Book Description

Stan Weinstein's Secrets For Profiting in Bull and Bear Markets reveals his successful methods for timing investments to produce consistently profitable results.

Topics include:

• Stan Weinstein's personal philosophy on investing
• The ideal time to buy
• Refining the buying process
• Knowing when to sell
• Selling Short
• Using the best long-term indicators to spot Bull and Bear markets

Odds, ends, and profits

Reviews (53)

An outstanding text on investing
The author's investment philosophy is based on the view that nearly all stocks experience four price stages:accumulation(stage 1), uptrending (stage 2), top area (stage 3), and downtrending (stage 4). Therefore, an investor, he says, has a high probability of success if he or she enters the cycle just before the stock moves to stage 2. Then he explains how to select a stock by simply studying its price/volume chart and how to time your entry. He addresses the issue of fundamental vs technical analysis. He explains that technical analysis is much superior over fundamental analysis because technical analysis incorporates future information that is not available to the average investor on a timely basis.
I found the book very clear and very helpful in selecting winning stocks with less stress. I read several books but this one is the best of them all.

So simple, it's obvious
Secrets for Profiting in Bull and Bear Markets is the best technical analysis book I have ever read. It leads the reader methodically through the buy/sell decisions from analyzing the stock to analyzing the group and analyzing the market. It teaches the best way to set buy-stops and sell-stops so that the stock is bought at the right price and then has room to move as long as it stays withing its allowable pattern; it establishes hard buy and sell rules that are not to be broken, and it reinforces all of the theory with appropriate real world examples. I found the book extremely easy to read, and even more importantly, easy to learn from. I highly recommend this book to all technical investors/traders.

Fail to see the 5 stars
I bought this book because of the high ratings in Amazon. I must say that I fail to see why it deserves such high ratings.

The book introduced one central theme - look for a big volume jump when the price crosses the 150-day moving average - and was repetitive after that. The book tried to discuss chart patterns (e.g. head-shoulders) but was pretty lame. The book did not mention anything about other market indicators such as MACD, RSI, etc. Were these indicators unimportant? Were these indicators not in fashion back in 1990? I was perplexed.

If you are looking for an introduction to technical analysis, there are better tutorials out on the web than this book (just google "technical analysis"). Save your money for your next investment.

Start Me Up
I read and re-read this book in the early nineties. It is an excellent book for those beginning to chart the market.

Great book for technical analysts
"The Tape Tells All" The Professional Tape Reader published by Stain Weinstein (the author of this book) As the title of Weinstein's suggests he analyzes stocks via technical analysis.

I believe this book and CAN SLIM can work together or you can use them separately. In fact I was surprised at the number of things that were similar in Secrets for Profiting... compared to How to make money in stocks. Things such as "Buy high, sell higher," ignoring P/E ratios, Relative strength, cutting losses etc... it was a very good book to confirm that the CAN SLIM methodology works.

There was one glaring difference between CAN SLIM and Weinstein's methods. Weinstein doesn't care if a stock is making money or not, in fact he just buys and sells based on the technical analysis of stock charts.

This book is full of quizzes charts, practical examples and easy to read definitions. And I believe this is a great addition to our bookshelves. I know it is a book I will refer back to.

Reed Floren ... Read more

Book Description

Investigate Your Options:Smart Strategies for Investors from the World's Leading Options Expert.

The volume of options trading on the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) has skyrocketed in recent years as investor sophistication has increased.But even the most sophisticated investors need instruction.And that's where options trading expert Anthony J. Saliba comes in, with his convenient book, The Options Workbook.

The second edition of his book The Options Workbook has been updated and reformatted, creating a larger, more convenient, and user friendly workbook style.The inclusion of interactive exercises, articles, and lessons which complement the curriculum on the ITI website also provide great value to investors who are just beginning to incorporate options into their investment strategies.

For more than 11 years, the International Trading Institute (ITI), founded by Anthony J. Saliba has trained professional options traders around the globe.ITI offers intensive hands on options workshops developed and taught by pit traders.As founder and chairman of ITI, Saliba is recognized as a pioneer in the derivatives market.He is a featured speaker at professional futures and options conferences and is often tapped for expert commentary by the financial media.Most recently, Saliba joint ventured with the Charles Schwab Corporation to form a screen based proprietary trading operation for trading options upstairs. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

One of the Best I've Come Across...
As a novice options trader, I have been searching for a book that not only clearly explains options but also does so in a practical "real-world" fashion. Saliba's book helped me to think like a trader. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to develop (or improve) his options trading game....

Excellent Book
"Clear, concise and practical. I learned more from this book about how to trade options than any other book I've come across. Tony Saliba and his staff at International Trading Institute are really first-rate educators"

Outstanding Value
This was the 3rd book I've read on Options.

It really helped solidify and ingrain the concepts/strategies into my brain.

Thank you to the authors.

The Perfect Place To Start
This book is just what I needed. I've been interested in options trading for a long time, but never found anything that could make sense out of how it works. This book did it for me. This guy, Tony Saliba, obviously knows his stuff - he didn't get profiled in "Market Wizards" for nothing. He earned his stripes through hard work and a proven plan that will work for anyone willing to learn and apply his fundamentals.

If you're interested in learning more about trading options, this is the place to start. Get the right info. from someone who has 'been there, done that' and take advantage of what he's learned along the way.

A Complete Insight Into The Options Workbook
If I had to use one word to describe this book, it would be "complete." With Market Wizard Tony Saliba as the author, I had very high expectations for the book, and yet, they were met. Compared to other options' books, such as McMillian's Options as a Strategic Investment or Natenberg's Option Volatility and Pricing, this relatively thin book packs more practical options trading information page for page than the two heavyweights above.

This book covers just about everything you'd like to know about options in an easy-to-understand and concise format. In this book, you'll find such basics as the definitions of short puts and calls and long puts and calls, to advanced options strategies, such as vertical spreads, butterflies, condors, ratio spreads and back spreads. There's also an informative final chapter on the evolution of the option trading industry. To help test your knowledge and understanding, and to prove that you weren't asleep, there are quizzes at the end of each chapter, along with a final examination at the end of the book. You can even have your exam results graded by Mr. Saliba's team.

Mr. Saliba has a a unique perspective of having traded professional for over 20 years. Unlike other well-known options traders, there is a mystique about Tony that makes this book unique. Tony is the only option trader who can say that actually earned over $100,000 every month for over six years. When all that you read in this book is framed in that context, you know the strategies you're learning are not just theoretical. They're real McCoy strategies that are being used everyday by Tony and his team of traders.

For traders that already know about options, the beginning of this book may seem somewhat obvious, as Mr. Saliba goes through a short introduction about the today's option trading environment. A rather lengthy glossary of options terminology follows, which I found somewhat awkward as glossaries are usually placed at the back of the book. I guess, though, this is a good thing for beginners.

Each option strategy from a long call to long butterfly is explained in an easy-to-comprehend manner. It almost feels as if you were at a seminar. He explicitly tells you the ideal market conditions for each strategy, why it used, what it accomplishes and then walks you through an example. He also explains important points such as the breakeven stock price of each strategy and maximum profit and loss characteristics.

My favorite part of the book was the section on the "Greeks," or option analytics. If you pick up any other options book and read through the section on the "Greeks," you'll most likely find complicated mathematical equations and hard-to-understand academic jargon. You won't find that in this book, as Mr. Saliba explains the "Greeks" from a real trader's point of view. He will clearly tell you how these factors affect the option's price and how it will affect your position.

If you read the book and do the quizzes, you can't help but to learn more about options. For the beginner in options, this book is more than a workbook; it's really a manual. For the intermediate or seasoned option trader, it provides a great review of fundamental concepts and strategies.

I believe that no other options books can convey the subtleties of real options trading for this reason. You may learn the mechanics elsewhere, but it's the practical application that I believe truly makes this book stand out of the crowd. ... Read more

Book Description

The Grangaard Strategy equips retirees-and those contemplating retirement-with 12 powerful principles for managing assets during every phase of retirement, including the crucial pre-retirement years.

Based on a groundbreaking new asset management theory presented by renowned financial educator Paul Grangaard, this book explains how to maintain inflation-proof income throughout retirement, without significantly depleting retirement assets. Readers will learn to:

€ Replace paychecks with retirement Income Ladders
€ Calculate how much they can afford to put into higher-return stock market investments
€ Avoid the worst advice in the financial markets
€ Understand compounding, investment returns, and holding periods
€ Take advantage of tax-deferral and protect retirement income against inflation
€ Prepare a flexible plan for dealing with the unexpected
€ Confidently choose the best financial advisor ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Income For Life
Let's face it. People who take time to read books about investing are looking for an edge! Something different that gives them a better chance at success. The Grandgaard Strategy provides that edge. While most investment books all key in on the same objective, accumulating money, this book teaches you how to spend it, and how to spend it without running out! If income during retirement is your objective, you have to read this book! In the 21 years I have worked with Florida retirees, I have never read a book which better answers the question, "How can I best structure my investment portfolio during retirement for income & growth?" If you're getting ready to retire, or if you're already there, you have to buy this book!

Nothing New Here!
What do you people see in this book?!

The book is filled with the standard rules about investing for retirement: invest for the long haul, use compound growth, sell assets when they are high--duh! And all of this is the "Grangaard Strategy?" (OK, so the only slightly valuable advice is: plan to live longer than average.) The book is lacking in any real substance and comes across as a pitch to get you to seek further help from a Grangaard financial planner.

Informercial in book form and not much else
Buy this book to see how someone can effectively mount a very good marketing program. But don't expect to find anything other than platitudes when it comes to financial planning. The material is quite elementary.

I'm guessing somewhat here but I'll bet that Mr. Grangaard's approach to building his business includes:
- Go onto TV and sell his book.
- Load the book review input with 5 stars.
- Get the book buyers to sign up for Grangaard trained financial planners.
- Sell the poor saps that to go these planners Grangaard sponsored products.

Don't waste you money or your time on this.

Forget it !
This book not only is worthless but actually it is risky ,to say the least;if you follow the recommendations of the author.
It reminds me of that famous book in the 80's "No Money Down",that made people (naive people) believe that not only could you buy real state with no money down and no credit ,but that actually you could walk away with money in your pocket!!!
Anyhow,I read at least 1 or 2 books a month on investment as well as on retirement;this book only enphasizes that you have to get a financial planner to "survive" ;obviously, the guy is a CPA himself,other than that,it is plain rubbish.There are tons of better and more informative books out there.

Invest for success with confidence...
This book lays the groundwork for a bridge to financial freedom upon retirement. The twelve principles outlined in this text have worked for me and should work for all. Too many financial planners do not speak to their customers... this book clearly and concisely outlines a road map that will allow me to live comfortably through retirement. I'm recommending this book to my financial planner. ... Read more

Book Description

Fund manager Joel Greenblatt has been beating the Dow (with returns of 50 percent a year) for more than a decade. And now, in this highly accessible guide, he's going to show you how to do it, too. You're about to discover investment opportunities that portfolio managers, business-school professors, and top investment experts regularly miss -- uncharted areas where the individual investor has a huge advantage over the Wall Street wizards. Here is your personal treasure map to special situations in which big profits are possible, including:

* Spin-offs * Restructurings * Merger Securities
* Mergers * Rights Offerings * Recapitalizations
* Bankruptcies * Risk Arbitrage

This is a practical and easy-to-use investment reference, filled with case studies, important background information, and all the tools you'll need. All it takes is a little extra time and effort -- and you can be a stock market genius. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A must read for any advance investor.
Don't be turned off by the book's funky title. "You can be astock market genius" is actually one of the few investment classicsout there. The book does not deal with everyday investment jargons. (Low PE, high growth rate, etc.) Instead, it focuses on rare special corporate events. And how investors may profit by looking through these small cracks which the greater investment community often ignored and misunderstood. Although I doubt many individual investors will be able to fully utilize what the author suggested. (It is a difficult proccess which required substantial background in related areas.) These corporate events are often quite unique in each individual case. And some of them carry tremendous risk. (eg. bankruptcy) Yet, if use properly. These methods can dramatically magnify one's return. (For instance, the section where he discussed how investors can use Leaps in turnaround situations.) Even for those readers who do not attempt to participate in special situation investing, Mr. Greenblatt's logic and methods are very beneficial in shaping investment decisions in general.

ONE OF THE BETTER BOOKS ON INVESTING
I read stock market investment books like some cooks read cookbooks-- for a new idea that can change the recipe and make the outcome a better success. I received several good ideas from this book. It is a keeper. I would also recommend the three (or or there more?) books by R. Max Bowser who has an unique system where he even guarantees $5,000 if the reader does not make a profit using his system. Mr. Bowser states that he has refined his investment system on an ongoing basis (adding improvements) over the past 20 years (Take a glance at Mr. Bowser's book, "Guaranteed Profits With Small Stocks"). There are so many good investment books out there and the serious investor should keep up with the new books to have a stream of fresh new ideas.

One of the Best Stock Investing Books There Is
Greenblatt does a good job explaining spinoffs, mergers, bankruptcies, etc. and how they can be create market-beating investments. He presents data backing up his theories, and also provides many good examples of finding such investment situations. He also explains the criteria for what qualifies a good risk/reward ratio in these types of investments.

However, one thing I want to point out is that you have to definitely do some research on each investment if you want to truly put Greenbaltt's put methods into efective practice. If you are willing to go through SEC filings and do thoroguh research on each investment you make, then the type of investing found in this book might be right for you.

Phenomenal
In a world filled with mutual fund managers who make millions for underperforming the S&P over the duration of their careers, students of investing should always ask to see a teacher's audited investment results before listening to a word.

Joel Greenblatt produced 50%+ annual returns over ten years. To put this superlative performance in context, it is better than Warren Buffet's. Quite simply: Greenblatt is an investing master and his teachings are worthy of special consideration.

The pleasure of this book is its simplicity. The kind of rigorous homework Greenblatt suggests is not easy to do in practice, but this is a key reason why it can be such fruitful work to do. Greenblatt's logic is driven by simple, fundamental and powerful truths: a) investing only in your best few ideas tends to lead to a higher quality portfolio, b) doing work where others are not contributes to an investment edge and c) there is statistical evidence to show that value investing and special situations outperform the broader market over time.

The book is filled with humor, common sense and a lot of investing wisdom. Greenblatt has opened the door, students must walk through it themselves...

strong buy
This book definitely gets a Strong Buy recommendation from me. It is by far the best investing guide I have seen. It is very imformative, and fun to read as well. ... Read more

Book Description

One of the most highly regarded independent investment research firms, Ned Davis Research, shares not only their views on grave near-term economic risks and how the investment world works, but more importantly, they provide the tools, tactics, and strategies necessary for manaing risks and making money. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Complete Insight Into Being Right or Making Money
Words of wisdom and a common sense approach to profiting in the markets is what you'll get from this slice of Ned Davis Research. This is a revision to the 1991 edition that contains updated information and a take on the year 2000 bubble. Seven chapters of insight are packed into this coffee table-style book, with loads of color-coded charts and aphorisms. If you're looking to obtain a grasp of the common traits that have made the monsters of money management successful, this book is worth your while.

Maybe you've seen Ned Davis on CNBC or CNN; he's often quoted in Barron's and The Wall Street Journal; he's been in the business for over thirty years and has a lot to offer. He's also a good study of the old pros, such as George Soros and Peter Lynch. From them he has gathered four traits that are key to maintaining success. They are: Objectivity, Flexibility, Discipline and Risk Management. Hard to argue here.

With the four common traits of successful money managers as a base, the book brings the Ned Davis Research Group's insights and experience to the table. A dissection of what contributed to the stock market bubble of 2000 and a no-nonsense look into what is moving our economy right now are key features to this edition. The economy model building process and analyses of stock and bond market timing are also discussed in depth. Though the content-type is academic, I found the commentary to be refreshingly concise and practical.

According to Ned Davis, the business of speculating is largely psychological. Great quotes and facts about crowd psychology are influential for understanding the markets. As he states:

"In case we are being swept up by the crowd or in case our own reality becomes badly distorted, what we need is an unbiased, objective standard that will weigh the evidence and pass judgment devoid of emotionalism."

The overall composition of this book is tuned more for a position trader rather than a pure day trader. You won't find exercises to hone your entry skills, but the wisdom and market insight are like vitamins that will keep you focused and on-target for profits. No matter what your trading goals are, this book will keep you pointed in the right direction.

An encyclopedia of useful information and desktop companion

"Being Right Or Making Money" is like getting a pro level college course on how to stay one step ahead of the stock and bond markets, and is destined to be a desktop companion for any serious investor, especially those whose foray into online trading has left them at a disadvantage after the post bubble and Enron days.

This is a place where many might have started, as it provides an excellent foundation for market analysis and the formation of a life time investing plan. The book's emphasis is not on how to make a fortune day trading, but rather it teaches investors how to make sense out of information that truly forecasts the future of the market.

There are several chapters on how to create asset allocation models in both bonds and stocks. And it is here that investors will find hidden jewels such as how to make sense out of contrarian opinion and how to analyze the stock market's momentum.

The book is written with a general audience in mind, and has great long term indicator charts that clearly illustrate how and when the indicators work, as well as the results of their buy and sell signals. Highly recommended for those who are truly serious about investing, and those who are looking for better forecasting tools...

Excellent book on quantitative analysis of stocks/markets
This is easily one of the best books I've ever read on quantitative techniques for stock market analysis. The first two chapters (by Ned Davis) gives his view on what moves the markets. It's a treasure chest of ideas ... some old, but also a few new ones (at least to me).

The rest of the chapters are written by staff members of NDR. The book contains several timing models with historical performance. While some of the models rely on data not easily obtained, the breadth of ideas is impressive.

Highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Confused about the stock market?
Then this book will answer your questions. The author explains, in simple, clear, straight forward and down-to-earth language, exactly how the stock market works and why, and how and why (and when) to buy stocks.

It's the only book I've ever read that straightened out the stock market mess and made sense of it for me, enabling me to gain a grip on the information needed to make rational decisions with my own portfolio!

If you've ever wanted solid, no-nonsense information that would enable you to truly begin to understand the stock market and its workings, written in a delightful form that utilizes all the tech talk in a manner so that it becomes clear as you read it, then order this book today!

Primo Primer for the Incipient Investor
I first read this book more than ten years ago after a particularly rough day at work. I thought "There must to be an easier way to make money." Instead of going straight home I headed to the Boston Barnes and Noble in Downtown Crossing. There I saw this book. For someone who has no idea what the stock market is or how it works this is an excellent book. Though the prose could be a little dry, it provides a basis on what stocks and bonds are, it differentiates between stocks and preferred stocks, it explains why you need a broker to buy most stocks. You definitely should read this before attempting to read more classical investment books because the terminology used can be daunting. This book also complements Tobias' "Still the Only Investment Book You'll Ever Need"

Good finance book
If you ever think to yourself that why didn't you a few years older and know more ?? This is a book for you. It's a history of the finance world and tells what has happened before you was born :) Most important this book really teaches you how to buy stocks.

My favorite book, so i give ***** :)

EQ

Great book, well illustrated and a Must Read!!
This is a great book to understand stocks and debt instruments market. The author explains the various stages in the growth of a company using his fictional Pocket Pole Company and his writing style is lucid. This is a book dealing with a considerable number of terms and Hecht's examples helps one in easily grasping the concept.

The book is big, more than 400 pages long and covers various investment techniques using Stocks, Bonds, Treasury Bonds, Mutual Funds and also discusses the making of a stock market, guidelines to follow while investing etc. It is really a wonderful read for anyone interested in understanding money flow and how corporations are born.

Personally, I enjoyed reading about Pocket Pole and the author's comparison of Pocket Pole with companies like IBM and Walt Disney. It is amazing to note that this book is around half a century old and the concepts haven't really changed.

One thing I didn't like about is that the book needs to be updated, and should discuss the Enron and the recent stock market crash. Louis touches upon incidents of 1994 and I feel that a revision is very much due!

Overall, a great book if you are new to the investment market.

Not a good book at all
This book seems to be a good eye catcher because of the color and the simplicity of the title. It definitely caught my attention to buy it. Was I sorry it did. This book provides nothing whatsoever. Everything is very straighforward and commonsense unless you are a five-year-old, then yes, you should buy this book. You ever get this feeling when you are reading a book that it seems you are reading a whole lot but not getting any information out of it? This is exactly the feeling I was getting while reading this book. If you truly want to KNOW about investing then get "A Random Walk Down Wall Street". This book summarizes what investing and the stock market is all about and the writing is superb. ... Read more

Book Description

The option day trading blueprint you've been waiting for!

Options day trading is no walk in the park. But it is your most potentially profitable way to take advantage of the day-trading phenomenon. Put the odds in your favor with Demark on Day DeMark and Thomas DeMark, Jr. Forget complicated formulas! Instead, this nuts-and-bolts guide gives you a set of option trading techniques, indicators, and rules to limit risk without sacrificing profit. You're shown how to:

*Select, design, and build your own highly-personalized trading model
*Use filters and screens to select optimal option trading candidates
*Identify low-risk entry points in up, down, or even sideway markets

You get savvy tips for buying puts or calls based on market, industry, or underlying security ù even get a phone number to get a free, updated TD Indicators demonstration disk.For three decades, traders using breakthroughs like the DeMark Indicators have made fortunes. Now it's your turn! ... Read more

Reviews (64)

Excellent original ideas
I have folllowed the markets for years. A friend of mine recommended I purchase this book. I am skeptical of system trading. I was intrigued by the credentials of the authors. These did not appear to be people who needed the money. Rather it was apparent that they truly wanted to share their creativity and reearch. Having read the book 2 times and the second half of the book 2 more times, my conclusion is correct. This book is a value and a significant contribution to the writings of how markets behave and how to use indicators to trade successfully. I recommend this book to serious traders and investors.

best book on day trading available
I've read most if not all books on day trading written the last couple of years. Most address the mechanics and processes concerned with day trading and neglect to provide what is most essential and that is techniques for identifying trading candidates and how to implement these into viable trading systems. Mssrs. DeMarks' book present s aplethora of worthwhile approaches. It's certainly not turnkey but what do you expect for the price of the book--the holy grail? One thing is certain the methods are original and can be dissected and applied piecememal to methods I have previously applied in the past. For anyone sincerely interested in day trading stocks, futures, or options, this book is a necessity.

Pleasntly surprised for two reasons
I wrote reviews today on the other two sites that had DeMark books for sale. I did not know this book was available. I told my trading partner about this discovery and he admonsihed me that this book has been available for a few years and that the book was even bette than the authors' two previous ones if for no otherreason is that the author's son helped iun simplifying the presntation. My trading partner told me to assign a 5 star rating and to recommend it highly. I am doing that now.

These are excellent trading ideas
I am a trader on the Chicago Exchange. I have also conducted commodity and stock trading schools. The ideas I have acquired from both the DeMarks are the curriculum of my classes. Originally, before being introduced to the DeMark methodolgy I relied upon the same trading techniques as all other traders. What convinced me to try the Demark techniques was the fact that someone told me that DeMark was the originator of a few of the all time trading favorite oscillators such as RSI. I wanted to know why he abandoned this indicator. It now makes sense to me--he has developed more accurate and sensitive trading tools that are more responsive to the rhythm of the market. They are indeed more valuable and help me and my students in trading.

This book can make me profitable.
I develop trading systems and have found many rich trading ideas described in the various chapters. I do not trade options often and elected to skim over the 1st half of the book. The back half has ideas for intraday trading as well as longer term trading. Al though the author does not serve these important ideas on a platter to a trader emphasizing thir relevance to successful trading, almost all discussions are packed with menajngful information and trading ideas that I can apply and test easily.
Bottom line: if you are looking for a black/whir turn-key systmeatic approach to trading, this book does not go that far. However, what this book does provide is a plethora of risch, new trading ideas that will definitely improve timing of trades. ... Read more

Book Description

If you’re like the majority of the estimated 12 million employees in the U.S. who have stock options as a key component to their compensation packages, you have a vague notion, at best, of how options work and what they can mean to your financial well being. What’s the vesting schedule for your shares and how will their strike price be set? What type of stock option grant will you receive, an ISO (incentive stock option) or an NQSO (non-qualified stock option)? What tax rules apply to your option program? Your financial future could depend on your knowing the answers to these and other questions regarding your company’s stock option plan.

Confused by all the brouhaha surrounding stock options? Let expert Alan Simon demystify this often-confusing investment vehicle for you. Featuring clear explanations of how your stock options might make you money—or not—this friendly guide fills you in on what you need to know to:

• Understand different types of stock options
• Read and find traps in your stock option agreement
• Evaluate the pros and cons of company investment vehicles
• Assess vesting schedules and tax laws
• Tap Web resources

Simon demystifies the jargon, rules, and tax consequences of stock options. He provides a realistic picture of what to expect from your options, and he helps you see past the hype to understand what your employer is really offering. Important topics covered include:

• What you need to know before accepting a compensation package that includes options
• Developing a stock option philosophy and clear-cut goals
• Knowing whether you’re being treated fairly by your company
• Making sense of the language of stock options agreements
• Getting a handle on key restrictions on how you exercise your options
• Stock option valuation
• Tax rules and how they apply to different types of options
• How stock options can be affected by changes at your company

Stock Options For Dummies is the only guide you’ll need to get the most out of this important investment vehicle. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

This is not what I was looking for.
I was looking for a "dummies" book on options trading (puts, calls, volatility, etc.) so I ordered it. What I got was a comprehensive review of the ramifications of owning stock options issued by the company that employs you. In short, I felt like a dummy for not researching further before purchase. Don't make the same mistake I did. There is a silver lining, though. I promptly repackaged the book in the shipping box that I received it in and sold it through Amazon, recouping almost all of my original cost. If you have any books you don't need or want, I wholeheartedly endorse Amazon's used book marketplace. I gave it 5 stars because of this experience, and the fact that it is another top-notch example from the excellent Dummies series, just not what I was looking for. Incidentally, if you're looking for what I was looking for originally, you can't go wrong with anything Larry McMillan has written.

Well rounded discussion on every facet of options
A well rounded discussion on almost every facet of options, from how to understand the legal implications of the stock option plan to taxation. Simon explains preIPO, IPO, lockup periods, blackout periods, Rule 144 stock in detailed and desciptive ways. The chapters on taxation give an excellent overview - even of the 83b election and is probably sufficient for most. For more comprehensive discussion and tax strategy read Pastore's book.

Every option-holder should read this book!
By far, the best, most thorough, and most honest book on stock options I've ever read. Even though other books (such as Pastore and Thomas) cover taxes on stock options in more detail, the author definitely provides more than enough information, including considerations I've never seen elsewhere - ordinary income tax and AMT implications of working in multiple states, for example. And he covers the dreaded AMT trap of ISOs with detailed scenarios, better and easier to understand than I've seen anywhere else. But by far, this book's greatest value is in the author's no-holds-barred discussion of - as he puts it in one of the chapter headings - the good, the bad, and the ugly of stock options, including an entire chapter on stock option agreements and what to watch for. Like most Dummies books, there is humor and sarcasm, but the author doesn't overdo it; it just makes the book extremely readable. Even those who have had stock options in the past - whether or not they made money or not - will find value in the author's fresh perspective and post-crash look at just about everything about options.

Well written, but flawed
This book has great layout, good writing, and simple presentation. Unfortunately, it also has a number of technical erorrs about how stock options work, as well as an excessive focus on options in pre-IPO comanies (most employees with options do not work for pre-IPO companies, or even technology companies). ... Read more

Book Description

Your one-stop guide for all you need to know about the ins and outs of planning a successful retirement -- it's never too early to start. Indside the Retirement Bible you'll find:

• How to play the retirement savings game -- putting together and sticking to a retirement check list
• Tips on cutting through the clutter of financial advisors -- your best sources for finding them, the questions to ask them, matching their services with your needs
• The inside scoop on private money managers -- should you hire your own?
• 401K contribution strategies -- getting the 401K you deserve, escaping a potential 401K nightmare, and alternatives for your 401K when you leave a job
• Stock picking 101 -- how stocks measure up, value versus growth, mutual funds, and new alternatives
• Establishing trusts -- ten steps in creating a great trust
• and much, much more!

Reviews (15)

This book's a winner!
LYNN O'SHAUGHNESSY is a terrific wirter who has written a book that combines remarkable readability with comprehensive coverage of financial aspects of retirement. As in her prior book THE UNOFFICIAL GUIDE TO INVESTING and her most recent book THE INVESTING BIBLE, she puts her journalist's skills to good use having thoroughly researched this subject and written for a spectrum of readers ranging from those first approaching the subject to those already quite sophisticated.

While lots of others have written about calculating how much you need to have (or to save) for retiremeent and about stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, she covers these beautifully but also covers oft neglected topics: finding the right financial experts, investing and spending strategies during retirement, a nice introduction to estate planning and trusts, managing the family dynamics of inheritance, and the role of charitable giving in retirement income and estate planning. She has also included a thorough and well researched "resource guide" listing by topics the best of names, addresses, phone numbers, and website addresses for further help and study.

Just how good is this book? Good enough that we've given it as a present to good friends who also hope to one day retire comfortably.

This book is a winner!
I just love this book. Other books on retirement just seem so shallow. This one is truly comprehensive, and it is written in a way that I understand! The part that sold me was in the acknowledgements, when the author jokes that this book is big enough to be a lethal weapon. The Retirement Bible is the perfect resource for anybody who dreams about retiring someday, which should cover just about everybody. And Lynn O'Shaughnessy certainly has a way with words.

Lives Up to the High Standards of Its Namesake
Introduction. Aiming to be a one-stop source for all things retirement related, the Retirement Bible largely succeeds in accomplishing its goal. Presenting sound and authoritative advice in a well-organized package, the book is appropriate for anyone at any age who is interested in planning for that important yet often neglected milestone in life: retirement.

Traditional retirement plans. The book begins by covering the media-ignored pair consisting of Social Security and pension plans. Despite the chapter title of "Gambling on Social Security," the author takes an overall optimistic perspective on the matter, arguing that the system will still be around a century from now due to political forces. That being said, the recommendation is wisely made that the rising generation's "best strategy is to plan for less." On the subject of pensions, the author chastises the media for rarely mentioning the topic, even though almost half of private-sector workers still have them.

Finding expert advice. The book next presents--in rather excruciating detail--a full three chapters on locating and using financial experts of various kinds. While the information is essentially useful, I felt the subject could have been covered in a single, pithy chapter. However, the author presented a well-formulated case for taking advantage of the experts. For most services, the author's apparent bias is toward the CFP designation, and fee-only planners are recommended.

Common retirement vehicles. With a solid foundation to build upon, the retirement vehicles themselves are introduced, starting with 401(k)s. I particularly enjoyed the section titled "The Six Worst 401(k) Mistakes." It presented in no uncertain terms the landmines that can explode in one's face when dealing with this common retirement plan. Additionally, a great review was provided of the standards that a high quality 401(k) should meet.

When it came to IRAs, I felt the author assumed too much foreknowledge on the part of her readers. She talked a great deal about IRAs but never quite said what they are. Likewise, the explanation of IRA rollovers was given too early and was confusing. I also found the separate chapter solely devoted to inherited IRAs to be unnecessary, overly specialized, and ultimately fruitless.

Stocks and mutual funds. The Retirement Bible beautifully explains stock picking and its related jargon. It is mildly conservative and declares that market timing is a waste of time. In short, the advice is to "Buy and Hold and Hold and Hold." In one of the author's shining moments, she gives the best explanation I have ever read of how economic factors like interest rates and inflation affect the stock market. She further acknowledges that individual stock investing is not for everyone; nevertheless, thoughtful advice is provided on creating a balanced portfolio this way.

As one thus might guess, the author raves about mutual funds. In particular, she expounds upon the virtues of index funds many times throughout the book. Mutual funds and other investments with high expense ratios are her greatest enemy, it seems, and on their heels are unnecessary taxes.

Bonds. This area has always confused me, and the Retirement Bible was perfect on this point. It began at the ground level, stating that "a bond is an IOU." The book pointed out that guessing interest rate movements is essentially pointless and recommended laddering bonds. Rather than being content to leave bonds as the only fixed-income investment to choose from, the author also wisely discussed alternatives.

Withdrawal tactics. In a smart move, the author sets up realistic expectations for her readers in saying that many assumptions must be made in planning for cashing in one's retirement funds. Unfortunately, to mitigate the uncertainty of retirement planning she goes overboard in repeatedly extolling the virtues of Monte Carlo simulations at least three times throughout the book.

General comments. As alluded to above, the author's overall approach to investing is to be risk averse without being overly constrained. "Trying to outsmart the market is futile," she proclaims. While the subject is certainly debatable, I for one concur with her feelings. Likewise, I agree with the constant touting of index funds as the major core of a person's portfolio; I will follow this advice.

Despite the reality that the author does "take sides" in certain instances, one of the Retirement Bible's strongest points is its simple and unbiased approach. In fact, the constant barrage of "Advantages of..." and "Disadvantages of..." sections almost becomes a cliché as one nears the book's end.

As also mentioned earlier, the author sometimes assumes too much foreknowledge of her readers. In the chapter called "A Primer on Trusts," for example, the fundamental definition of the term trust is never provided. Additionally, some terminology is simply used in a confusing manner. The terms bond and fixed-income investment are frequently used as synonyms even after the author has just finished explaining how utilities, convertible securities, preferred stock, and REITs are types of fixed-income investments.

Another interesting quirk I noticed about the book is a slight but noticeable bias toward recommending certain companies over and over. Specifically, these were Vanguard, Fidelity, and T. Rowe Price. While the ostensible reason for this practice is that these institutions are low-cost leaders in their field, I still found myself getting the feeling at times that other companies out there had to be offering some useful services, as well.

Finally, the most major suggestion I would make to the author is to include a chapter that "ties things together," so to speak. At times, one feels as if stocks, funds, bonds, IRAs, 401(k)s, and the like are being discussed within a vacuum. I would have greatly enjoyed a chapter that brought the concepts together in a more meaningful manner than what is already provided.

Conclusion. Though not a perfect book, the Retirement Bible for the most part lives up to its name. It covers a wide range of subjects while presenting simple, easy-to-follow advice that likely fits well with the risk profile of the average investor. It is, therefore, a fitting bible for retirement planning.

O'Shaughnessy Bibles are Must-Haves
Lynn O'Shaughnessy has written two books, 'The Investing Bible' and 'The Retirement Bible,' that complement each other and provide the reader with all of the vital information necessary for making sound financial decisions. The books are written with such clarity and consistency that I have discarded five others on similar subjects because they could not compare with these. I've given copies of both books to my daughter who has joined a surgery practice and needs to become more financially astute. I hope the author will update these two superb texts periodically.

Re-Review of my original rating of this book
I may have erred in my previous commentary about exchange traded funds. They may, in fact, be "open-ended" funds, meaning that they trade at the net asset value at any instant in time during a trading day, rather than at at a premium or discount as closed end funds do. If I have erred, MEA CULPA! Since I have no proof that my original comment is valid, I've upped my rating on this "bible" to 5 stars. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In a wise and witty manner, brothers David and Tom Gardner, founders of the multimedia investment company The Motley Fool, impart their investment strategies to the adolescent masses with The Motley Fool Investment Guide for Teens. In eight teen-friendly sections, the brothers Gardner and writing partner Selena Maranjian demystify the stock market by describing and defining mutual funds, banking practices, IRAs, and drip investing. The authors also include numerous quotes from money-savvy adolescents who detail some of their rookie market moves in an attempt to help their peers steer clear of similar mistakes. Parents will approve of the strongly worded sections on credit card debt and the costly financial and physical tolls a smoking habit takes on both wallet and health. In fact, parents would do well to pick up this investment primer for their own edification, if they find the stock market a confusing and chaotic business. Loaded with worksheets, helpful Web sites on a variety of financial subjects, a concise glossary, and a comprehensive index, this is one investment guide that both generations can and will turn to again and again.

Traditionally, teens have been known for having a hard time seeing the proverbial Big Picture. But the Gardners respond admirably to this characteristic, by constantly emphasizing the fortune teens can make in the future by investing now and reminding them that investing money is the least labor-intensive way to make more of the desirable green stuff. A perfect gift for the burgeoning Warren Buffet in your life. (Ages 12 and older) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A book they will read
Although it contains some information that my daughter thought was unrealistic, like the amount she should be able to save each week, she thought the book had some great ideas. I especially liked that they didn't talk down to the teenagers yet told them about the true financial cost of smoking, the good use of credit cards, ATMS and the fiancial mistakes many people make. A good book that tells it to them straight in a format that they will read.

Getting Closer to Financial Independence
I thought this was an excellent book for teenagers. It not only shows them how to intelligently invest, but it also provides funny examples of what not to do in the stock market. I think it would be an excellent asset for people in their early twenties as well because it gives a great deal of advice on money management. In college, most students are not "rolling in the dough", so why not invest what little "dough" you do have and make some money for the future. It can also persuade kids to become healthier because the book outlined what cigarette smoking can do to a person's wallet. As if cigarette smoking isn't already bad enough. I also found the worksheets within the book extremely helpful, and I will continue to use them as guides as I take my first steps towards financial independence.

Good Book for Teens Who Really Wanna Know It All
After reading the other reviews here about this book, I decided to go out and get it myself. I wanted to know everything there was about money after I've seen my parents struggle with things like credit card debt. I was very happy with the book! It teaches everything from the ever complicated stock investing, to checks and credit cards. The only thing bad about it was some of it was harder to understand at times. And that some of the topics got boring at times. But other than that, I was very pleased with the book. It taught me all I needed to know about money.

Excellent advice covering all teen money matters
This book offers intelligent and very well supported advice for teens and their money. I liked the book so much I finished it in a few days (234 pages), and I'm going to buy it for my brother for Christmas. This book offers a wealth of financial advice for teens, not just what to look for when investing stocks. It really emphasizes knowing why you are making certain moves, not just what moves to make, which is great. All in all, the book manages to teach a fairly large amount of information without bogging the reader down with financial jargon (and it has a glossary in the back anyways).

great book
The Motley Fool investment guide for teens is a great book to buy not only if your a teen but also if you're in college. It teaches you how to save for your retirement. most people don't think about that until there thirtys.
I rented this book from the library and now my mom's getting it for me for Christmas so i can read it again ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great Book to reach financial freedom
Tax lien are among the safest the most profitable investment tools available today and this is a great book to learn how to invest profitably.

Regarding the author reviewing her own book, all I can say is what's wrong with that? At least she used her real name in reviewing her own book and not an alias that Hupalo guy does.

The book is great but inevesting in tax liens is even better. Use this book to learn how.

The information in this book is useless.
I'm not the type of person to write a review, but I feel it is necessary to warn others that this book is absolutely useless. Half of volume 2 just repeats volume 1 and nearly all of the book is filled with forms and inspirational messages. I don't need a self help book! I just wanted some factual information about tax liens. I feel like a sucker after wasting over $60 on both these books.

Well Worth the Investment
I think the reader from Vernon, NY missed the point. The author was not trying to review her own book. She was merely trying to tell readers that there is more value in the book that cannot be seen on the cover. I just bought the book and the first ten minutes of reading it I knew I hit a goldmine of information. There are companies out there that would charge thousands of dollars for information that you can find in this book.

Author reviews own book?
Why would the author review her own book????? ... and 5 stars?

Need to find Volume 1 as well
This was a very good book (It comes as part of a 2-volume set). Listed here is volume 2. It would help to either get a hold of volume 1 or purchase the author's other tax lien book, "What your Bank Doesn't want you to know..." I have both volumes AND "What your Bank..." They have given me a roadmap to investing in Tax Liens and Deeds that has helped me to make money and begin amassing a real estate portfolio. For this amount of money I'd say they're well worth the investment. ... Read more

Book Description

"One of the ten best investing books of all time."--The Washington Post

One of investing's most celebrated icons updates his classic work to reflect today's world and markets

In this long-awaited and eagerly anticipated update, Jeremy iegel provides his legendary perspective and guidance to an investment world turned upside down.Stocks for the Long Run combines a compelling and timely portrait of today's turbulent stock market with the strategies, tools, and techniques investors need to maintain their focus and achieve meaningful stock returns over time.

This completely updated edition includes entirely new data, charts, and figures as it provides answers on the five major issues concerning investors and professionals today:

• How will events related to September 11 tragedy affect long-term market returns?
• What behavioral roadblocks stand in the way of achieving financial success?
• Are "countries" still relevant for global investing?
• Will stock "indexing" match its past performance?
• Can tomorrow's stock market deliver the same returns as markets in the past?

Praise for previous editions of Stocks for the Long Run:

"Should command a central place on the desk of any 'amateur' investor or beginning professional."--Barron's

"A simply great book."--Forbes

Book Description

Packed with powerful, proven, and time-tested techniques, Pure Profits gives you the tools for changing your life and improving your financial situation. Al Auger's real life examples and step-by-step game plan will put you on the fast track to success.

Discover how to:
Spot first-rate real estate locations
Network easily and effectively
Improve your personal performance and negotiating skills
Evaluate and limit risk
Create a winning proposal that targets high returns ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great guide when changing careers
Pure Profits by Al Auger has been a great tool for me to use as I change careers. For some one who was not involved in real estate proior to this career change it provided me with a clear and logical guide to getting started. I found the exercises to be a very valuable. They forced me to practice what I had just read in the chapter. As they say the best way to learn something is by doing it, and that is exactly what the exercises accomplished with me.

Much of the information is really common sense. Pure Profits helped bring back to me many of the skills I had learned in my 30 year sales & marketing career. I keep the book with me all the time and constantly refer back to it as I begin to make moves in real estate.

In a way I hope more people don't find out about it so I can maintain an edge on those I deal with. The first real estate agent I dealt with went out and bought the book as soon as I mentioned it. Now he knows where I am coming from as we discuss deals. So you can see, the book isn't only for beginners like me but experienced agents can benefit as well.

Great book don't miss it.

Thorough and to the point
"Pure Profits" is a complete course in commercial real estate investing. The book is filled with tips and information garnered from the author's many years of experience as a real estate investor. Just as important, he describes various pitfalls that are easy to fall into if you don't know about them. The various areas discussed include creating a relationship with a broker (or becoming a broker yourself), obtaining relevant information, locating the right property, making your investment plan, negotiating, important contract clauses, and creating a proposal that appeals to investors. There is not a lot of fluff in this book. It is concise, to the point, and contains multiple illustrations and examples to help you learn the finer points of investing in commercial real estate. If you want to get started in commercial real estate investing or want to make your efforts more efficient and consistently profitable then this is a book you will not want to miss. It is a recommended purchase for anyone wishing to become involved in or wishing to better their success rate in commercial real estate investing.

Information, Information, Information!
The idea of a career in commercial real estate intrigued me for years. This book helped me make the leap to finally do it. Al Auger explained