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 investing-what it is and how it works-before 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. In 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 activities-selection, timing, and execution-he 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.

"Ben Branch is an extremely knowledgeable and respected player in his field. I think his investment philosophy of three yards and a cloud of dust is the right approach for most individual investors." -- Henry F. Owsley, CEO and President, Gordian Group, LLC "This is an excellent primer on investing which covers an enormous breadth of topics, instruments, and markets. I especially like the rules and guidelines on how to avoid losing serious money while investing. Ben Branch writes in a no-nonsense manner that is easy and fun to read." -- Edward I. Altman, Director, Credit & Debt Markets Research Program, Max L. Heine Professor of Finance, New York University, Salomon Center

About the Author
Ben S. Branch is Professor of Finance at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he has taught finance, investment, banking, and industrial organization for over 30 years. He was previously on the faculty at Dartmouth College, the University of Michigan, and the University of Texas, and has served on the boards of several corporations, including the First Republic Bank, BankEast, Bank of New England, and Proactive Technologies. Currently serving as associate editor of the International Review of Financial Analysis, he has published dozens of journal articles and book reviews, and is the coauthor of Bankruptcy Investing and author of Fundamentals of Investment for Financial Planning.

Reviews
Branch explains the fundamental principles of successful investing for individuals. Using non-technical language, he reviews the basics of compound interest and introduces readers to stocks, bonds, options, mutual funds, real estate, futures, and other types of investments. He also covers lesser-known opportunities such as bankruptcies and takeovers. An extensive and detailed glossary of terms is found at the back of the volume. * Reference & Research Book News *



Book Information
ISBN 9780275990282
Author Ben S. Branch
Format Hardback
Page Count 296
Imprint Praeger Publishers Inc
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Weight(grams) 595g