The views expressed in this article are of the writer’s own opinion and do not represent financial advice. If you do require financial advice then see your bank manager or financial advisor.
How to get rich or lose your shirt trying
By R. A. Stewart
“Just how can I get rich on the stock exchange.” That is the $64,000 question, one that has no definitive answer. The question should really be, “How long will it take for me to get rich on the stock exchange?” Investors who have kept up to date with the financial stuff in the newspapers and TV will know that the sharemarket is a long term game. It is time rather than timing which is the key, however, having said that, it is unrealistic for someone aged 60 to have a 30 year plan to make money on the markets.
A younger person, on the other hand is able to take more risks, because they have more years left to recover from financial setbacks.
Share prices do not always represent true value just as at the race track where the horse’s odds do not represent their true chances of winning the race. The share price is a reflection of the opinions of investors, this opinion can be based on fears, hope, or just plain greed. The share price will move in either direction on the back of news about the company.
The mum and dad investors who buys and sells shares is competing with some very astute investors. Many of whom are the best financial brains in the country, however if you have invested in managed funds as everyone enrolled in kiwisaver has you will have the benefit of these brains who are emplyed as fund managers working on behalf of you. There are other types of investments where you are able to dripfeed money into the sharemarket. Sharesies is one of these; you have the option of investing in managed funds or individual companies. This will give you experience and knowledge of how the market works. Another string to your financial bow you might say.
Someone’s loss can be your gain; when others are selling their shares you buy. There can be some good bargains in the sharemarket when investors are pessimistic and you can take advantage of this. We have seen with the coronavirus pandemic that the markets are struggling with the worst affected companies being airlines and other companies connected to tourism. They can bounce back once this is all over.
Many companies have professional directors whose task is to boost the image of the company. They do little else except be paid for the use of their name.
It cannot be stressed enough that if the possibility of loss is going to cause you sleepless nights then stay out of the sharemarket. Life is too short for it not to be enjoyed.
You should however still be signed up for the kiwisaver retirement scheme, because if you are not you are missing out on the $520 per annum government contribution and the 3% employer contribution. To receive the $520, you must contribute at least $1040
www.robertastewart.com
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