This book is the first of its kind in providing, simultaneously and comprehensively, historical, institutional and theoretical foundations for developments in the stock market. It debunks many a myth about stock price behavior and the valuation of stocks. The traditional valuation models are tested and shown to be often weak and unreliable, especially when applied to the valuation of technology stocks. New paradigms are suggested.The authors seek to answer many questions about the stock market: Why invest in stocks, how to invest in stocks, how to value stocks, how to change the risk profile of portfolios, how to analyze the results of stock investing, and how to minimize estate taxes and maximize control, even after death.All aspects of the stock market are covered, including the basic tools that will enable the reader to understand the stock market basics, the history of stock market performance in the US and overseas, the various ways to value stocks and to assess their risk, and the various methods that have been proposed to capitalize on the inefficiencies of the stock market, be they temporary or permanent. The book also deals with the derivative markets for stocks.

John J. Murphy has updated his landmark bestseller Technical Analysis of the Futures Markets, to include all of the financial markets. This outstanding reference has already taught thousands of traders the concepts of technical analysis and their application in the futures and stock markets. Covering the latest developments in computer technology, technical tools, and indicators, the second edition features new material on candlestick charting, intermarket relationships, stocks and stock rotation, plus state-of-the-art examples and figures. From how to read charts to understanding indicators and the crucial role technical analysis plays in investing, readers gain a thorough and accessible overview of the field of technical analysis, with a special emphasis on futures markets. Revised and expanded for the demands of today's financial world, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in tracking and analyzing market behavior.

Building Wealth in the Stock Market provides a complete model for investing successfully and safely in bull and bear markets. Experienced investor and teacher Colin Nicholson shares with readers his very own investment plan -- one that has been honed over 40 years and that has seen him consistently beat the market and his target rate of return. Everything in Nicholson's investing method is fully disclosed simply and with a minimum of market jargon. The central idea is how to manage risk in order to grow capital and secure a stream of dividends. The various risks to be managed are explained, along with strategies for managing them. Aspects also covered include: how to improve your decision-making skills, modelled on the way the best investors think what is needed to succeed and why having an investment plan is crucial for success how to select stocks, using charting and fundamental ratios in combination to achieve a margin of safety how to manage your portfolio -- when to buy, how to build a position, when to cut losses and when to take profits. The methods are brought to life through case studies based on real investments and the sharing of insights gained from years of experience and research. This book will change the way you think about the stock market forever.

An intriguing look at how past market wisdom can help you survive and thrive during uncertain times In Wealth, War & Wisdom, legendary Wall Street investor Barton Biggs reveals how the turning points of World War II intersected with market performance, and shows how these lessons can help the twenty-first-century investor comprehend our own perilous times as well as choose the best strategies for the modern market economy. Through these pages, Biggs skillfully discusses the performance of equities in both victorious and defeated countries, examines how individuals preserved their wealth despite the ongoing battles, and explores whether or not public equities were able to increase in value and serve as a wealth preserver. Biggs also looks at how other assets, including real estate and gold, fared during this dynamic and devastating period, and offers valuable insights on preserving one's wealth for future generations. With clear, concise prose, Biggs Reveals how the investment insights of truly trying times can be profitably applied to modern day investment endeavors Follows the performance of global markets against the backdrop of World War II Offers many relevant lessons-about life, politics, financial markets, wealth, and survival-that can help you thrive in the face of adversity Wealth, War & Wisdom contains essential insights that will help you navigate modern financial markets during the uncertain times that will increasingly define this new century.

A simple guide to a smarter strategy for the individual investor A Wealth of Common Sense sheds a refreshing light on investing, and shows you how a simplicity-based framework can lead to better investment decisions. The financial market is a complex system, but that doesn't mean it requires a complex strategy; in fact, this false premise is the driving force behind many investors' market "mistakes." Information is important, but understanding and perspective are the keys to better decision-making. This book describes the proper way to view the markets and your portfolio, and show you the simple strategies that make investing more profitable, less confusing, and less time-consuming. Without the burden of short-term performance benchmarks, individual investors have the advantage of focusing on the long view, and the freedom to construct the kind of portfolio that will serve their investment goals best. This book proves how complex strategies essentially waste these advantages, and provides an alternative game plan for those ready to simplify. Complexity is often used as a mechanism for talking investors into unnecessary purchases, when all most need is a deeper understanding of conventional options. This book explains which issues you actually should pay attention to, and which ones are simply used for an illusion of intelligence and control. Keep up with—or beat—professional money managers Exploit stock market volatility to your utmost advantage Learn where advisors and consultants fit into smart strategy Build a portfolio that makes sense for your particular situation You don't have to outsmart the market if you can simply outperform it. Cut through the confusion and noise and focus on what actually matters. A Wealth of Common Sense clears the air, and gives you the insight you need to become a smarter, more successful investor.