Investment planning is the process of matching your financial goals and objectives with your financial resources. Investment planning is a core component of financial planning. Investment planning is a process that begins when you are clear on your financial goals and objectives.
Retirement planning is the process of determining retirement income goals, and the actions and decisions necessary to achieve those goals. Retirement planning includes identifying sources of income, sizing up expenses, implementing a savings program, and managing assets and risk.
Estate planning in simple terms refers to the passing assets / investments down from one generation to another. You decide how much of your estate – be it property(s), car(s), personal accolades, financial investments, etc. – you want to pass on to whom and how, after your demise.
Tax planning is the analysis of a financial situation or plan to ensure that all elements work together to allow you to pay the lowest taxes possible. A plan that minimizes how much you pay in taxes is referred to as tax efficient. Tax planning should be an essential part of an individual investor's financial plan.