The process of determining the current worth of an asset or company.

A group of securities that exhibit similar characteristics, and behave similarly, in the marketplace.

An independent examination, and evaluation, of the financial statements of an individual or organization. 

A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.

A security in which an investor loans money to an entity, for a defined period of time, at a fixed interest rate.

An increase in the value of a capital asset (investment or real estate) that gives it a higher worth than the purchase price.

A strategy to ensure a portfolio is producing a return that is at least equal to inflation.

Basic goods, such as grains, gold, beef, oil and natural gas, used in commerce that are interchangeable with other commodities of the same type.

To be in accordance with a law, ruling or other generally-accepted practice.

A measure associated with the cost of living that examines the weighted average of prices of a group of consumer goods and services, such as transportation, food and medical care.