In the 1970s, I did it on paper, as practice. In 1980, I bought 200 shares of Chrysler for around $800.
Q. What is your best investment so far?
Oracle Corp. I made about $90,000 on that sucker.
Q. What is your worst investment so far?
I had Boeing in my 401(k) where I worked. I planned to roll it over eventually at a certain market value, and it didn't happen. I lost about $150,000 on that one.
Q. What have you learned that you think all investors should know?
You've got to be in the market and pay attention to what you're looking at. Think down the road - no matter how old you are, no matter how young you are, you're not going to buy something and roll it over. Basically, you have to pay attention to what you're doing and don't buy on whims.
Q. How would you describe your approach to investing?
I'm conservative, but I do take risks. I just bought a stock last year, picked it up at $12. It's around $18 now. I think it's a $25 stock. Then I'll unload half.
Q. What do you find the most difficult about investing?
When to sell.
Q. How are you invested now?
Seventy-five percent in the market, 25 percent in real estate and cash.
Q. What is your goal for your investing?
To enjoy life and hope what I have will carry me through without going in the hole. Never touch principal - only interest.
