Nightingale 0 #26 January 30, 2009 If a good broker does it, it's investing. If you do it yourself over the internet, it's gambling. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BillyVance 35 #27 January 30, 2009 Investing in a porn company? Now why didn't I think of that? There are three things you will always see in this world: Death, Taxes and Porn "Mediocre people don't like high achievers, and high achievers don't like mediocre people." - SIX TIME National Champion coach Nick Saban Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Remster 30 #28 January 30, 2009 QuoteIf a good broker does it, it's investing. If you do it yourself over the internet, it's gambling. I think you are being overdramatic. If you set up a online brokage account where you schedule monthly transfer from your bank account, and invest in a SP500 or R3000 Spider, or Vanguard tracker fund, I wouldnt call that gambling.Remster Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stitch 0 #29 January 30, 2009 Quote Investing in a porn company? Now why didn't I think of that? There are three things you will always see in this world: Death, Taxes and Porn So if you invest in Dominatix services and demand a 40% cut, does that make you a pimp ? "No cookies for you"- GFD "I don't think I like the sound of that" ~ MB65 Don't be a "Racer Hater" Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DrewEckhardt 0 #30 January 30, 2009 QuoteThere is absolutely no reason for a person who is not a professional to be investing in individual stocks. There are exceptions. I've worked for companies with employee stock purchase plans where the share price was a 15% discount off the lower of the share price at the beginning and end of the six month window in which you were putting money in. You won as long as the stock didn't drop 15% overnight. You won big if it went up over the six month window. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfriverjoe 1,523 #31 January 30, 2009 QuoteMy Dad, who is very internet challenged (does not even have a computer) asked me to try and get him into the internet trading market. I am fucking clueless, but of course want to help him out. My question is: How much should he invest? Is it better to have a broker, or do this all over the internet? Is it better to do this stuff over the internet? HELP! The fact that you (and your dad) are asking for help tells me you need a broker. Short-term buying and selling is little more than gambling. It can be lots of fun, but you have to sit and watch it constantly to have any hope of turning a profit. And it's a slim hope. Most banks have investment advisors. Low or no cost if you are a customer. They have good advice. Follow it, not what the ding-dongs here say (me included) He will probably direct your dad toward mutual funds. What kind (different sorts of stock funds, bond funds, ect) is dependent on goals, risk tolerance, amount to invest, time frames, ect. I was taught that the best way to invest is set amounts on a regular basis (monthly weekly or per paycheck). Most brokers can set up auto-pay out of your bank account (another reason to go through the bank). Depending on how old your dad is IRAs make a lot of sense as long as you are going to leave the money in until you retire. This is a great time to invest. The old adage "Buy low, sell high" is true, although where and when the bottom of this market is (was) is the million dollar question. But doing it without knowing what you are doing is like jumping without any instruction."There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy "~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
hypsin 0 #32 January 31, 2009 QuoteIf a good broker does it, it's investing. If you do it yourself over the internet, it's gambling. Only difference is that broker gambles with someone else's money. Educated investment is still an investment, no matter who does it or which tools are used. My .02 kopeks... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Rstanley0312 1 #33 January 31, 2009 This is what I do for a living and I also am a very active trader. First I will tell you that in the past mutual funds were a smart move but just for your knowledge.... 5 of 1400 or so mutual funds finished in the black in 2008. The truth is that buy and hold is not smart right now. You have to play the game and yes it is a game with money management rules very similar to blackjack. If you want me to get specific and want me to give you some suggestions, feel free to PM me. Just like others have said..... use only money you can lose! I say you should never trade with more than 30% of your overall portfolio. This applies to forex, options, stocks, etc..... Blues RobLife is all about ass....either you're kicking it, kissing it, working it off, or trying to get a piece of it. Muff Brother #4382 Dudeist Skydiver #000 www.fundraiseadventure.com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites