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Business Quote by Warren Buffett

“The idea that you try to time purchases based on what you think business is going to do in the next year or two, I think that's the greatest mistake that investors make because it's always uncertain. People say it's a time of uncertainty. It was uncertain on September 10th, 2001, people just…” quote by Warren Buffett
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“The idea that you try to time purchases based on what you think business is going to do in the next year or two, I think that's the greatest mistake that investors make because it's always uncertain. People say it's a time of uncertainty. It was uncertain on September 10th, 2001, people just didn't know it. It's uncertain every single day. So take uncertainty as part of being involved in investment at all. But uncertainty can be your friend. I mean, when people are scared, they pay less for things. We try to price. We don't try to time at all.”

Warren Buffett

About This Quote

Source Interview: Berkshire Hathaway Annual Shareholders Meeting, 2023

Investors should accept uncertainty as inherent, using it to find value rather than trying to predict markets.

In simple terms: Uncertainty can be an advantage in investing.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty, focus on value.

Themes

investment strategy risk management behavioral finance market cycles

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

financial strategic

When to use this quote

  • stock selection
  • portfolio diversification
  • long‑term holding
  • market timing avoidance

Key Concepts

Value investing psychology of fear price volatility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you turn market fear into buying opportunities?
  • What metrics help you stay disciplined?
A Different Perspective

Timing markets is nearly impossible; over‑reliance on forecasts can cause losses.

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