The long and the short of it - John Kay

This book provides a guide to the complexities of modern finance, both the basics of investment and the sophisticated innovations of the modern financial system. It explains how twice in the last decade - in the new economy bubble and the credit crunch -- the follies of finance have threatened the stability of the world economy. It describes an environment that is complex and sophisticated, but greedy, cynical and self-interested. This book explains how to put your finances in the only hands you can confidently trust -- your own. You will learn everything you need to be your own investment manager; to recognise your investment options, and the institutions that will try to sell them to you; to understand the principles of sound investment and the research that supports these principles. Since much of your portfolio will be in stocks and shares, this book describes why some companies succeed and others fail, and how to distinguish fact and fiction in what companies tell you. John Kay explains many meanings people attach to the term risk; the tools professionals use to analyse risk and the different tools you need to manage risk for yourself. You will learn a practical investment strategy and how to implement it. This is the only book about finance and investment you need, and the one you must have.