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Money panel

ADAM COOVADIA: 29, genetic technologist, St. Petersburg

By Times Staff Writer
Published January 9, 2005

How did you get started in investing?

I accumulated some saving during my teens, so under the tutelage of my mother, I started to invest in term deposits and bonds when I was 16.

What is your best investment so far?

It's always been my primary residence. A single stock would be Audible.com. They deliver audio books online. It has done really well recently.

What is your worst investment so far?

The Janus Mutual Fund.

What have you learned about investing that you think all investors should know?

The difference between nominal and real interest rates. When people look at interest rates, they think, "Wow, that's a high interest rate." They don't factor in inflation. It's a relative thing. I'm still discovering this: There are many ways to make money besides stocks and mutual funds.

How would you describe your approach to investing?

I guess maybe creatively conservative. I like my capital to be safe, but I'm willing to look at pretty much anything.

What do you find the most difficult about investing?

It can be kind of time-consuming. You have to constantly research and plan, constantly shifting assets or concepts of how to approach your assets.

How are you invested now?

About 70 percent market growth term deposits; 20 percent government securities; 10 percent single stocks.

What changes, if any, have you made in your investments in the past year?

More market growth term deposits. Your capital is usually 100 percent guaranteed, but the rate of return is based on the market.

Do you think now is a good time to invest?

I think it's always a good time to invest, (although) probably not a good time to invest directly into the market - a lot of uncertainty in the country. There are always ways to make money.

What is your goal for your investing?

I have two children; I want to put them through university and live comfortably. Nothing too fancy.

What is your biggest money concern right now?

Inflation and the incredibly large federal debt we have right now.

Where do you go for your investment tips?

Local newspapers, TV magazines, the Internet, Market Place on NPR. Everywhere. Just talking to people. I just try to keep my ears open. Listening to other people may be the best way, in fact. One of the main people, my senior investment adviser, is my mother-in-law. She's a retired business writer for Canadian newspapers.

[Last modified January 9, 2005, 00:14:18]