Returns are calculated using the S&P 500's performance. These figures are based on Quandl's historical stock data, which tracks the S&P 500 as far back as 1950. Visit the Stockchoker blog for more details.

Green bubbles signify years when the S&P 500 gained value; red is used for years when the S&P 500 declined.

For investing advice, Stockchoker recommends the Stock Series on jlcollinsnh.com.

Please email us with any questions, comments or suggestions.

Copyright 2015 Todd Froemling