Business Update – I’m Starting New Business!

It has been a long time since I’ve posted an update on what going on with me in the financial world.  Some fun news is that I’m starting a new business with several other folks.  Before I go into details on it, I’ll talk a bit about what been shifting in my personal world and hobbies.

What Hobbies Have I Gotten Into?

One of the biggest hobbies I’ve gotten into over the past 12 months is e-bikes!  I started getting interested in e-bikes after learning more about them from some coworkers and researching them via reddit.

I found this guy that makes YouTube videos and trains people on how to build their own e-bike – Johnny Nerdout.  He was a great resource to help me gain the confidence that I could build my own e-bike from my existing mountain bike.  And, I could save hundreds or thousands of dollars vs. buying a brand-new e-bike.

So, I went out and bought an e-bike motor and battery kit from AliExpress right around Thanksgiving 2023.  I’m a mechanical engineer by training, so it was a lot of fun to upgrade my bike and get everything working.  It took WAY longer than I thought, but it was a fulfilling exercise once the build was complete.

Another great thing that drew me into e-biking was that I could commute to work most days of the year.  I live about 12 miles from my work, so an e-bike is perfect to get to and from work in ~40 mins per trip.  Also, a HUGE benefit is that I get nearly 1.5 hours of exercise each work day.  It does stink to ride in the Oregon rain though, but it’s still fun overall!

I’ve been e-biking into work for about a year now (11 months I guess by now), and it has been great overall for my physical and mental health.  I feel like a kid again, and I just love it.  I used to ride my bike ALL THE TIME as a kid, and I stopped doing that as I got into high-school and beyond.  Riding my e-bike to work has been a great decision for me, and has saved a HUGE amount of money on gas vs. using my Corolla to get to work.

My Current Financial Situation

Long-time readers will know that I’ve been running MoneyAhoy.com for ~11 years now.  I cannot believe it’s been that long, but here we are :-)!

Anyhow, through disciplined money saving, money making, and investing, we have been able to build quite a nest egg.  Our family is basically at the point of financial independence, and we can “retire” at any point.  This has caused us to re-evaluate what “work” means to us and to get more comfortable selecting work/things we enjoy vs. working in some kind of hellish type of job that stresses us out.

As a result of this, this reality has created in me a whole new mindset.  I’ve trained myself over the past two years to NOT stress out at work (my day job) over the next crazy flavor of the month kicked off by management or some PITA person that would normally annoy me to no end.  I just let it roll off of me like water off of a duck’s back.

This has brought up a lot of thinking for my wife and me about what’s next for us as our kid’s are moving through their high-school careers.  I know as we get closer to retirement, I need something to keep me busy.  I can not just sit around and play video games and watch TV all day.  I would go crazy!

So, I did some soul-searching to try and look for answers on what to create as a 5-year plan for myself.  One thing which occurred to me is I’d like to find my Ikigai.  Ikigai is basically a melding of the following:

1. What you LOVE
2. What you are GOOD AT
3. What you can be PAID FOR
4. What the world NEEDS

What Kind of Business Should I Start – How to Decide?

Based on the Ikigai way of thinking, I needed to think through if I even wanted to start a business.  It is tempting to just leave the world behind and plan to travel for the rest of my life.  As my wife and I thought more and more about this, it didn’t seem terribly realistic.  We do NOT have enough saved to support world travel 24×7.  If we wanted to get to this point of savings, we might need to work another ~10 or so years.  We’re not sure we’re ready to sign up for that, so perhaps some compromise is necessary.

Also, based on what I was learning on the Ikigai principles, items #3 and #4 above basically dictate working in some kind of business – either owned by me or as an employee.  So, I began to think through what sort of business would be ideal for me to participate in both now and into the distant future as I eventually “retire” from my day job.

The Ideal Business for Me

When I combine all of these four Ikigai principles: what I love, what I’m good at, what I can get paid for, and what the world needs, I came up with an interesting idea that I’m pursuing.

Here’s the thought process:

1. What I LOVE – E-biking, cool bike parts, and building up E-bikes and standard bikes.
2. What I’m GOOD AT – I’m good at mechanical engineering, CAD work, CNC knowledge, running a small business (putting my MBA and training to work), and websites/internet (a long hobby of mine).
3. What I can be PAID FOR – e-bike and standard bicycle parts (think pedals, chain rings, stems, frames, etc.).
4. What the world NEEDS – e-biking seems to be exploding.  Many people I see and know are buying e-bikes and enjoying biking again.  As the effects of Global Warming become more and more evident, low emission transportation solutions need to be explored.

So there you have it – if I could build a business around creating and selling parts for bicycles and further encourage the adoption of e-bike usage, this would be my true Ikigai.

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

So, I set out to find some partners that could help me on my vision.  I found a couple of folks I trust that I feel like will make the perfect partners to help achieve this vision.  And the great part is, they are bringing MANY ideas on how we can expand beyond bicycles to help them realize some of their vision, hobbies, and passions!

1. Partner #1 – an expert at part design, CNC programming, and running a CNC.  Also an expert artist.  Loves to ride BMX and dirt bikes.
2. Partner #2 – an expert at welding, talented at CNC and painting, and a natural born salesman.  Loves to ride BMX, dirt bikes, and skateboarding.
3. Partner #3 – an expert at running CNC machine shops, materials procurement, bills of materials, and has a passion for road biking.

We started our company in May of 2024, and have several business units mapped out that we would eventually like to get into as we grow.  For now, we are totally in startup mode, and we are still running things on a shoe-string budget.

Here are the business units we envision:

1. Bicycle – CNC parts, welded frames, and distributor for electronic components utilized on E-bikes.
2. Motorport – CNC parts for dirt bikes, ATVs, motorcycles.
3. Fabrication – CNC parts for CNC machine shops (recursive ).
4. Art – various apparel (hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc.), stickers, laser-etched household items (like tumblers) and welded metal art.

Pictures of prototypes and products for sale that we’ve made:

Generation #4 Bike Pedal Prototype

Custom Laser-Etched Tumbler – Bulldog

Moongate Customs Two Skulls Sweatshirt

Check Out our Business Websites

We are set out on the journey to build a business in which we (the four of us) will LOVE and one in which we can dedicate ourselves!  This is realistically a multi-year journey as we all need our day jobs currently.

We have websites roughed out now for #1 and #4 above.  These are changing all the time, so check them out often:

1. MoongateCycles.com – this is our bicycle brand.
2. MoongateCustoms.com – this is our art and customization brand.

At MoongateCycles, we are working on a generation #5 pedal now.  Check out the blog to read up on some testing we’ve done for the generation #4 version of the pedal.  We plan to have the generation #5 pedal ready for sale before the end of the year with custom pedal Cerakote colors!  Check back and purchase your set soon!!

At MoongateCustoms, we are releasing a bunch of cool hats and t-shirts.  Check them out now – you will look awesome in them I’m sure!!  We are rolling out new designs all the time, so check back here often as well!!

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3 Benefits of Owning vs. Renting Your Home

Are you tired of throwing away money on rent every month? It might be time to begin the process of purchasing your own home! While renting a living space might offer some short-term convenience and flexibility, there are numerous benefits to owning a home that many people overlook. Today’s blog will explore just 3 of the many advantages of owning versus renting your home. If you have been debating between renting or buying, keep reading to discover why investing in a home could be one of the best decisions you make for yourself and your future financial goals!

Long-Term Financial Stability

Owning a home is not only a dream come true for many, but it can also provide the much-needed financial stability we all crave. When you own your home, you have control over your housing costs, so you can accurately plan your future expenses. There’s no need to worry about paying rent each month, and you won’t need to stress that your landlord will increase your rent at renewal time. Additionally, owning a home means you can invest in necessary improvements and upgrades that can increase your property value and help protect against potential financial losses. While it might seem daunting, achieving financial stability through home ownership can be as simple as completing daily bunion exercises.

Investment Potential

Investing in a home has long been considered a smart financial move. Not only does it offer the stability of a permanent residence, but it also has the potential to build equity and increase in value over time. Homeownership allows realizing this investment potential and can become a valuable asset for building wealth. Unlike other investments that can go up and down, real estate values tend to increase, providing a steady return on investment steadily. By owning a home, you build wealth for yourself and future generations, making it a bright and long-lasting investment decision.

Customization and Personalization Opportunities

For many homeowners, owning a home means having the freedom and flexibility to make it their own. From simple updates like a fresh coat of paint to more extensive renovations, the ability to customize and personalize a living space can bring tremendous pride and satisfaction. Whether it’s creating a space that reflects personal taste or meets functional needs, the options are virtually limitless. From knocking down walls to installing new fixtures, there’s no denying the immense sense of ownership and accomplishment of creating a unique home.

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Do I Need a Registered Agent?

When starting a new business, there are many legal requirements that must be met in order to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. One of these requirements is the appointment of a registered agent. A registered agent is a person or company that is designated to receive important legal and tax documents on behalf of a business entity. In this post, we will explore the importance of registered agents and why they are essential for any business.  Hint – you can also be your own Registered Agent!  If you’re out of state, we suggest you use a Registered Agent service like Northwest Registered Agents.

Compliance with State Laws

Almost all states require that businesses appoint a registered agent. The registered agent must be a resident of the state in which the business is registered or have a physical address within the state. This requirement ensures that the state has a reliable way to contact the business in case of legal or tax issues. Failure to appoint a registered agent can result in fines or even the revocation of the business’s legal status.  As mentioned above, if you are registering an LLC out of state, try using Northwest Registered Agents to ensure you are compliant!

Reliable Communication

As mentioned, the registered agent is the designated point of contact for important legal and tax documents. This includes service of process, which is the delivery of legal documents such as a summons and complaint. If a business does not have a registered agent, these documents may be delivered to the wrong person or not received at all, which could have serious consequences. With a registered agent, the business can be sure that it will receive all necessary documents in a timely manner.

Protecting Privacy

In some cases, legal and tax documents may contain sensitive information that a business may not want to make public. By appointing a registered agent, the business can protect its privacy. The registered agent’s address is listed on public records instead of the business’s address, which helps to prevent unwanted visitors or correspondence.   This can also eliminate a lot of junk mail coming to your home address!

Business Continuity

A registered agent can also help to ensure business continuity. If a business moves or changes its address, the registered agent will remain the same. This means that the business will not have to update its contact information with the state or worry about missing important documents during the transition. The registered agent will continue to receive all necessary documents on behalf of the business.  A Registered Agent service like Northwest Registered Agents has help me a lot as I’ve moved around the country but kept my LLC in the state of Virginia.

Flexibility

Another advantage of having a registered agent is that it provides flexibility for a business. The registered agent does not have to be a member of the business or an employee. It can be a third-party company that specializes in providing registered agent services. This means that the business can have a registered agent who is available at all times and has the expertise to handle legal and tax documents.  Again – I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agents as they have always done a great job for me!

Professional Image

Having a registered agent can also help to establish a professional image for a business. It shows that the business is serious about complying with state laws and is prepared to handle legal and tax issues in a responsible manner. This can be particularly important for businesses that work with clients or customers who expect a high level of professionalism.

YouTube Video

If you have more questions on Registered Agents, check out my YouTube video where I go into more detail!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, having a registered agent is essential for any business. It helps to ensure compliance with state laws, provides reliable communication, protects privacy, provides flexibility, ensures business continuity, and establishes a professional image. By appointing a registered agent, a business can focus on its core activities while knowing that its legal and tax affairs are being handled by a reliable and experienced professional.

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For more saving money, making money, and investment ideas go to www.MoneyAhoy.com

6 Easy Ways to Cut Your Grocery Expenses in Half

You recently moved into your new home with the help of Black Tie Moving Nashville. You’re so excited to finally have a place of your own, but you know that means you need to start getting better at saving money. After all, this is your first time having a mortgage payment. Fortunately, there are easy and effective ways to cut back on spending, and one of them is how you spend when it comes to buying your groceries.

This is why we’re offering a list of 6 easy ways to cut your grocery expenses in half. Let’s get into it!

Cook Your Meals

Groceries can be incredibly pricey, and the cost typically goes up if you purchase foods that are premade or prepackaged. If you’re looking to cut back on the cost of groceries, you should consider cooking your own meals. Cooking your own meals ensures that you’re saving a few extra bucks by not buying costly premade meals. (It’s also typically healthier for you!)

Go for Off-Brands

We live in a time when there are plenty of brands to choose from for our groceries. Usually, well-known name brands are often a bit more costly than off-brands. Interestingly, these brands often don’t provide any extra benefits compared to lesser-known brands. On the contrary, popular name brands usually have a disadvantage as they’re more expensive. If you’re looking to cut back on grocery expenses, skip the fancy-name brands on your next trip to the store.

Buy Products in Bulk

Buying your groceries in bulk is an excellent way to cut back on spending at grocery stores. Purchasing products in bulk is known for being much more affordable when compared to buying individual items from the store. Another perk of buying your grocery products in bulk is that it saves you time and gas, as you’re making fewer trips to the grocery store.

Plan Ahead

When it comes to saving money, planning is always an effective method – and this rings true when it comes to buying your groceries. If you go to the store, without a clear idea of what you want to purchase, you’re likely to overspend or buy products that will end up going to waste. Instead, come up with a grocery list of items you know you’ll use before heading to the store.

Start Couponing

One of the easiest ways to spend less money on groceries is to use coupons. Coupons are a great way to lessen the damage as far as your grocery bill is concerned. Plenty of grocery stores and local magazines offer coupons on grocery store products. Be sure to spend some time cutting those coupons out before your next grocery store haul.

Download Money Saving Apps

Did you know that there are some phone apps that give you money back on your groceries? That’s right! Apps, like Upside, pay you to grocery shop. Most of these money-saving apps are easy to use, and they deposit the money directly back into your bank account. You could get as much as 10% of your money back on groceries using apps like Upside.

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3 Ways to Save on the Cost of Rent

Renting your own place can be an exciting and liberating experience, but it’s also a major expense that requires careful budgeting. Rent is one of the biggest costs of living, eating up a significant chunk of income every month. Fortunately, there are several creative ways to cut down on those monthly rent payments and give yourself some extra room in your budget after moving into the apartment of your dreams with the help of the moving experts at Black Tie Moving. In this blog post, we’ll cover three simple but highly effective tips for slashing the cost of rent every month without sacrificing quality or location—so you can invest more in other parts of life! Keep reading to learn more.

1. Consider living with roommates. Sharing a place with one or more roommates can be a great way to cut down on rent costs. Splitting the rent with one or two other people can significantly reduce your monthly expenses, allowing you to invest in other areas. If you’re open to it, you might even consider moving in with a family member or close friend.
2. Negotiate with your landlord. If you’ve already signed a lease, you can still negotiate with your landlord in order to get lower rent payments. Instead of simply asking for a discount, try offering to sign a longer lease term or make some repairs around the apartment in exchange for lower rent. You may be surprised at how far a little bargaining can go.
3. Look outside of the city. Moving to a more affordable area can be an effective way to save on rent. Depending on your location, you may be able to find a much cheaper place in the suburbs or nearby towns. In some cases, this can be a better option than trying to cut costs in an expensive city. While it may mean living further away from work or amenities, you could end up saving a significant amount of money.

By following these tips, you can save on the cost of rent without having to skimp on quality or location. With some creative thinking and a bit of negotiation, you can stretch your budget further and have more money to invest in other areas of life. Start researching today and you may find the perfect place to call home!

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Simple Methods to Save More Money Each Month

You just scheduled a chimney repair with Brickworks Property Restoration. You certainly hadn’t planned on this expense, which will put a bit of a dent on your bank account for the month. Unfortunately, there are many unexpected events that come up in life, and this is where having more in your savings can help tremendously.

If you’re looking to be better about saving money, here are 6 simple methods to save more money each month.

Limit Eating Out

You’d be surprised with just how much money the average American spends on dining out, it’s estimated to be nearly $3,000 dollars a year, which averages to $250 dollars per month. If you’re wanting to save money, limiting your trips to restaurants is one of the easiest ways to start. Instead of dining out for lunch or dinner, cook meals for yourself to save a substantial amount of money in the long run.

Open a Savings Account

It comes as no surprise that opening a savings account can help you to save more money. If you keep all of your money in one checking account, it makes it much more likely that you’ll spend more than you planned on. Opening a savings account sets a clear distinction with what money you’re saving versus what money you’re using for spending. An added bonus is that many savings accounts offer you cash back!

Create a Personal Budget

Creating a personal budget is something you should work on at the start of your journey to save more money. After all, you want to see where you’ve been spending money and where you can limit your spending. An easy way to start your personal budget is to look at your spending history for the months preceding and see where you can cut back.

Reduce Utility Bills

There are some bills that we can’t avoid, like a car payment or a mortgage, but there are some bills that are easy to reduce. Utility bills are based on usage, which means you can easily be more mindful with your consumption. Try and pay close attention to turning off lights when you leave the room and maybe shortening your shower from time to time. You could also shop around for different utility services, like internet or cable, to see if you can get a better price.

Seek Out Deals

Any person who is good at savings will tell you that they always keep an eye out for deals. Before making purchases, do your research to see if you can’t find the product that you’re looking for elsewhere. Another great way to cut back and save more money is to use coupons or discounts.

Stay Away from Impulse Buys

There are many purchases we make that are completely impulsive. If you notice those racks of gum, snacks, and random tidbits at checkout lines, then you’re face to face with impulse buys. If you didn’t already have the product before you got to the checkout, then you are simply wanting to make a purchase because it’s right there in front of you. The same could be said for pop-ups or side ads when you’re shopping online.

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3 Cheap Cities in the United States You Should Consider Moving To in 2023

In 2023, the cost of living will be higher than ever in many cities around the United States. It is an expensive time to be alive, from high rent and mortgage prices to increased prices of goods and services, including gas, utilities, and groceries. If you are finding it increasingly difficult to afford to live in your current city, it might be time to call up the professionals at Black Tie Moving and plan to relocate to another city. Keep reading to learn just a few of the cheapest cities in the United States that might be the perfect destination for those looking to save on the cost of living in the future.

Great Falls, Montana

Montana is one of the most beautiful states in the country. With breathtaking mountain views and endless opportunities to explore some of the most gorgeous natural wonders in all of the United States, many people dream of moving to Montana. The good news is that it is possible to make the dream of living in Montana a reality for those wanting to live on a tight budget, thanks to the low cost of living in beautiful cities like Great Falls. Located in the center of the state and just east of the Rocky Mountains, the cost of living in Montana is 14% lower than in other U.S. cities, making it the perfect destination for those on a budget.

Lima, Ohio

If you work in the fields of healthcare or manufacturing, you are likely familiar with this smaller Ohio town. In addition to being a hub for professionals in both industries, Lima is also a city with a meager cost of living in comparison to other similarly sized cities, with rent, utilities, and other living expenses costing 47% less than other American cities. In addition to the low costs of living, Lima also has three major universities located within city limits and has plenty of entertainment and activities for residents to do, despite its smaller size.

Rockford, Illinois

Located just 90 minutes from Chicago, Rockford is a midsized town known for its booming economy, low unemployment rates, and lower cost of living compared to other cities in the area. If you want to relocate within the midwestern United States and want to save a considerable amount of money on the total cost of living, Rockford might be your perfect destination.

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What to Know Before Buying Your First Car

There’s much to consider if you’re in the market for a new car. From budget and fuel efficiency to size and safety features, it can be tough to know where to start. But don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll share everything you need to know before buying your first car, so doing so can be as simple as a move with the help of the experts at Black Tie Moving Keep reading to get started!

Do your research – know what kind of car you want and what features are important to you

Taking the time to do some research and educate yourself on different car options is a great first step in finding your dream ride. Knowing what kind of car you are looking for and what features are most important to you will enable you to find the right fit, be it a luxury SUV or an economical hatchback. Familiarizing yourself with things like engine size, fuel economy, interior design, safety ratings, cost, and other important details can help narrow down your choices. Doing so can make the process of selecting the perfect car much easier and ensure that you get exactly what you need from your new set of wheels.

Consider your budget – don’t overspend on your first car, but make sure you can afford the payments

It can be hard navigating the process of buying your first vehicle, especially as most people have limited experience with larger purchases like a car. Considering the financial implications of investing in a car before you start shopping is important. Before looking at cars online or checking out lots, ensure you have a budget and stick to it. Don’t stretch too thin financially by overspending – try to stay within your means. Make sure you can comfortably afford the monthly payments on any car you may be interested in and that it fits within your budget. Of course, it’s ok to treat yourself once in a while – just make sure you know what you can afford!

Get a loan pre-approval from a bank or credit union before going to the dealership

For those serious about shopping for a new car or truck, getting a loan pre-approval from a bank or credit union is one of the smartest moves you can make. Doing so will allow you to shop around with confidence and bargaining power. A pre-approval loan helps estimate how much money you can borrow and at what interest rate, which is useful information for negotiations at the dealership. Prepare ahead of time by gathering your documents (pay stubs, address proof, tax returns) and understanding your credit score. Make sure that when you reach out to a bank or credit union, you’re dealing with knowledgeable professionals who speak your language and are prepared to answer any questions. This level of preparedness may take some extra effort, but it will offer a reward in terms of making an informed decision when that perfect car is within reach!

Take someone with you who knows more about cars than you do to help negotiate a good price.

When embarking on the task of buying a car, it pays to be prepared. Seeking out someone who is an expert when it comes to cars can be helpful in making sure you get the best deal possible. This person can help during both the purchase and negotiation process: they will be able to spot any issues that might affect the vehicle’s condition, ensure you are not overpaying for a good value and provide tips on how to negotiate the cost of a vehicle. Bringing someone who is knowledgeable about cars with you when shopping for one can provide peace of mind and help ensure you’re investing in a dependable car that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

Get a vehicle history report and have the car inspected by a mechanic before making the purchase

When purchasing a used car, it is important to do your research and be informed. Before signing the paperwork, make sure to get a vehicle history report. This will provide you with an overview of the car’s condition, including any accidents or major fixes, and can help you evaluate whether this car is right for you. Additionally, having the car inspected by a trained mechanic is advised: they will be able to identify any existing issues or hidden problems that could cause you expensive repairs down the line. Investing some time and energy into researching used cars beforehand will pay off in the long run – so don’t skip these extra steps before entering your new car!

Make sure you understand all the paperwork before signing anything!

Signing paperwork without fully understanding it can lead to disastrous consequences and should always be avoided. Take the time to review everything carefully before putting your name on the dotted line. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request clarification if something isn’t clear to you; you have a right to protect yourself and your best interests by making sure that all documents are completely understood. This is especially important when dealing with legally binding contracts, leases, mortgages, and any other agreements that can have lasting impacts on your day-to-day life. Ensuring complete comprehension before signing is absolutely essential for secure decision-making.

Final Thoughts

After reading this blog post, you now have all the information you need to help make an informed and wise decision when buying your first car. Do your research to determine what kind of car is best for you and what features are important. Carefully consider your budget, getting a loan pre-approval from a bank or credit union if necessary. Take someone with you who knows more about cars to help out with negotiations and get a vehicle history report before making any purchase. Most importantly, be sure to fully understand all the paperwork before signing anything! Buying your first car can seem like a daunting task at first but with careful planning, sensible decision making and perhaps a helping hand from someone knowledgeable, it can be an exciting experience.

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The Intelligent Investor vs A Random Walk Down Wall Street

I thought I would take a moment to compare and contrast two of the greatest investing books of our time – The Intelligent Investor and A Random Walk Down Wall Street.

The Intelligent Investor, written by Benjamin Graham in 1949, is a book that has stood the test of time and remains a must-read for any serious investor. Graham’s approach to investing is based on the principles of value investing, which involves seeking out stocks that are undervalued by the market and buying them with the expectation that their value will eventually be recognized by the market.

One of the key ideas in The Intelligent Investor is the concept of “Mr. Market,” a hypothetical person who represents the mood swings of the stock market. Graham advises investors to approach Mr. Market with a healthy skepticism, as he can be irrational and emotional at times. Instead of being swayed by Mr. Market’s mood swings, Graham advises investors to focus on a company’s fundamental data, such as its financial statements and management team, when deciding whether to buy or sell a stock.

Another important aspect of Graham’s approach is the idea of margin of safety, which involves buying stocks at a price that is significantly lower than their intrinsic value. This is meant to provide a buffer against potential declines in the stock market, as well as allow for the possibility of above-average returns if the stock’s value eventually rises.

A Random Walk Down Wall Street, written by Burton Malkiel in 1973, presents a different perspective on investing. Malkiel’s book is based on the idea of efficient markets, which suggests that it is impossible to consistently outperform the market because stock prices reflect all available information. According to Malkiel, the best way for investors to achieve good returns is to diversify their portfolio and hold a mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets.

One of the key arguments in A Random Walk Down Wall Street is that individual investors are at a disadvantage when it comes to outperforming the market. Malkiel argues that the vast amount of information available to professional investors, as well as their access to advanced tools and technology, makes it difficult for individual investors to keep up. Instead of trying to outsmart the market, Malkiel advises individual investors to simply hold a diversified portfolio and let the market work its magic.

There are some key differences between The Intelligent Investor and A Random Walk Down Wall Street. One of the main differences is their approach to risk management. Graham’s The Intelligent Investor advocates for a more active approach to risk management, through the use of analysis and diversification. In contrast, Malkiel’s A Random Walk Down Wall Street takes a more passive approach, suggesting that investors should simply hold a diversified portfolio and not try to outsmart the market.

Another difference between the two books is their view on the role of the investor. Graham’s The Intelligent Investor presents the investor as a disciplined and thoughtful individual who is capable of making informed decisions about which stocks to buy and sell. In contrast, Malkiel’s A Random Walk Down Wall Street suggests that the individual investor is at a disadvantage when it comes to outperforming the market, and that it is better to simply hold a diversified portfolio and let the market work its magic.

Ultimately, both The Intelligent Investor and A Random Walk Down Wall Street are valuable resources for investors. While they have some differences in their approach to risk management and the role of the investor, both books offer valuable insights and guidance for anyone looking to invest in the stock market. Whether you prefer Graham’s value investing approach or Malkiel’s efficient market perspective, there is something to be learned from both of these classics.

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Top 10 Best Investing Books of All Time

Investing is tough!!  Why?  Many people find investing to be a confusing and intimidating topic, but there are numerous resources available to help you learn the ropes. Reading books (or listening to audio books) written by experts in the field is one of the best ways to gain a solid understanding of investing.

The following are my top ten investing books on Amazon.com:

1. “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham: Considered by many to be the ultimate guide to investing, this classic book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their financial knowledge. Written by renowned investor Benjamin Graham, it offers practical advice on how to choose and manage investments, as well as a framework for evaluating the risk and potential returns of different assets.
2. “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley: This book offers a fascinating look at the habits and characteristics of successful investors. Based on extensive research, it debunks many of the myths about wealth and shows how ordinary people can build significant wealth through careful planning and disciplined saving and investing.
3. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert T. Kiyosaki: This best-selling book offers a unique perspective on investing and wealth building, with a focus on financial literacy and the importance of understanding how money works. Written by self-made millionaire Robert Kiyosaki, it offers practical advice and real-world examples to help readers build wealth and achieve financial freedom.
4. “The Bogleheads’ Guide to Investing” by Taylor Larimore: This book is a comprehensive guide to investing, written in an easy-to-understand style that is perfect for beginners. Based on the principles of Vanguard founder John Bogle, it offers practical advice on how to build a diversified portfolio and stick to a long-term investing plan.
5. “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin: This book offers a holistic approach to personal finance and investing, with a focus on aligning your financial choices with your values and goals. It offers practical advice on how to track your spending, pay off debt, and build wealth over time.
6. “The Little Book of Common Sense Investing” by John C. Bogle: Written by the founder of Vanguard, this book offers a straightforward approach to investing that emphasizes the importance of low-cost index funds and long-term planning. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to build a solid foundation for their investing strategy.
7. “The Simple Path to Wealth” by JL Collins: This one is a great resource for those looking to get started with investing. Written in a straightforward and easy-to-understand style, it offers practical advice on how to build wealth through low-cost index funds and long-term planning.
8. “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey: Here the author offers a comprehensive plan for getting out of debt and building wealth. Written by financial expert Dave Ramsey, it offers practical advice and real-world examples to help readers get their finances in order and achieve their financial goals.
9. “The Intelligent Asset Allocator” by William Bernstein: This book offers a detailed guide to asset allocation, which is the process of dividing your investments among different asset classes such as stocks, bonds, and cash. It offers practical advice on how to create a well-diversified portfolio and manage risk.
10. “The Four Pillars of Investing” by William J. Bernstein: This book offers a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and principles of investing. It covers topics such as asset allocation, portfolio construction, and risk management, and offers practical advice on how to create a long-term investing plan.

What are you waiting for?  You can gain a solid foundation in investing and learn the strategies and techniques used by experts to build wealth over time by reading these books!
Just picking up one or two of these books will have you on the path to financial freedom in no time.  Even for seasoned investing veterans, these books can help you take your investing skills to the next level.

Also, it goes without saying that you should check out my investing book – we should consider it #11 in this list:  Stock Market Investing for Newbies.  It is free, so snag it now!!

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