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Warren Buffett likes to say that the first rule of…

“Warren Buffett likes to say that the first rule of investing is "Don't lose money," and the second rule is, "Never forget the first rule." I too believe that avoiding loss should be the primary goal of every investor. This does not mean that investors should never incur the risk of any loss at…” quote by Seth Klarman
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“Warren Buffett likes to say that the first rule of investing is "Don't lose money," and the second rule is, "Never forget the first rule." I too believe that avoiding loss should be the primary goal of every investor. This does not mean that investors should never incur the risk of any loss at all. Rather "don't lose money" means that over several years an investment portfolio should not be exposed to appreciable loss of principal.”

Seth Klarman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Preserving capital is the foundation; risk must be managed over time, not avoided entirely.

In simple terms: Protect capital, manage risk.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize capital preservation, accept calculated risk.

Themes

investment risk management capital preservation long-term strategy

Mood

analytical pragmatic cautious

Type

financial investment

When to use this quote

  • retirement planning
  • stock market
  • real estate
  • business ventures

Key Concepts

Value investing risk tolerance portfolio management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance risk and reward?
  • What safeguards protect your principal?
A Different Perspective

Risk cannot be eliminated, only mitigated.

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