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Academic Quote by Charlie Munger

“Berkshire's whole record has been achieved without paying one ounce of attention to the efficient market theory in its hard form. And not one ounce of attention to the descendants of that idea, which came out of academic economics and went into corporate finance and morphed into such obscenities…” quote by Charlie Munger
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“Berkshire's whole record has been achieved without paying one ounce of attention to the efficient market theory in its hard form. And not one ounce of attention to the descendants of that idea, which came out of academic economics and went into corporate finance and morphed into such obscenities as the capital asset pricing model, which we also paid no attention to. I think you'd have to believe in the tooth fairy to believe that you could easily outperform the market by seven-percentage points per annum just by investing in high volatility stocks.”

Charlie Munger

About This Quote

Source Interview: CNBC, 2020

Munger dismisses strict adherence to efficient market theory and CAPM, arguing that real‑world investing can outperform by focusing on volatility and fundamentals.

In simple terms: Ignore rigid market models; focus on fundamentals and volatility.

Key Takeaway

Question market models, seek real value.

Themes

investment philosophy market skepticism value investing risk management fundamentals

Mood

skeptical analytical pragmatic

Type

advice strategic

When to use this quote

  • portfolio construction
  • stock analysis
  • risk assessment
  • financial education
  • investment strategy

Key Concepts

economics behavioral finance stock selection

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you rely on market models or fundamentals?
  • How do you handle high‑volatility stocks?
A Different Perspective

Munger’s view may overlook benefits of diversified, passive strategies for many investors.

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