Know Your Investments

Understanding your investments

Once you have set your personal financial goals and selected a financial adviser your next step is to decide what to invest in. The same investments do not work for everyone.  Read Investments at a glance (PDF) for a description of different kinds of investments, the risks, types of returns, costs and other things you should know before buying.  Understanding Mutual Funds (PDF) can help you decide if mutual funds are right for you.

Make sure you understand how the investment works, including any fees, and whether it fits with your goals and risk tolerance. Here are a few questions you should ask your adviser: 

• Why are you recommending this investment instead of others?
• How does this investment fit into my overall investment goals or financial plan?
• What are the risks and expected return of this investment?
• Will you get a commission if you sell me this investment? If so, how much?
• Are there any other costs or fees associated with buying this investment?