As just about any financial planner will tell you, it is smart that you don't delay when it comes to the 2010 Roth conversion, which is actually right around the corner. People should be prepared, and they should also know that they do not have to wait until 2010 itself to actually go ahead and convert a Roth over if they have an AGI of less than $100, 000.When it comes to the 2010 Roth IRA conversion, the first thing people should understand is that it is normally for those who have an adjusted gross income exceeding $100, 000. This is no matter whether filing singly or jointly, as a married couple. For those with high incomes, this is probably a great time to convert any monies into a Roth. The 2010 one-time for AGIs less than 100, 000 will soon go away.

As we have covered before, we are about to come into a solid rally. Many people have lost lots of cash in the slump in all sorts of investments and are wondering what they should do from here. If you have not already unloaded those bottomed out stocks, hold on to them. If your retirement money is in any stock linked format, do not even touch it. Stay put and travel the tide back up. Fundamentally, yes, this is a form of timing the market, but sometimes you just have to. You rode the Dow down from 12000 points to 6500 points. Why not ride it back up with the constant stocks. Most of the stocks you hold, if the company has not gone bankrupt, will go back to their original status.

Successful investing is rooted in investment principles that have been proven over time in a wide range of economic and market environments. Here are just a few examples of investment basics that should not be ignored.Failing to Define Objectives
The first step in developing a successful investment program is to clearly articulate specific goals. Is the purpose of this investment to build wealth over time, preserve capital and generate current income, fund an education program or reduce tax obligations? Do you need to manage financial risks through an insurance program that combines protection with investment flexibility or do you need to plan for retirement? Defining your goal will provide the focus that will help you determine the appropriate time horizon, risk parameters and investment allocation.