1. Explore a number of different classifications of mutual funds.
   1. Based on your age and current financial situation, which type of mutual fund seems appropriate for your investment needs? Explain your answer.
   2. As people getcloser to retirement, their investment goals often change. Assume you are now 45 and have accumulated $110,000 in a retirement account. In this situation, what type of mutual funds would you choose? Why?
   3. Assume you are now 60 years of age and have accumulated $400,000 in a retirement account. Also assume you would like to retire when you are 65. What type of mutual funds would you choose to help you reach your investment goals? Why?
2. You are considering two different corporate bonds. One is rated AAA by Standard and Poor's and pays 5.8 percent annual interest. the other bond is rated B by Standard and Poor's and pays 7.5 percent annual interest. What do these ratings mean? Which bond would you choose and why?
3. Assumeyou have $5,000 to invest and that you are trying to decide between investing in Coca-Cola or Proctor & Gamble. Describe how the Internet could help you decide which investment isthe right one for you. What other sources of information could help you evaluate these companies?
4. Explain the relationship betweenearnings per share, projected earnings, and the market value for a stock.