We’ve spent a lot of talking about “the now.” But now it’s time to talk to about the future. Smart investments are often the key to living comfortably well into your twilight years. Just steer clear of those pesky credit default swaps!
There’s a lot more to investing than tying up major funds in order to one day purchase a home or retire in Aruba. It may not seem like it, but you make investment decisions every day. Buying new shoes—investment decision. Leaving your meager savings in a checking account rather than a high yield savings account
Think ahead – Investing in a 401(k) is something every recent grad should do, but very few head these words of wisdom. A 401(k) allows you to defer (or invest) a portion of you income, pre-tax, to you retirement plan. It's a sweet deal later on down the road.
Do it yourself – If you're employer does not offer a 401(k) plan, set up your own IRA. It's a retirement plan that you invest in yourself, and there are many different plans with a variety of investment options.
Start early – Open a 401(k) or IRA as soon as you start your first job after graduation. If your employer doesn't offer one, contribute to an IRA earlier in the year to take advantage of more months of interest.
Shop around - Some IRA companies may charge fees to maintain your account, or to switch providers. Do some comparison shopping before you choose your account.
Be Comfortable – Don't go into credit card debt trying to save for the future. But if you can, you should at least contribute up the maximum company match. Anything less is literally throwing away free money.
So it’s the first day of work and HR asks whether or not you want to open up a 401(k) retirement account. “Heaven’s to Betsy” you say in your most petulant grandfatherly voice: why the hell do I need a retirement account? Ahh…so you say that now. But what happens when you’re 50 years old and realize that
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