Investment | Baird's La Crosse Office

Investing should be easy – just buy low and sell high – but most of us have trouble following that simple advice. There are principles and strategies that may enable you to put together an investment portfolio that reflects your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. Understanding these principles and strategies can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that snare some investors.

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.

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The Fed and How It Got That Way

Here is a quick history of the Federal Reserve and an overview of what it does.

In the Markets Now: Selloff Summary for April 21, 2025

Stocks dropped precipitously on concerns for the future of Fed independence and trade war persistence.

What Can a Million Dollars Buy You?

$1 million in a diversified portfolio could help finance part of your retirement.

In the Markets Now: Scattered Thoughts on Gold

Gold is up 110% over two years — why, and why now?

Five for Friday – March 20, 2026

Ross looks at consumer tailwinds and headwinds and reminds us of the importance of realistic expectations in investing.

A Deeper Look at the National Debt

Strategas Chief Economist Don Rissmiller discusses in-depth the issues he’s watching on the budget deficit and national debt.

Bull & Baird: What Moves the U.S. Stock Market?

Why did the market begin 2026 with new highs even after headlining-grabbing recent events in Venezuela?

Reg BI - A Win for All Involved

Reg BI increases investor protection while preserving the right to choose who to work with and which services to use.

2026 Market and Policy Outlook

See what’s ahead for markets and policy in 2026 – and how it could impact you.

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Monthly Budget

Track your monthly income and expenses to get a clearer view of your cash flow.

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your debt-to-income ratio to understand how lenders may view your financial health.

What Is My Net Worth?

Get a snapshot of your overall financial picture by calculating your total net worth.

College Savings

See how much you may need to save now to cover future college costs for your child.

Student Loan Payoff Calculator: Extra Payments Can Save You

See how extra payments toward your student loans could shorten your payoff timeline.

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Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

Global and International Funds

Investors seeking world investments can choose between global and international funds. What's the difference?

From Boats to Brokers

From the Dutch East India Company to Wall St., the stock market has a long and storied history.

The Business Cycle

How will you weather the ups and downs of the business cycle?

It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times

All about how missing the best market days (or the worst!) might affect your portfolio.

Are Alternative Investments Right for You?

With alternative investments, it’s critical to sort through the complexity.