If You're So Smart Why Aren't You Rich?

Football is often described as a game of inches. First downs scoring and in/out of bound decisions that can determine the outcome of the game may even come down to fractions of an inch. Investing is similar: the difference between outperforming or underperforming the market may be a few fractions of a percentage point. As Ben Branch succinctly states successful investing defined as outperforming the market averages is not easy. And yet it is very much a game worth playing particularly if you win. The key to being on the winning side is to understand the fundamental principles of investingwhat it is and how it worksbefore making any decision. In this highly practical non-technical guide Branch introduces the reader to stocks bonds options mutual funds real estate futures and all of the other basic elements of the market. He debunks popular myths and misconceptions about investing and shows you how to avoid mistakes in order to invest wisely. An extensive glossary definitions and examples and lists of dos and don''ts will make this book a handy resource for the novice as well as for seasoned investors looking to take their game to the next level this highly practical non-technical guide Branch provides the building blocks of a multi-dimensional investing approach. First he reviews the principle of compound interest the foundation of all investment strategy and performance. Then arguing that successful investing is a function of three types of activitiesselection timing and executionhe introduces the reader to stocks bonds options mutual funds real estate futures and all of the other elements of the market. In addition to covering well-known investments in detail he explains lesser-known opportunities such as bankruptcies and takeovers. Special topics include the effects of macroeconomic trends and the subtleties of timing for maximum advantage. He debunks popular myths and misconceptions about investing and shows you how to avoid mistakes in order to invest wisely. An extensive glossary definitions and examples and lists of dos and don''ts will make this book a handy resource for the novice as well as for seasoned investors looking to take their game to the next level.