2025-01-18:
Most important quote page 374:
“Keep your expectations in line with history. Historically stocks have returned between 6 and 7 percent after inflation over the last two centuries and have sold at an average P/E ratio of about 15.”
2023-09-05 update:
“One of the 10 best investment books of all time.” - the Washington post
I tend to agree. This book was first (1994-1998 just before a crash) published in a special time when stocks rose to all time highs, but is still very valuable as a guide, to sensible valuation of stocks.
Of all relevant asset classes, over 210 years, stocks have outperformed with 6,6% per year - after inflation.
Author: J. Siegel is a professor of Finance at Wharton.
Why read: “one of the ten best investment books of all time” The 5th edition and the most complete summary of historical trends in stock market returns (about 200 years of data). What impact? For a young person this is a must read because of the impact of time and compound interest on wealth.
Published by McGraw-Hill Education copyright 2014 by Jeremy J. Siegel.
One surprising fact is how insignificant big events are to the stock market long term. Wars are declared, 9/11, sudden drops in one day up to double digits, presidents are assassinated and trough all this the market moves relentlessly upward. Another takeaway is the “natural” rate of growth at about 6-7% over time. This is helpful to keep things in perspective. Naturally, stocks outperformed all other asset classes. And how to manage risk in relation to the expected higher return. Below some great summary rules to keep in mind.
1. Keep your expectations in line with history. Historically stocks have returned between 6 and 7 percent after inflation over the last two centuries and have sold at an average P/E ratio of about 15.
2. Stock returns are much more stable in the long run than in the short run. Over time stocks, in contrast to bonds, compensate investors for higher inflation. Therefore, as your investment horizon becomes longer, put a larger fraction of your assets in equities.
3. Invest the largest percentage of your stock portfolio in low-cost stock index funds.
4. Invest at least one-third of your equity portfolio in international stocks, currently defined as those not headquartered in the United States. Stocks in high-growth countries often become overpriced and yield poor returns for investors.
5. Historically, value stocks - those with lower P/E ratios and higher dividend yields - have superior returns and lower risk than growth stocks. Tilt your portfolio toward value by buying passive indexed portfolios of value stocks or, fundamentally weighted index funds.
6. Finally, establish firm rules to keep your portfolio on track, especially if you find yourself giving in to the emotion of the moment. If you are particularly anxious about the market, sit down and reread the first chapter of this book.