Investment Instruments

'We don't react to the markets and we aren't emotional,' said Kevin Murphy, who helps run the $1.5B Schroder Income Maximiser Fund.

Whether embarking on new partnerships or entering new markets, it's been a busy year for the retail giant. Here are the highlights.

The combined company will develop a new health care model that is local, easier to use, less expensive and puts consumers at the center of their care.

Historically, the fourth quarter is good for stocks, but not so this year. The S&P 500 Index is down almost 9 percent.

12 states and the District of Columbia all have their own estate taxes, and 6 states levy an inheritance tax, too.

The overall strong economy is boosting the insurance industry, as increasing numbers of employed Americans means more paying into employer-sponsored plans.