Got $1K to Invest? Think Asset Allocation

If you've got $1,000 you're just itching to invest, I have two words for you: asset allocation.

Instead of immediately earmarking your cash for a specific purpose, it might be best to take a step back first and look at where you've got your money already.

Here's why: depending on your age and your risk tolerance, you might be best served to put that money to use in a certain place -- such as stocks, bonds or cash -- where you don't have as much money as you probably should.

That's where asset allocation comes in, because it's the concept of making sure your money is spread out among different types of investments that balance risk and reward in the way that's right for you. ...