Lessons From 2009

Monday, February 1st, 2010

Overview: Each year, Larry Swedroe takes a look back at the investing lessons the markets provided in the past year. The market’s early-year swoon and subsequent rebound in 2009 not only tested investor discipline, but also validated why prudent investing principles are important.

Investors were likely relieved to see the markets end the year on such a positive note. Still, it is important to take stock of what has happened in the past year. Here are some lessons that the markets taught (or re-taught) in 2009.

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It’s Important To Be Educated

Friday, January 1st, 2010

Overview: If the majority of investors understood the true benefits of a buy-and-hold strategy, some of the thousands of trades placed each day would likely not be made. Likewise, some of the products that thrive on being complex would see a not-surprising decline in popularity — if investors knew about their many disadvantages. The following are some key investing principles that investors should know.

The Importance of Education
It is our desire and intent to educate clients about how capital markets work and to provide them with the information necessary for their financial well-being.

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Hedge Funds’ Scandalous Behavior

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

Overview: Several academic studies have shown hedge funds to be poor investment choices for prudent investors. Now, several scandals have added to the evidence on this being a poor asset choice.

The investing world was rocked with the news of another hedge fund scandal, as Galleon Group founder Raj Rajaratnam was arrested with five others in an insider trading scandal. The news refreshed the not-too- distant memories of the Bernard Madoff and R. Allen Stanford scandals and thrust hedge funds back into the spotlight. It also serves as another example of why investors are best served by avoiding these investment vehicles altogether.

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The Role of Fixed Income

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009

Overview: For many investors, fixed income (or bonds) is an important part of their investing equation. However, many investors misunderstand the roles that fixed income play in portfolios. The following discusses the proper use of fixed income.

One of the most basic distinctions in investing is between equity and fixed income. While many investors know the difference between the two, it’s important to note the differing roles they play:

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