Your Portfolio and "Old Ironsides"

Your Portfolio and "Old Ironsides"

Copyright © 2005 Kemberly Wardlaw

Tools 2 Invest

http://www.tools2invest.com/







The USS Constitution first ventured into the waters in

1798. From there she became an icon of durability and success.



In battle, the ship became known as "Old Ironsides" because the

shots fired from enemy ships seemed to bounce off her hull. She

may be best remembered for her service in the War of 1812.



Today, the loyal ship may be found resting quietly in the Boston

Harbor.



During the week of the Fourth of July, at the Boston Harborfest,

"Old Ironsides" makes her annual voyage down the harbor. This is

termed the "Turn-Around" cruise.



As investors, we can learn a lot from this old ship and its

history.



The first is longevity.



It is easy to be influenced by the short-term direction of the

market. A long-term perspective, if warranted, is best observed.

Of course if you have a short-term goal, aggressive investments

such as individual stocks may not be the best alternative.

However, if you have many years before retirement, you should

ignore the short-term volatility. As with "Old Ironsides," she

fought many a battle, but more than two hundred years later

remains afloat and above water.



A second point to remember, just like the ship, your portfolio

may require maintenance from time to time.



Positions may weaken and require your attention. Other positions

may grow to a point where profit taking is in order. As with the

strong currents of the seas, the market will take its direction

and you must adapt to it.



Finally, you should consider periodic reviews (i.e. monthly,

quarterly, annually) vital to your portfolio. Even the USS

Constitution has an annual appointment, with America, where she

makes her "Turn-Around" trip. This allows her to weather evenly

while at dock during the year and to keep her on active

commission. Onlookers, meanwhile, have the opportunity to view

all sides of the ship. You, too, should be familiar with all

areas of your portfolio.



This Fourth of July, when you reflect upon our independence,

remember to schedule a visit with your savings.







---------------------------------------------------------------------

Wardlaw's belief is that familiar life elements best illustrate

practical investment strategies; not typical investment

jargon. With that philosophy, the author assists financial

planners/advisors, brokerage firms, periodicals, and other

investment information syndicates create informative and

entertaining articles. For comments and questions, please

contact the author at mailto:tools2invest@yahoo.com or visit:

http://www.tools2invest.com.