Edgar Lawrence Smith, (1882-1971) was an economist, investment manager and author of the influential book “Common Stocks as Long Term Investments”, which promoted the then-surprising idea that stocks excel bonds in long-term yield. . He worked in banking and other financial endeavors in the years after college, then signed on in 1922 as an adviser to the brokerage firm Low, Dixon & Company. While there, he later recounted in his Harvard class’s 50th reunion yearbook, “I tried to write a pamphlet on why bonds were the best form of long term investment. But supporting evidence for this thesis could not be found.” This discovery led to the 1924 publication of “Common Stocks as Long Term Investments.” The book was widely reviewed and praised, and became a key intellectual support for the 1920s stock market boom. Its success enabled Smith to launch a mutual fund firm, “Investment Managers Company.” It also garnered him an invitation from the economist John Maynard Keynes, who had favorably reviewed the book in “The Nation”, to join the Royal Economic Society. The Wall Street Crash of 1929 brought a turn in Smith’s fortunes.—Print Ed.

Deep insight and candid discussion from one of Wall Street's best investors Common Stocks and Common Sense provides detailed insight into common stock investing, using a case-study approach based on real-world investments. Author Edgar Wachenheim is the 28-year CEO of Greenhaven Associates, boasting an average annual portfolio comparable to Warren Buffet's. In this book, he shares his knowledge and experiences by providing detailed analyses of actual investments made by himself and other investors. The discussion covers the entire investment process, including the softer, human side, with candid insight into the joys and frustrations, intensities and pressures, and risks and uncertainties. The unique emphasis on behavioral economics and real-world cases set this book apart from the herd—but it's Wachenheim himself and his deeply-examined perspective that elevates the book beyond a mere investing guide. Between 1990 and 2014, a typical portfolio managed by Wachenheim enjoyed an average annual return in excess of 18%, achieved using relatively conservative stocks and no financial leverage. As a proponent of evidence and example, his analysis of real cases serve as a valuable education for anyone looking to improve their own investment practices. Understand investment through the lens of a Wall Street leader Dig into the details of real-world common stock investing Learn how to invest creatively and minimize risk Go beyond theory to study strategy on a case-by-case basis Investment principles and strategies are easy to find—entire libraries have been written about theories and methods and what 'should' happen. But this book goes beyond the typical guide to show you how these ideas are applied in the real world—and what actually happened. Investors seeking real insight, real expertise, and a proven track record will find Common Stocks and Common Sense a uniquely useful resource.