Mutual funds are popular investment opportunities: They are a way for investors to pool money to invest in specific assets, from stocks and bonds to other investments. Mutual funds allow the average investor opportunity to diversify their investments while accessing global markets.

By LIMRA and LOMA

Setting money aside on a regular basis is not an easy task for most consumers. But the uncertainties brought on by COVID-19 have underscored the need for all of us to renew our efforts on building up our savings, which can serve as an emergency fund for a rainy day. The beginning of the year is as good a time as any to start or enhance your savings program.

The following article by WalletHub highlights the top 10 financial resolutions of Americans for 2021:

According to a survey released by the National Endowment for Financial Education® (NEFE®), nearly nine in 10 Americans say the COVID-19 crisis is causing stress on their personal finances.

You've heard it before, but it's worth repeating: we are living in unprecedented times. This is not normal. Whether you've lost your job during this time, or are feeling lucky that you didn't, the crisis certainly has made everyone take a closer look at their financial security. Would you feel steadier right now if you had a stockpile of money in the bank? Would a weight lifted be off your shoulders if you had no monthly credit card or student loan payments? You might feel like you have to choose between putting money in the bank or paying off debt, but you can have it all! You just have to do it one step at a time. Here's an easy, 3-step process for building an emergency fund while paying off debt.