The landscape of investment products is broad and extends well beyond stocks, bonds and mutual funds, which are familiar to many investors.

The sections below provide an overview of major investment categories—those that have been around for decades and some that are emerging. Each section provides an introduction to the investment, explains the types of investments you may come across and lays out important risks. Along the way, you’ll learn how these products are bought and sold and find tools and resources to help you become a better informed investor.