Being one’s own financial advisor has historically been unapproachable for those who don’t have a strong financial knowledge base. Many do not trust themselves to take risks with their livelihoods in the stock market or merely don’t have the time to do the needed research to make sound investment decisions. Thus, some are drawn to…

Historically, stocks have provided appreciation that helped investor portfolios grow. Many stocks also provide returns in the form of dividends. Stock prices have certainly gone up over time, but the path hasn’t exactly been a straight line. There have been some queasy, white-knuckle moments along the way when it felt downright uncomfortable to own stocks.…