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Confidence Quote by Benjamin Graham

“I have little confidence even in the ability of analysts, let alone untrained investors, to select common stocks that will give better than average results. Consequently, I feel that the standard portfolio should be to duplicate, more or less, the DJIA.” quote by Benjamin Graham
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““I have little confidence even in the ability of analysts, let alone untrained investors, to select common stocks that will give better than average results. Consequently, I feel that the standard portfolio should be to duplicate, more or less, the DJIA.””

Benjamin Graham

About This Quote

Source Book: The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham, 1949

Analysts and untrained investors lack edge; best to mirror a broad market index like the DJIA.

In simple terms: Invest in a market index rather than picking stocks.

Key Takeaway

Use index funds for investing.

Themes

investing risk management passive strategy

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

financial educational

When to use this quote

  • retirement planning
  • personal finance
  • wealth building
  • risk-averse investing

Key Concepts

efficient market hypothesis portfolio theory diversification

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you trust market averages over individual analysis?
  • When might active selection be justified?
A Different Perspective

Index investing may underperform in certain market conditions.

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