Why do so many investors attempt to beat the market each year when research clearly shows their odds of success are extremely low?

Real estate prices can move sharply in both directions, providing an opportunity for savvy investors. Capitalizing on those opportunities, however, is difficult. For most, a house should be thought of primarily as a roof over your head and a great place to raise the kids.

In early February, investors withdrew record amounts from U.S. stock mutual funds, as fears spread over declining global growth, stubborn unemployment, and political and economic troubles in emerging markets. Such turbulence highlights the role safe bonds can play in a portfolio.

Studies show the lion’s share of a portfolio’s performance is due to its asset allocation. Accordingly, many investors keep a watchful eye on their mix of stocks, bonds, real estate and cash. But few investors pay much attention to asset location. Doing so, however, can help reduce their tax bill

Concerns over slowing economic growth abroad have some investors re-considering their allocation to emerging market stocks. These warnings strike us as mildly amusing, as it was just a few short years ago investors couldn’t get enough emerging market exposure precisely because of their high rates of economic growth. What gives?

Once again, data from USA TODAY and online portfolio tracker SigFig shows active traders dramatically underperform those with a buy-and-hold approach.