Curious about investing? Here's what to know

This episode of NPR's Life Kit, titled "Investing 101," features host Marielle Segarra interviewing financial journalist Mary Childs about the basics of investing. They discuss company-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s and 403(b)s, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and Roth accounts, highlighting the tax benefits of each. The conversation covers investment fund types, including index funds, actively managed funds, mutual funds, and ETFs, with an emphasis on diversification through bonds. Childs recommends index funds for individual investors and advises against selling during market downturns. The episode also touches on ethical investing, brokerage accounts for shorter-term investments, and the importance of aligning investment strategies with one's time horizon and risk tolerance.