While it's true that hitting the lottery is a rare source of new-found wealth, it’s generally easier to strike it rich at home: 20% of all households receive some kind of inheritance. While the newly rich can enjoy the sudden windfall, it often comes a new set of problems.

Slowing economic growth, high unemployment, rising gas and food prices -- are we seeing a return to 1970s-style "stagflation"? If so, the next few years could be bumpy. Here what investors can do to protect themselves.

Have you ever been on a receiving end of a blatantly flattering comment from a sales associate or a financial advisor? There's a reason for that: It works. Researchers found that people respond positively to flattery, even when they know the flatterer has an ulterior motive.