Featured mutual funds

Equity funds invest in the stocks of companies—thus purchasing ownership or equity in the company. As an equity owner or shareholder, you are tied to the successes and failures of a company itself. As a result, equity funds can be risky, including the loss of principal, and may offer an opportunity for relatively higher returns.

Fixed income funds invest in government or corporate debt, also known as bonds, and are considered more conservative than most equity funds. Fixed income funds also provide the opportunity for income. An increase in interest rates may cause the price of bonds and bond mutual funds to decline.

International funds invest in the stocks and bonds of companies based outside of the U.S. Some funds focus on foreign investments in developing countries to access emerging growth opportunities, while others focus on regions that are more developed and stable. International investing involves special risks such as currency fluctuation and political instability and may not be suitable for all investors. These risks are often heightened for investments in emerging markets.

Multi-asset funds invest across a combination of stocks and bonds, and other investments like cash or real estate, in a single fund. These funds are more diversified than a portfolio comprised entirely of one asset class. A lifecycle fund, also known as a target date fund, is a “fund of funds,” primarily invested in shares of other mutual funds. The fund’s investment mix shifts from a more aggressive to a more conservative investment approach over time as the fund moves toward and beyond its target date year. The principal value of a target date fund isn’t guaranteed at any time, including at the target date, and will fluctuate with market changes. The target date approximates when investors may plan to start making withdrawals. However, you are not required to withdraw the funds at that target date.

See the list of TIAA-CREF Lifecycle and Lifestyle funds