Fear of market volatility can make seemingly safe investments appear alluring. The downside of playing it “safe,” however, is that you may actually be losing purchasing power by putting your money in investments that don’t keep pace with inflation.

For example, when the Ford Mustang launched in 1964, the cost of a '64 standard coupe was $2,368. Back then, $100,000 invested in a 6-month CD would have provided you with $4,300 in income—almost enough to buy two Ford Mustangs!

Unfortunately, the income on the same $100,000 CD today would only provide you with enough income to pay for a racing stripe and two gas tank refills for your cherished Ford Mustang. The speed of a Mustang is apparently no match for the speed of inflation!

The Effects of Inflation: $100,000 6-Month CD Investment

CDs are insured by the FDIC, offer a fixed rate of return, and are generally designed for short-term savings needs. The principal value and investment return of investment securities (including mutual funds) are subject to risk, will fluctuate with changes in market conditions, are generally considered long-term investments, and are not suitable for all investors.