Whether you are just starting out or planning your retirement, this easy-to-read book offers practical advice on how to prepare for the future. By following the suggestions in this book you'll learn how to set priorities, increase your investment return, and achieve your financial goals, with a minimum of risk. A partial listing of subjects covered in this book: Understanding risk Investment planning Government securities Bank instruments Annuities Life insurance Gold and silver investments Real estate Corporate bonds Municipal bonds Zero-coupon bonds Bond mutual funds Common stocks Money market mutual funds Stock mutual funds Basics of mutual funds Selecting a mutual fund Building your portfolio Managing your portfolio Stock dividends Dividend reinvestment pians Working with a broker Investing for college Investing for retirement Estate planning and much more