The development of civilization has relied heavily on the discovery of metals. Prehistoric man used metals to build tools and weapons and as our knowledge of metallurgy has developed, metals have played an essential role in the advancement of agriculture, transport and arts & crafts - forging the path to today's modern society. This infographic presents that timeline.

Individuals are long-term investors only as long as the markets are rising. Despite endless warnings, repeated suggestions and outright recommendations - getting investors to sell, take profits and manage...[their] portfolio risks is nearly a lost cause as long as the markets are rising. Unfortunately, by the time the fear, desperation or panic stages are reached it is far too late to act and I will only be able to say that I warned you [- unless you take the time to read, and study the contents of this article]. Words: 1945; Charts: 10; Tables: 1

I can't predict the future, and neither can you. That's why I created the Gone Fishin' Portfolio. It's breathtakingly simple, works like a charm and has beaten the S&P 500 every year, while taking much less risk than being fully invested in stocks.

One of the most difficult challenges of transitioning to retirement from the working world is a complete change in mindset with regards to an investment portfolio. You go from being a saver to a spender. There’s no future income or nearly as much time to soften the blow from bear markets. Growth is still necessary but you have to be cognizant of the fact that you’ll need to protect some of your assets for spending purposes. Here's an interesting case study in how to approach this change in mindset.

Most Americans still have yet to stick a single financial toe across the border, but more and more are considering it and this article outlines 10 ways to internationalize your assets to provide you with some much needed protection as the uncertain future unfolds.

Only 8% of the world's money exists in a physical state and the following infographic illustrates why and how it eventually meets its end.

Investors should take a long hard look at their broker/financial advisor/planner and rethink what they expect of him/her while at the same time empowering themselves to take control of their own situations. This article identifies several warning signs that it may be time to cut ties with your current broker. Words: 721

Most people still think that you need exposure all over the board to get good diversification but that assumption is a fallacy. If you don't choose to believe us, that is your loss - literally!

I humbly submit that the 1920s are reminiscent of our current decade, the 2020s.

Most people seem to think owning a house is a great “investment” but, in actual fact, when you look at the numbers closely, such an acquisition is anything but. Let me explain with supporting evidence.