I took early retirement (in 1993) and had to park a lump sum distribution somewhere. A friend had invested with a local brokerage, so I followed his course.
Q. What is your best investment so far?
REITs, real estate investment trusts. They've done very well.
Q. What is your worst investment so far?
Some of my Putnam funds.
Q. What have you learned about investing that you think others should know?
Just read as much information as you can possibly get your hands on. There's no reason why a person cannot be informed about making investment decisions.
Q. How would you describe your approach to investing?
Somewhat conservative. I'm willing to take moderate risks, but I do not invest heavily in aggressive funds. Diversification has worked quite well for me through the years.
Q. What do you find the most difficult about investing?
Probably knowing when to make changes in your portfolio. You have to take your licks and move on.
Q. How are you invested now?
Probably 60 percent in stocks and 40 percent in bonds.
Q. Do you think now is a good time to invest?
Absolutely. Any time is a good time to invest.
Q. Do you have a goal for your investing.
I invest for the long run. A lot of my investments are held in an IRA. When the time comes when I have to take a distribution, I just hope I find the market is favorable.
Q. Where do you get your investment advice?
Watching financial channels on TV. Newspaper business sections and occasionally I will read some financial articles - Kiplinger is a good source.
- The Times Money Panel is composed of more than 500 readers who have signed up to share their opinions on making, saving and spending money.
