Many corporate and individual clients I coach have asked if it’s essential to consider the significance of sectors, industries, individual companies, and economic factors over a long period when investing. Investing requires patience, consistency, and time to achieve substantial returns. Therefore, time is the most significant advantage for an investor.
Based on historical data, it has been proven that certain equities, commonly referred to as stocks, have outperformed other traditional investments like Treasury Notes, Corporate Bonds, and even commodities like gold, oil, and inflation, dating back to the 1920s. In some cases, stocks have even outperformed real estate investments, excluding the income produced by certain real estate classes.
Peter Earle, an economist at the American Institute of Economic Research, has previously stated that the average long-term return for stocks is around 8%, without considering the reinvestment of dividends. In comparison, real estate offers a return of approximately 4%, excluding the generated income. Treasuries and inflation average approximately 5% and 3%, respectively, over the same timeframe. A review of gold and other commodities shows that, as a group, they have consistently underperformed stocks. Therefore, if an investor aims for the best potential for wealth accumulation, stocks are a better option than other asset classes. This would also apply to stock-based mutual funds.
Investing in the stock market can lead to significant gains if you find the right stock in the right sector and at the right time. Typically, investors accumulate their wealth by buying and holding stocks of businesses for extended periods. One effective method is Dollar-Cost-Averaging, where you invest the same amount of money on a weekly or monthly basis regardless of whether your investment is up or down. However, use caution and set a target price range to ensure profitable returns. Remember, sticking to a strategy is crucial until your objectives or needs change.
You can achieve your investment goals by diversifying across sectors and economies, but avoid overexposure to any one area. You can achieve your investment goals by diversifying across sectors and economies, but avoid overexposure to any one area.
As an investor, it’s common to consider investing in trendy and momentum-based strategies you read or hear about. In 2023, the markets have been volatile, but some stocks have provided exceptional returns. It can be tempting to invest in these stocks despite them not fitting your investment strategy. However, I warn you against deciding based on one year’s return. Take your time and analyze the stock’s performance over five to ten years. Making an investment decision based on short-term trends or a one-year rise may not be the best option. It’s challenging to identify the next trend at the right time, so it’s crucial to stay informed and keep track of the market to make informed decisions. Don’t get too excited about catching or missing a trend. Instead, create a plan and stick to it.
As an investor, it is essential to consider the significance of different sectors, industries, individual companies (or funds of companies), and economic factors over a long-term horizon that aligns with your financial objectives and season of life. Time is a critical advantage, as it takes a significant period, consistency, and patience to see your returns on investment. Achieving any investment goal requires creating a plan and investing based on that plan while also minimizing personal biases and noise from the media.
I’ll end by saying that diversification and asset allocation cannot guarantee profits or prevent losses, especially short-term ones. However, they can minimize your risk exposure.
Forever Forward
Troy Dooly
The Beachside CEO
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