The Basics of Investing in Mutual Funds

Learn how funds work and how to use them to set up a well balanced portfolio that's right for you.

Funds offer plenty of benefits to busy investors. Here's everything you need to know to make them work for you.

Why Mutual Funds?

For investors without much experience or time to devote to building a portfolio, mutual funds offer advantages that simply aren't available anywhere else.

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Sales Loads and Other Charges

Learn about the expenses funds charge and which ones you can avoid.

Focus on Categories

A fund's performance depends on what it buys. Each category carries its own level of risk ... and reward.

Build a Solid Portfolio

A balanced collection of funds will serve you better than a collection of the latest high fliers.

Diversify Your Portfolio

You'll get stability and the probability that at least one of your funds will be up no matter what the market's doing.

Start Your Search

From first choice to final check, here's how to find the best funds for you.

Tips for the New Fund Owner

What paperwork to keep, how to track your investments and when to say "sell."

Hang onto Your Profits

Keeping careful records, and understanding cost-basis rules will prevent you from overpaying your taxes.

Time to Ditch Your Fund?

Learn to tell the difference between a fund that's hit a speedbump and one that's dropped out of the race completely.