Sometimes, all the information in the world
will not prevent an investor from getting blindsided.

My stock holdings are from an inheritance...Shering-Plough, Nat City, Regions Bank and AM South. They are all blue chip, and capital gains would be so
great that I'm stuck for a while.

Dividends are approximately the rate of inflation. Several years ago, Shering (makers of Claritin, Coppertone, etc.) was censured for sloppy manufacturing practices in Mexico. After warnings from the FDA, they were fined $400 million. They also lost the patent on Claritin. The result was a 50% reduction of the dividend and a loss of 2/3 of the value.

Investment councelors (read insurance agents trying to sell annuities)are after commissions, so you really have to watch yourself.

Most of the friends I have with bucks to invest are banking on well-rated mutual funds and are in it for the long haul.

Playing the stock market is exciting but potentially devestating.

Don't bet the farm.

A life of crime is where the action is (just kidding!).

Good luck,

russ