Friday, October 17, 2008

Buy, Buy, Buy

Wise words.

“The financial world is a mess, both in the United States and abroad. Its problems, moreover, have been leaking into the general economy, and the leaks are now turning into a gusher,” the head of Berkshire Hathaway Inc conglomerate wrote in the New York Times.

“In the near term, unemployment will rise, business activity will falter and headlines will continue to be scary,” Buffett added.

“So ... I’ve been buying American stocks. This is my personal account I’m talking about, in which I previously owned nothing but United States government bonds. (This description leaves aside my Berkshire Hathaway holdings, which are all committed to philanthropy).”

“If prices keep looking attractive, my non-Berkshire net worth will soon be 100 percent in United States equities.”

The reason, he said, is a key maxim in his outlook: “A simple rule dictates my buying: Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.

(5) Comments
Posted by Owen at 1751 hrs
Economy

  1. Gosh, not having that Billion or so backup has crimped my styyle, nevertheless WB’s aplomb and joie de vie is matchless. What a guy, what a pal! Can I call you pal, W ?

    Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on October 17, 2008 at 2113 hrs


  2. I believe it took the DOW until 1954 before it matched its 1929 high.

    Once the PE ratios get down in the 6-10 range and dividend yields approach 5-6%, that’s when stocks will be a real value.  We’re close on some stocks but not there yet.

    Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on October 17, 2008 at 2216 hrs


  3. Steve, your reasoned assessment of the situation is without doubt more accurate, but accuracy not being my sole message, the summation that having Billions offers greater potential is definitely more desireable, don’t you think?

    Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on October 17, 2008 at 2252 hrs


  4. I can’t remember if it was Rothschild or JP Morgan who said:

    “The time to buy is when the blood is running in the streets.”

    Seems appropriate.

    Posted by The Asian Badger on October 18, 2008 at 1246 hrs


  5. Ricardus Aquilo ,


    Yes it’s better to have a billion than not.  Great conclusion

    Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on October 18, 2008 at 1858 hrs


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