With a career in the financial services industry spanning over 20 years, I have experienced and learned from the evolving financial markets changes and economic cycles to understand that wealth can be created for long term investors. As an investor you can control risk exposure, but not the underlining risk of a security and the different dynamics that affect the financial markets. The financial markets are here to stay, they are the foundation of our global economy.  The easiest way to make money is to have your "money making money", to potentially accumulate wealth. If you only had to decide whether to invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds or a combination thereof, it would be simpler.  Unfortunately, the investment landscape may be more complicated to navigate.  There are numerous investment models, and a diverse array of investment products available from which to choose.  Many investors are still tempted to venture out on their own, but as you try to map out a financial or investment plan, you may find yourself stuck in park, overwhelmed by all the possiblities.  I encourage you to review your financial goals and risk tolerance for investing, and commit to being a long-term investor. In my experience, long-term investing and financial planning is key to accumulating wealth.