missing 20-30+ years of compound interest, which can add up to thousands — if not six-figures of missed investment income.

Below, we will explore investing in the stock market as well as the investment options you have beyond that.

[Read more…] about Alternatives to the Stock Market: Where Else to Invest Your Money

The Strategy for Investing in a Recession

By

No one knows if the stock market is going to go up or down tomorrow, next week, or next year. If anyone tries to tell you that they do, they’re either lying or they’re lying.

The truth is, the S&P 500 could go skyrocket or crash at any minute, and while that might sound scary, it doesn’t have to be if you have the right strategy in place. Most importantly, the right strategy for investing when a recession hits.

Investing in a recession is not that different from investing during any other time period, especially if you’re a long-term investor that is not retiring any time soon.

Though, recession or bull market, the first step every prepared investor needs to take is to cover the basics.

[Read more…] about The Strategy for Investing in a Recession

Best Online Brokers 2020: Ranking The Top Choices

By

When it comes to investing, choosing where to invest is often the first and most crucial choice you make (which is why we created this guide to finding the best online brokers from 2020!).

Choose correctly, and you’ll be in a great spot to pick from a wide variety of low-cost funds and make trades for free. Choose poorly, and your investment options will be limited, and your fees will be high.

Online brokers come in all shapes and sizes, but the three things I looked for in a broker in 2020 were:

  1. Low fees
  2. Wide variety of low-cost index funds and ETFs (for you non-stock traders out there)
  3. Ease of use

Below we’ll break down some of the best brokers out there and score them on the three criteria above. This way, you can make a smart personal finance decision and choose the best online broker for you.

First, here’s a quick primer on what makes an online broker (you experts can skip ahead).

[Read more…] about Best Online Brokers 2020: Ranking The Top Choices

The Latest Blog Posts:

As Featured In:

Just Start Investing Press Strip 2020 B&W

Follow Us: