Exchange traded funds that focus on alternative energy have proliferated and many of them have been mirroring the sharp swings in the oil markets.

Geoffrey Bobroff, a mutual fund industry consultant, discusses what the changes on Wall Street might mean for mutual funds.

The new federal program aimed at restoring confidence in the nation’s money market funds was joined by four of the nation’s best-known mutual fund companies.

If you do a little homework, you will notice that some of these smart money ideas haven’t panned out. At least not yet.

Some of the nation’s largest mutual fund companies have requested protection from the U.S. government, but the money is still flowing out of the funds, threatening short-term credit.

The $700 billion bailout is uncharted territory not just for Washington lawmakers, but also for lobbyists.

Short-term gainers are clear, judging by the market reaction, but it will take time to determine who the survivors are.

Consider a few modest but concrete things you can do that could reduce your exposure to four of the big areas of risk: investments, job security, your mortgage and insurance.

The rescue package presents new questions for money market funds and their customers. They may soon be facing higher costs, tighter investment restrictions and more complicated regulations.

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr. said the upfront cost of a rescue proposal could easily be $500 billion, and outside experts predicted that the bill could reach $1 trillion.