Tips to Keep Your Investments Smart and Savvy

By Art Gib

Everywhere you turn, every time you turn on the news, every time you pick up the paper--there is no avoiding dismal reports about the state of our economy. Frightening words such as "crisis," and "recession," seem to crop up in every conversation at some point.

But what does all this really mean for you, your family, and your future? Is it even worth investing at all when all we hear about at the end of the day is the stock market's constant downturn?

A healthy dose of caution is probably a great thing for all of us in times of uncertainty, but retreating into your shell to wait out the recession is one of the worst things you can do. In fact, now may be the very best time to invest. Out of every economic slump emerge new fortunes.

So what are a few things to know as you get started? Well, emotional buying and selling is common in a shaky market, so make every effort to avoid such practices. When the stock market goes does, as it often will, do not panic. People who give in to panic have a tendency to buy high and sell low--they lose in the long run.

Remember to diversify your investments. Many investors have lost the whole of their retirement fund because they put all their eggs into one basket. Don't let such a sad story become one that describes the fate of your portfolio.

Novice investors have a tendency to trade their stock often based on information they hear on television or the radio, or they trust to the advice of a friend. That is why you will want to avoid making decisions based upon pretty much anything other than professional advice. In general, listening to not-so-savvy advice does not provide any benefits to the investor, but their broker will end up profiting from trading fees, which tend to add up quickly.

When you are looking for the right stocks for you, search for companies that have a high potential for growth. Don't necessarily rely on the market's predictions. It may also be a good idea to invest in things you truly care about, such as types of medical research. This may keep you from trading too frequently or panicking and selling stock just because it takes a small hit on Wall Street.

Finally, don't allow yourself to become greedy. You can find numerous books that have been written on the dangers of greed in the market--if I may say so, that's much of what got this country in its current mess. So if you find yourself slipping into that, take a step back for awhile.

This is certainly a nerve-wracking time, but if you invest prudently, this can be the first step on the road to a fortunate future.

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About The Author
If you want more great stock tips like these, be sure to check out Blue Chip Stock Trader (bluechipstocktrader.com) for an invaluable newsletter that can keep you smart and savvy in today's market. Art Gib is a freelance writer.