I was car pooling with someone who was heavy into investing in the stock market. I started in 1985 and have been working with a local brokerage for stocks and mutual funds.
Q. What is your best investment so far?
I've done well with index funds and Schwab 1000. I've done well with more conservative stocks, some bank stocks, Staples, Pepsi, Johnson & Johnson.
Q. What is your worst investment so far?
My worst stocks were high-tech stocks. I got caught in the 2000 bubble.
Q. What have you learned about investing that you think others should know?
I think you should have a mix of bonds, stocks and mutual funds. I also buy index funds quarterly. I find that is a good technique to use.
Q. How would you describe your approach to investing?
I believe you need to be somewhat conservative. You need to have a balanced portfolio. It's important to generate income and to be involved with growth.
Q. What do you find the most difficult about investing?
The most difficult (is) to sell a stock sometimes if you fall in love with a stock. Recently, I've become more involved in stop-loss orders after a 10 percent or 15 percent gain. If you have a profit, don't be afraid to sell the stock before it becomes a loss.
Q. Do you think this is a good time to invest?
Yes. (Although) I expect a short-term correction. I think the early fall will be a better time to invest.
