Matt Bell

Staff Writer

Matt Bell is the Associate Editor at Sound Mind Investing, a popular investment newsletter that provides proven strategies for successful investing.

Matt Bell's bio

Latest articles by Matt Bell

5 Dumb Investments Smart People Make

Investing early and often is smart money management — usually. Avoid these common mistakes and you'll keep your portfolio safe and growing.

You May Be Putting Your Retirement Money in the Wrong Place

ETFs? Index funds? Stocks? Where should you put your retirement money? It depends on your situation and goals. Here's how to decide.

$4,000, $8,000, or Even $453,500 in 5 Years: A Low-Risk Investment Plan

If you're saving for a new car or a down payment on a house, you can boost your return in the short-term with little risk.

3 Ways to Get a Legit Business Education Online

The advent of online education has made it easy to get a business education. And if you don't need a credential or degree — it can be free.

6 Tax Moves You Need to Make Right Now

Think about taxes? Now? Absolutely! The tax moves you make today can pay off big next year — and long after.

Investing Advice by the Decade: Ages 11-20

Tweens and teens race into biological adulthood all on their own, but they won't advance to financial adulthood without some parental guidance. Here's what to teach.

Investment Allocation by Age: Birth to 10 Years Old

When kids are young, investing is usually done on their behalf. However, it's possible to get kids started with their own investments at a surprisingly early age.

3 Ways to Stay Calm When the Stock Market Gets Volatile

Investing under the influence of fear never works out well. Here are three great ways to deal with a market downturn.

2 Investing Concepts Everyone Should Know

Successful investors know how to get the most from compound interest and make sure they have the right asset allocation. Here's why these two investing concepts are so important.

Money Management in 5 Minutes a Day

Day-to-day money management doesn't need to take a ton of time. Here are some key steps and tools that'll help you create a super-efficient system.

The Types of Savings Accounts: Which Is Right For You?

Everyone needs an emergency fund, but with interest rates on savings accounts so low, where should you keep this money? Here are your options.

Investing 101: 5 Essential Steps

Investing can be one of the most intimidating parts of personal finance. But if you follow these five steps, you'll be on your way to smart, sound investing.

Slow and Steady Wins the Debt Race

When you're in deep debt, bankruptcy can look appealing. However, the long way out of debt is usually the best way to get — and stay — out of debt.

How to Start Fighting Debt — Today

No matter how big it is, you CAN pay down your debt. Start today — right now! — with this simple action plan.

How to Stick to an Exercise Plan

If you've set a goal to lose weight or get healthy through exercise, great! Make sure you achieve your goal by following these suggestions.

How to Get Rid of and Avoid Late Fees

Of all the ways you can waste money, paying late fees is one of the worst. Learn how to never pay another late fee again.

Investing With Your Values

Sure, you recycle. But are you investing in companies that trash the planet? Here's how to find out whether your investments line up with your ideals.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Debt Snowball Method

If you're trying to pay off a stack of debts, the snowball method can give you the motivation you need to knock them all out. Learn how.

How to Avoid Holiday Debt, Starting Now

Holiday shopping can send your budget to the financial emergency room. Plan your shopping now, and enjoy your holiday season free of stress.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Envelope System

Whether you're intimidated by budgeting or are just looking for a new technique, the simple and effective envelope system can make budgeting oh-so-easy.