Absolute-Return Funds Aren't for All

The Incredible Shrinking Fee

A price war is driving down expenses on exchange-traded funds—and the fight is still in the early rounds. Further cuts are likely not only among popular broad-market ETFs and funds, but also for products in niche areas such as emerging markets and industry sectors.

• Video: Fund Firms Fight to Cut ETF Fees
• Read the full report.

A Helping Hand for Your Portfolio

Securities firms are changing strategies to focus more on a fee-based business of helping clients build sophisticated and diversified portfolios, and then managing those portfolios for the clients.

• Podcast: Before You Sign Up ...

Why Annuity Swaps Often Backfire

Holders of variable annuities who do an exchange could be getting an annuity with higher expenses and more restrictions—and in some cases may be giving up guaranteed payments that built up in the bear market.

Uncertain Future for Tiny ETFs

Companies behind ETFs are pursuing narrower niches to attract customers in an increasingly crowded industry. But they often don't make enough money to break even—and some can't afford to keep eating the losses.

Bruised Quant Funds Seek a Human Touch

Computer-driven mutual funds, chastened by poor results and a wave of redemptions, are striving to become a little more like people in their investment decisions.

• Read the September report.