The way you divide your portfolio between stocks and bonds has a bigger impact on your eventual returns than any other single decision. Has the difficult first half of 2008 driven you out of stocks? Or are you persevering, trusting the traditional superiority of stocks will once again reassert itself? In this article, we look at historical patterns and how they can be used to guide your portfolio allocations as you plan for retirement.

One of the most important attributes for an investor to develop is the ability to think long-term. When the market corrects, as it has recently, are you ready to take advantage? Or are you part of the fearful herd asking each other all the wrong questions?

The second quarter was tough for both stock and bond investors, as the markets retested their lows for the year. But there were a few bright spots where investors could find refuge. We detail the performance of our SMI model portfolios, and demonstrate once again how Upgrading was able to add value in reader portfolios.

Relentlessly rising oil prices. Inflationary pressures building. Slow economic growth. And a stock market stuck in neutral. To veteran investors, it's starting to feel like the 1970s again. What should you do if the market repeats its 1966-1982 experience and stays stuck in the same range for several more years? Two simple questions can reveal the answer.

In an unusual twist of events, current yields on money market accounts look very attractive compared with the money market funds SMI typically recommends. So should you switch? Here are three reasons to look closely before you leap.

How does your credit situation look through a banker's eyes? A simple calculation can tell you.

Reverse mortgages are a useful tool in unlocking the equity stored in a home, but it's important to understand what you're signing up for. Here are answers to 7 key questions concerning these backwards loans.