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Money panel

By FRED W. WRIGHT JR.
Published September 24, 2006

David Bell

67, retired, Clearwater 

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.

How did you get started in investing?

My employer's 401(k) plan in 1981.

What is your best investment?

Mostly mutual funds. I think one of the American Funds - Washington Mutual - did well for me.

What is your worst investment?

Winn-Dixie.

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

Diversify. Don't put all your eggs in any one basket or any one group of baskets. We're in 15 different funds, and I try to pick funds that don't duplicate each other.

How would you describe your approach to investing?

Conservative. I was very aggressive in the late '90s and early 2000s.

What do you find the most difficult about investing?

The temptation to take chances, even now, because of all the things that happen in the financial world.

How are you invested?

About 70 percent in mutual funds, the rest in individual stocks and some real estate.

Have you made any changes in your investments in the past year?

No.

Do you think now is a good time to invest?

Oh, yes. If you have time, I think investing, whether in the stock market or in real estate, is a wise strategy.

What is your goal for investing?

To maintain my lifestyle and be debt free.

What is your biggest money concern?

Inflation.

Where do you get investment tips?

I go online. I mainly consult with my financial adviser with a local investment company once a quarter. I take Money magazine and Smart Money magazine.

[Last modified September 24, 2006, 01:10:13]