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THOMAS TAYLOR: 69, retired, Brooksville
By Times Staff Writer
Published November 13, 2005
How did you get started in investing?
Back when I first started my career, some friends bought some stocks and I joined them. This was at least 40 years ago.
What is your best investment so far?
I got lucky on a stock that was bought out by a publishing company, National Computer Systems. One of those lucky things you read about.
What is your worst investment so far?
Kmart. I went in with my eyes open. When they were in bankruptcy, I bet they would come out of it. And they didn't.
What have you learned about investing that you think all investors should know?
Do your own homework. Listen to your advisers, but don't take everything they say. Check it out.
How would you describe your approach to investing?
Conservative - long-term, not a trader, more of a buy-and-hold as much as I can.
What do you find the most difficult about investing?
Knowing when to sell. Buying is a lot quicker and easier.
How are you invested now?
Eighty percent stock and equity, and 20 percent cash.
What changes, if any, have you made in your investments in the past year?
I'm trying to diversify a little bit away from utilities and into things like Proctor & Gamble and some of the blue chips. Instead of increasing utilities, I'm going into consumables.
Do you think now is a good time to invest?
Depending on where you go with it, it's always a good time to buy something. The problem is knowing what to pick.
What is your goal for your investing?
Just a place to put what I have that gets a decent return. I'm not looking to make a billion. What comes, comes.
What is your biggest money concern right now?
I think the irresponsible spending by Congress is going to come home and roost at some point.
Where do you get your investment tips?
I read the newspaper, keep up on earnings. I go to the library. I check out Value Line at the library. I don't do much with a broker.
[Last modified November 11, 2005, 01:22:02]
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