The Basics of Investing

Now in an updated fourth edition, this standard book on investing answers all the basic questions facing investors - especially what to buy, and when to buy it - and addresses the changes that have occurred in the last few years. There is practical advice on a wide range of investments, including market funds, options, futures, common stocks, and commodities. Even real estate, art works, and diamonds are covered. The author also gives advice on selecting a stockbroker or investment advisor. There is new material on the effects of increasing block trading by financial institutions, use of financial futures contracts to buy or sell financial assets (such as Standard and Poor's 500 Stock Index), and the expanded role of computer trading. In addition, there is thoughtful discussion of the causes and effects of the market crash in October 1987. The previous edition of this book was published in 1986.