Skip to content

Attractive Quote by Charlie Munger

“Finding a single investment that will return 20% per year for 40 years tends to happen only in dreamland. In the real world, you uncover an opportunity, and then you compare other opportunities with that. And you only invest in the most attractive opportunities. That's your opportunity cost…” quote by Charlie Munger
Download Open image
“Finding a single investment that will return 20% per year for 40 years tends to happen only in dreamland. In the real world, you uncover an opportunity, and then you compare other opportunities with that. And you only invest in the most attractive opportunities. That's your opportunity cost. That's what you learn in freshman economics. The game hasn't changed at all. That's why Modern Portfolio Theory is so asinine.”

Charlie Munger

About This Quote

Source Speech: Commentary on Investment Realities, date unknown

The quote argues that seeking unrealistically high, stable returns is futile; investors should compare opportunities and choose the most attractive, recognizing opportunity cost as taught in basic economics.

In simple terms: Chasing unrealistic returns is futile; compare and choose best opportunities.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize realistic, high‑value investments.

Themes

investment opportunity cost realism economics

Mood

pragmatic realistic

Type

advice motivational

When to use this quote

  • stock selection
  • venture capital
  • real‑estate
  • personal finance

Key Concepts

risk assessment portfolio optimization value investing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria define an attractive investment for you?
  • How do you balance risk and return?
A Different Perspective

High return expectations can lead to excessive risk‑taking.

2.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Charlie Munger

Explore all 544 Charlie Munger quotes

More Attractive quotes

Browse all 1,796 Attractive quotes