I started with mutual funds around 1990-91. About two years ago, I got into individual stocks.
Q. What is your best investment so far?
There's a little stock called Hi-Tech Pharmacal. Over a period of time, I made about $1,800 in six months.
Q. What have you learned about investing that others should know?
The strategy is follow the big money, the big institutions. They're the ones who create the market. Idea is to come in right behind them. Make sure you don't stay in too long.
Q. How would you describe your approach to investing?
I don't believe in buy and hold any more. My goal is $500 profit or to minimize my loss by putting in stop limits. Make a little bit, and be sure I don't lose a lot. I've diversified now. I still will take advantage of what the market will give me. Right now, I do move when the market moves. I do not short stocks at all.
Q. What is the most difficult aspect of investing?
The time. It requires a lot of time. You've got to pay attention to what's going on and learn as much as you can. And you have to get lucky, frankly.
Q. How are you invested now?
About 10 percent of my retirement account is in stocks I use to trade. The other 90 percent, mutual funds.
Q. Do you have any goals for your investments?
I want to beat the other common investments concepts - mutual funds, annuities, etc. I want to do better than they do. I have a goal for each stock I buy.
