CFA Society Boston's Financial Literacy Initiative
Understanding Personal Finances

How do I proceed with my investments during this turbulent time in the market? Financial Wellness in Uncertain Times. 

COVID 19 and related uncertainty have added to volatility in the stock market. This is a unique and uncertain time for all investors and one that will require all of us to be extra focused and cautious when making financial decisions. Although it’s important to build personal finance and investing skills throughout our lives, it’s during these periods of uncertainty when these skills provide the most value. We all feel anxiety and have many doubts about the future and how things may unfold in the short term. However, if we focus on building appropriate skills and designing a well-thought-out plan to fulfill our financial objectives, we’ll all be in a much better position.

To keep calm and stay confident in your financial plan during turbulent market conditions, investors need to understand how the market has fared through previous periods of extreme volatility and should embrace tried-and-true investment strategies and habits. Learn more.

A saving, spending and investing discipline is necessary for financing short and long-term financial needs and desires, and can help you be better prepared to deal with unexpected events and expenses. To begin building the skills you need now and, in the future, take time to adopt the financial principles. Learn more .

How do I begin to Invest?

When you invest, you are devoting time, resources and effort to achieve a greater goal. Typically, you will put your money in a brokerage or mutual fund account to buy stocks or bonds in some form, with the idea that you will earn an acceptable return in the future. Learn more.

How much should I save for retirement?

“As much as you can” is the standard advice. Many financial planners recommend that you save 10% to 15% of your income for retirement, starting in your 20s. But that’s just a general guideline. A host of factors come into play when determining how much you need to save. Learn more.

How do I talk to my kids about money and saving?

Almost three quarters of teens say their parents are the most important influence on their spending habits, but fewer than half think their parents are telling them enough. The most important thing you can do as a parent? Get the conversation started! Learn More.

How do I cope with my personal debt?

If you are in financial hot water, consider these options: self-help using realistic budgeting and other techniques; debt relief services; or debt consolidation. Learn More.

Do I have the proper estate planning documents?

Consulting with an attorney who specializes in estate planning in your state of residence is recommended as laws and requirements vary from state to state. Understanding probate, the process of transferring property and ownership after someone has died, is a good place to start. Learn More.