Time to invest in the stock market?
Stock markets have been rallying for almost two months now since the Dow hit a nearly 12-year low in early March. The S&P 500 has surged about 30 percent since then; and the Dow Jones industrial average has posted its best two months since the start of the last bull market in 2002. International indexes are up sharply too, marking the strongest global stock rally since 1991.
Traders work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange moments before the closing bell.
One expert tells the Financial Times: "All the things are in place for the bear market to have ended."
And it's not just stock markets that are rebounding... credit markets, emerging markets and commodities - like oil - are all on the rise. Also, although company earnings are still decreasing, they aren't as bad as they were. Surprise results have come from companies like Wells Fargo, JP Morgan, Ford and Apple.
And then there's the massive economic stimulus program that may have started to work its way through different parts of the economy.
It's hard to believe two months ago we were all talking about the first depression since the 1930s, deflation and bank nationalizations. But markets often improve before the wider economy does; and some think the markets could keep rallying for another six months.
The 'glass half empty' crowd isn't convinced. They suggest the current stock market rally is not for real. They worry that banks will continue to hold back lending and housing prices will continue to fall.
In light of the fact that many Americans have been standing on the sideline for some time...
Here’s my question to you: Is now the time to invest in the stock market?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Rudy from Irvington, New York writes:
My father was in the market when all of this started, and when it became apparent that the Bush administration and their lap dog followers were going to be shown the door, I encouraged him to stick it out. I think the market and the economy will bounce back, you simply have to recognize that it’s not the same market anymore and bear (no pun intended) with its changes.
Tim from Washington writes:
Jack, A month ago was the best time to invest, but now is better than never. Unexpected success stories like Bank of America have boosted confidence. That, along with efforts to stabilize major industry players and keep people employed, is going to keep confidence up!
Terry from Illinois writes:
Not yet. We have to wait for the Democrats to put the regulations back into place that the Republicans and Bush removed so we are better protected from the greedy capitalists.
Elijah from San Francisco writes:
When the bubble first popped and the DOW plunged 500 points in a day, I immediately jumped ship and switched to bonds within hours of the crash. It was too late and I had already lost a lot of money. It will take me a while to want to try my luck again.
Bob from Penney Farms, Florida writes:
Jack, I am a small investor, but since February I have been putting $200 a month into the stock market, half into a regional bank and half into a Fortune 500 company. The bargains are there and now is the time to pick them up. I just wish I could put more into investments at this time.
Patrick writes:
Invest? With what money?
Ray from Kalamazoo, Michigan writes:
Jack, You can bet that when the average investor jumps back into the stock market, the big boys will start selling. That is just the way it works. The little guy will get hosed all over again.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Yes it's time to stop being scared and get back to making money.
In my opinion Jack, now would be a good time to invest in selected stocks. I think those corporations involved heavily in energy innovation and technology would be excellent to look at. This simply HAS to be on our agenda in the future with the ever increasing cost of engery. Also, it wouldnt' hurt to invest in property with an abundant source of WATER. IMO, this is going to become as valuable as gold in the future with development destroying our underground acquifers and with us consuming so much water and polluting the rest.
So how many politicians are investing in the stock market? Stay out, people, it's only a government-sponsored ponzi scheme.
Only if you want to buy low and sell high. You can't go any lower than rock bottom.
It depends on one's financial circumstances and time horizon. Thinking there are blanket answers to questions like that helped us get into every bubble and mania we ever had. For me, it is a good time to STAY invested at the level I maintained for the past 5 years or so. Last Fall through early April was a BAD time to EXIT from equity investments.
Never, I have never trusted the stock market, therefore I did not lose any money. However, I know many people whom lost a small fortune. I would never trust Wall Street Gangsters and the Stock Market Mafia. If people have not learned their lessons yet I do not feel sorry when the next crash comes and all their money is gone again.
i believe it is time to do it. our economy is moving in the right direction
and stocks are cheap right now, so i would advice the investors to invest. America needs money and a little bit of hope to keep moving once again.
I don't believe in investing in the stock market,,,,,,,,,,never have and I never will. It's way too risky for me!
In moderation, yes. If you are using OPM, yes. If you have no money left like most of America, NO.
Yes Jack, I think things are starting to look pretty good. However, I hope Americans have learned from this recent disaster and will manage their own funds. Obviously, leaving it to a garden variety "Financial Manager" is suicide.
It sure is, too bad I don't have any spare change left. The gas station and the grocery store cleaned out my wallet months ago and until the economy turns around and I can afford to gamble, any extra cash I have is going under the mattress where at least I know it won't go to pay for some wall street wizzard's penthouse or wind up as part of a bankers bonus package.
To buy stocks right now? I must say no. But that's only me. Reason.....
The stock are plunging 54% Denial is not only a river in Egypt( The Nile). Alot of people of Wall Street are experiencing denial. So I mus say Thank you but no thank you.
If you're wealthy and have a lot of money to play around with then I think the time is now to invest some money into the stock market. There are a lot of deals to be found. But if you're a person with a little nest egg who wants to invest it so that you might be able to retire, Wall Street is not the place for you. Your chances of losing all your money is much greater than the big boys. Until there are laws and new rules past that protect the small investor, I would stay out of Wall Street.
Only if you have discretionary dollars to potentially throw away. I am tired of supporting those super rich thieves that comprise the senior management of many of those companies; I will just keep my money in safe CDs etc.
your two months late, Jack. living in Las Vegas I follow the gaming stocks closely. they are all up as much as 400 percent in the last two month. nows the time to lighten up and take some profits.
and btw, just the fact that a non-business blog would ask this question is usually the sign of a short term top.
A good time to invest but stay away from anything involved in Sub-prime mortgages or residuals.
The first rise of the stock market after the Great Depression was a false rise and it plunged again. If one has the stomach for risk, maybe, but NOT me!
I'm not investing until Congress has a chancee to enact several tons of restrictive legislation so the Wall Street boys don't ever try to "cook the books" again.
Jack: Yes it is time to invest in the stock market. Especially for those folks who have 401K's who combined lost trillions of dollars in their retirement fund. I have 4 friends who lost together a total of $350,000. They are in thier 60's and want to retire, but might have to wait until they are in their 70's. Yes, please invest wisely in the stock market, so my best friends can retire.
Not for me. I don't have enough pennies to invest anywhere.
If you aren't an insider gambling in the stock markets isn't any better than going to a casino and giving them all your money since the same principle and theory applies to both institutions............The House Always Wins!!!!
Yes it is a good time to invest. When you or Warren Buffet send me a check for $10 million dollars then I'll be glad to invest 10% in the market. Shall I hold my breath until the check arrives or go ahead and assume that the people that have a lot of money like your and Warren, have it because they are selfish and don't really care about anything or anyone other than themselves. Even if I had the money, I'd invest most of it in realestate not the stock market.
yes. The moment I get some money
It is pretty obvious that there are people that continue to make huge profits on the stock markets.This is causing the market to go up then they sell sell sell and take the market back down, and they take money that has been invested by nervous investors with it. I wouldn't ever invest in the Stock Market. It's a joke.
When everyone lost half their net worth in the first crash, why would they want to now invest the other half just to lose it all? There's too much indecision about what Obama's trying to do and how much of it will actually help, besides, we need to start saving to pay the monstrous taxes that will follow this "stimulus".
Jack,
The time to invest in the markets couldn't get any better then it is right now for the every day person. This is due to the low prices for a share of stock and the absence of all the wall street fat cats...
Central Islip, NY
I'll invest in the stock market....when my mattress is full.
Of corse, A little extra moolah isn't bad.
It's time to get in the stock market but only in a very systematic and well thought out manner. I would use some caution in doing so well at the same time maintaining a good diversity mix. Personally I have used the last couple of mouths to do as much research as I could to assist me in selecting those stocks that I feel are fairly likely to be going up as a growing economy starts to reassert itself.
i would never gamble my money in the stock market cause i remember it goes up and down and to zero. i would be afraid to lose my money.
Financially stocks are down and over time they will go up again. But with Obama in office, I would stay away since he will ultimately raise taxes on Capital gains, unless the investment were to be long term, then once the Democrats are out of power the capital gains could once again be restored to a reasonable level.
Not really, 2 months ago was. Investing in the proper stocks would have given you a 30% or more gain. If you think you want to research you buys very well.
If anyone, by any chance, has any money they might be better advised to buy a cake pan, a shovel, a pick and a mule and go prospect for gold somewhere so they will at least have something to show for their money at the end of the day.
Investing in the stock market is like thinking you will find a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Jack
Anyone who invests in the Stock Market is out of their freaking minds. When the market increases 100 points it is the product of failed companies and bankruptcies of investers who paid the big price. I suggest the Indian Casinos is a better investment , there regulated better and honest people....
Yes, with prudence. I've generally stayed in throughout this hurricane. I'm moving more back in now. I am avodiing any company which recieved bail-out funds which may make them subject to inappropriate governemnt control/owenership. And, I'm avaoiding any fund that has secured debt with companies which might see that debt effectively wiped out by the governemnt in favor of others (Like Chrysler)
In short, Jack, I'll invest where the government is not.
Not really. It would be like buying a ticket on the Titanic.
Great idea. Only two problems. First, my money seems to be tied up in mortgage payments and electric bills. I may be investing in some groceries this weekend. Secondly, investing in the stock market might involve personal contact with someone in the financial industry. I'd rather shake hands with the entire population of Mexico City.
.Absolutely not ! Decent good honest Americans stay out of the Stock Market please. The housing market has another 3-5 yrs to level off and that is critical (housing is my field of 25 yrs) as to what happens. And, folks, there is so much dishonesty in Wall Street please try and stay safe.
Joan B
Wi
Jack–
I still have some funds in my annuity, so I'm hoping that my investments will gain back some of what I lost. So, I say yes–let's invest.
My friends and I would love to invest in the market... the only problem is that everyone is ducking a layoff, even my friends who work for investment firms are fearing for their jobs. So, to answer your question Jack, right now the only thing Americans should be investing in is a great book on " Updating Your Resume."
Yes but only if you Jack will back up the stock. I don't think so right now but it maybe close to the point where we can trust what it will do.
You may as well go to the casino and put all your chips on red. Red because that is the color of the ink flowing from Wallstreet to Mainstreet.
It is best to wait for the fall out from the auto makers bankruptsies and reorganizations. The effect of the loss from the auto manufacturing industry will effect millions of jobs and pensions. With those factors still hanging in the balance, any stock broker that tells you to buy at this time does not have your financial interest in mind. The Wallstreet gurus and pundits are lying to us.
If you must invest, invest in water systems. Companies that supply water filtration equipment for cities, pipelines, desalination, etc.
I don't believe so. We'll have to see how the auto industry responds. The economy has signs of turning around but high 5-ing all around is very premature.
Hi Jack:
I doubt the tend is stable enough. When you start seeing more consistent positive numbers. I would put some money back in. I think when GM goes belly up it will have a significant negative effect on the market.
Ron Temecula, CA
Words that have ALWAYS been true: If you want to make money in the market, do the opposite of the crowds.
Yes, it is time to invest, the bigger the better and the sooner the better if you want the biggest return. And then when evereybody else joins in, jump out.
I don't think the stock market is the way to go right now unless you have about 9 months worth of your salary in the bank to back you up if you lose your job. Any number of things can happen to cause those stocks to drop over night. A war for one and with Pakistan having Nukes and the Taliban knocking on their door it is a good likelihood. The other thing is oil. We are still dependent on foreign oil and as long as we are at the mercy of other countries and their oil supply line they have us over a barrel so to speak. Nothing has changed in that area except the price and that can soar up overnight if the supply is cut or a refinery has to shut down. if it happens over a weekend then your not trading any stock until Monday. Two days can wipe out a porfolio.
Now is not the right time to invest in the stock market for two reasons. The credit markets are still in flux (with no portent for stability) and unemployment continues to rise. Moreover, the track record of most of these money managers isn't that good. Finally, the mutual funds and 401K investors are likely to pull out everything, if things take a sudden change for the worse (like a dip below 6,000)–given how close to retirement they are.
Considering that I started out with a full glass 10 years ago and now that same glass is half empty, I think I have a good reason to be part of the “glass Half Empty” crowd – and yes, I’m not convinced. But the answer to your question is, Still too early. We need to know what companies will survive and which ones won’t . Chrysler and GM come to mind.
I am investing for the first time in my life (I am 25). The underlying cause of our economic strife is ultimately everyday people, and we are the ones who need to work to restore not only the monetary value of, but the faith in, our economy. The only thing I can say is that I hope people return to investing, but return smarter and with an eye to slowly building a better life and better economy, not simply for the sake of amassing wealth.
Jack, I would be more than glad to buy stock in the company where I work, that is just as soon as they offer me a job.
Jack:--It looks good and sound good--but it is still the same financial idiots that are managing the market-–Treasury Bills are the best--it is the same financal idiots-–but when was the last time the government went broke--that's even after infusing almost three trillion dollars back into Wall Street.---Wall Street is dangling the carrot--if I were a financial rabbit--I would be very careful-–lighting can strike in the same place twice--especially when it never destroyed what it intended to the first time.....Not a good time to invest.
No. The factors behind mass layoffs are still in the numbers, and the public senses it and is tight with the wallet. Layoffs and weak spending means we have not seen the bottom yet. The market will probably lead the recovery, so if this is that lead, those that get in will be lucky. But the market also has false bumps on the way down as well. My judgment is that this is a false bump. My money stays in insured CDs.
The sooner we start investing the sooner we get to make back our losses. The lessons have been learned, it's time to dust ourselves off and get back into the game. The doom and gloomers can whine all they want, me I'm moving on.
Of course, if one can identify a totally secure stock. Unfortunately, these days it's almost impossible to tell what one looks like. When new companies that produce green energy products and services "go public," believe me, I'm there. It's almost a civic duty.
For now though, gotta worry about the mortgage and keeping the kids in clothes.
Now is good and a few weeks ago would have been better but only if you have enough money that if you lose some it will not lower your quality of life. The market is like Vegas only the odds of winning (overall) is very good most of the time.
If I had any money, I would invest now. I wonder if they'd take my old pontiac in trade.
Tim in Texas
Jack, I will wait until AIG's earnings come out in about a week.
If you have money to spend, isnt it always the rule to try to buy low and sell high?
well stocks are low right now... mostly.
And if you know the company can rebound, and is undervalued, then it only makes sense to take some of that extra cash and buy up some low single digit shares.
If you're under the age of 25 and have your whole career ahead of you, it is absolutely the best time to invest. Once in a century we get a low like this, and when the market rebounds, the just-out-of-college crowd is going to find themselves with more money than they know what to do with.
Like Gold. Do you invest when it is 1000 dollars an ounce as it has been lately or when it is 200 dollars an ounce like just before 911. Gold was perfect back then but now is the time to invest in stocks that are at low levels. But like putting your hand on a one arm bandit, pick out the right stocks. Remember it is still a crap shoot. Some will rise and some will fall.
Economic forecasting is an elusive art. Sometimes economists hit their marks and sometimes they miss. They all agree the time to invest is when the stock value is low and sell when it is high. When is at the heart of investing. Since no investor knows the when of buying and selling stocks and bonds with absolute accuracy, diversification in your portfolio is necessary. The market is now on the rise. If you are not in the market now, you are losing money.
Considering the fact that I have lost thousands of my annuity while the executives rewarded themselves in millions for job nonperformance it will be in my next lifetime before I invest in the stock market again.
And lose you shirt, no doubt.
Yes folks, it's time to invest, some stock prices are so low they can only go upward, i recently purchased 500 bank stocks below $2 per share, planning to keep it for at least 52 weeks, it is now well above $2 and climbing. Take a chance like this 3rd world immigrant has been doing.
Depends on what you invest in and what your tolerance level for pain is. I went back in when the market was around 6500 figuring that was close to the bottom. There are days I question that decision but overall I'm running about 15% up, not bad considering..............
I jumped back in two weeks ago, with 25% of my investments. Sticking with DJ Blu Chips for now; not quite that confident in the Growth stuff yet. I'm 60 and looking to retire in 2011, but need to gain back some of what I lost last year. Another 25% is in International Stocks, the rest in stable and bonds.
I would like to know the same thing. I can start my 401K at work next month and have been watching the stock market like a hawk to try to make up my mind whether or not I want to start right now or not. And I know that if I don't invest then I am one of the people that is causing the market to not rebound, but it's not Monopoly money that you can just go crazy with, this stuff has to last when the car breaks down, or the house needs repairs.
When it was at $6000, it was a great time to buy. Historical data showed that even at a modest rate of growth of the economy, $6000 would be nicely undervaluing the economy so even if the stock market hadn't bottomed out, wait 10/15 years and the value would likely come back. $8000 is probably still slightly undervalued, though it might not be bear-bottom prices.
Yes, in Purell Hand Sanitizer and face masks. Seriously, invest with what? You have to have money to invest money and the middle class is broke.
Jack, for those with more money than brains, it’s always time and for the rest of us, if we have money we can afford to throw away or lend to a brother in law, yes. Our economy thrives on this enterprise, but so do the devious and smarmy with bridges to sell to the gullible with cash. Bargains are sure to be found and if kept for the long haul will indeed make now the right time.
Are you kidding? Now is the time to invest in the stock market if you want to work until you die.
Brownwood, Texas
I think went those billions of dollars get into the State's hands then it would be a good time to invest.
I am putting everything under the old beauty rest so I can rest too. My mattress never lies.
Maybe for those that wish to gamble their money that way. Why support the CEOs' extreme pay by proping up their stocks? Why encourage them to cut more middle class jobs? The stock market is for the rich on both sides of the issue. I wouldn't support most of the corporaations IF I had any money to invest. It is a great way for most Americans to get taken for their money when they drop the bottom out and ruin people.
On a selective basis, probably so. The mass of humanity in the world will, by sheer volume of pent-up demand, get things going again.
Yes, anything but Time-Warner stock.
It was time to invest in the market back in early March.
It's not for me. I can't afford it now anyway and I'd would rather wait and see what happens. I don't trust them anymore and might not ever again.
I hope so. I bought yesterday.
I would if I had a job.
Yes Jack, I'm investing in Chlorox and Roche US Pharmeuticals. Roche makes Tamiflu; Chlorox and Tamiflu are flying off the shelves because people are deathly afraid of contracting the swine flu! These two companies can't make the stuff fast enough. It's time to “grab opportunity by the forelock!”
Absolutely ! I want some Ford and GE. Ralph, Yakima, WA
Invest with what money?
Yes. Obama's policies are working, optimism is back, and we're on track to build a stronger economy than ever before.
Of course not. In case you have not noticed there is very little good news, a wealth of bad news and the markets go up why?
Once again, Irrational Exerberance. I'm getting back in a DOW 5000
Each person must deside knowing their own situation but I think the fear should be over and if you have the money go for it.
Not, yet, we have to wait for the Democrats to put back the regulations back into place that the Republicans and Bush removed so we are better protected from the greedy capitolists.
Yes sir, now is the time. Those corporations and banks could use the extra money, buy stocks. Oh and this simulation I'm using that currently reflects the actual market is making me some unactual money...so if I really had the cash, I would do so.
I'd be afraid, until there are stricter regulations in place so these fools can't take us again. I'd put my money in real estate, if I had any.
what will $1 buy on the market..? Can't invest what you don't have..
If anyone still has any money to invest.......now might be a good time to go for it. Unfortunately, most of us are just trying to hang on from week to week. Savings and investments are foreign words.
In most cases like this, it is a ideal time to invest. With our president and a incompetent staff, It wouldn't be a good idea to put everything in it. If it was anybody but Obama in office, then this would be a great time to invest because prices are at bargain basement prices.
I think the initiative to start buying was prompted with Geithner announcing the plan to halt the mortgage crisis. It was a horrible thing we saw stop, and it showed on the DOW with an over 500 point gain. It's a good idea to invest, but that people should watch where they place their money, and invest in places that Washington is allowing booming business, because that will ultimately help them benefit.
Jack. Absolutely time. I invested in renewable energy EFT's and they are doing well. Will be investing more. The future is now.
I got out when the Dow was at 9,000 and got back in when it was below 7,000. I'm making money while my colleagues are nervously shielding their accounts.
Would the politicians invest in the stock market with their 8% raise? Im thinking, its a no.
Ask me when the Dow Jones Industrial Average is back above 10,000.
Until then, it's probably best if you're an individual investor to just renew your parking permit and stay...parked on the sidelines.
Yes, right now is definetly the time to start getting into stocks. Stocks are beginning to rebound off of their recent lows and seem to be staying that way if not improving.
However, specific stocks are subject to change at any time and you should seek guidance before purchasing any.
ABSOLUTELY! In fact the time to star was two months ago and especially wherever the government put its bailout money. Do you think they are so stupid they aren't going to make sure those businesses succeed if only to make sure that we taxpayersa get paid back especially if they want to get reelected! As to the loss ... that was just Busch mirage of unregulated unsecured anything goes Ponziesque corporate welfare Krap!
I guess it's time to start investing in the producers of Tamiflu, Relenza and surgical masks.
Jack, the best time to invest in the stock market is past. I invested all that I could stomach back in March and all of those stocks are rising, steadily – even when the market drops, on occasion
I was not in the market when it went down and I have been waiting for it to show signs of going up. I think it still has some down sides and and I am going to buy when the market goes down again.
Sure, I'll invest in the stock market, right after I have become the "All-Being, Master of Time, Space and Dimension." And I get a pet unicorn.
I have been slowly getting back in over the past few weeks. The key is to use stop/loss levels and pay attention to them. If a stock or fund goes up then you raise the stop/loss level periodically to make sure that any gains you have made are not lost if the bulls decide to make another run.
Glenn Haymarket, VA
Simple as business 101...buy low and sell high. With blue chips selling like penny stocks today, I've chucked in a few dollars and love the roller coaster ride. Better buy tickets today because you'll never see it better than this.
Jack,
You are in NY. You must know some of those wall street types! What's selling these days?
Yes! Absolutely! If you have $ that you don't need for at least 5 years – invest it!
Heck yes Jack!! Emotion should be taken completely out of the equation when it comes to investments. Buy low and sell high has been touted forever although very few people actually do as proven these last few months.
On a side note, Wolfe Blitzer must've been very good at dodgeball as a kid!! He dodged your question like the best of the them!
Felice in NM
Jack,
when Jerry Farwell is resurrected, pigs can fly and the republicans become the party of inclusion I will invest in the stock market! Otherwise Las Vegas is a better deal!!!
Charles
Jack in the last 6 months I had lost roughly 90k in the market! in the last 70 days my adviser has made up almost 45% . am I bullish? YOU BET! The market is alway's looking about 6 months ahead! By the way I did vote for president Obama!
The best time to invest in any stock is when you have enough faith yourself, and enough extra cash yourself, not to care if you lose a little before you make a little.
The old saying "buy low, sell high" has greater meaning now than even a few months ago, and stabelizing our economy so soon after the bush years with a show of confidence would really help put a shine on our money across the world. Add to that, the bonus that the Al Queda's of the world would have their desire to bankrupt us sideswiped, and I think you've got a pretty good path to stick to.
It was time to invest in the stock market two months! I'm a broke graduate student (GO App State!) and I've been putting in money for a while now. Of course, I'm not retiring anytime soon but if you've got 5 or more years before retirement, put money in the stocket market!
I have watched the assets of friends drop 40%. Meanwhile I have invested solely in overseas markets and precious metal stocks seeing @10-12% INCREASE during the same period. I wouldn't invest in the US market if you gave me the money to do so
When the bubble first popped and the DOW plunged 500 points a day, I immediately jumped ship and switched to bonds within hours of the crash. It was too late and I had already lost a lot of money. It will take me a while to want to try my luck again.
Sure invest now. However, three months ago would have been better timming. We all need a crystal ball.
Now is the best time to invest in the staock market and even better real estate. Especially anywhere there are alot of foreclosures and for first time home buyers. If you are going to invest in the stock market do it yourself , do not trust mutual funds, hedge funds or 401Ks
Side note: I worked on wall street for 12 years, there is a tremendous amount of fraud in mutuals funds, hedge funds and 401Ks
Since November, I believe that the best time to invest in the stock market is about two days after your network starts talking in a negative light about an industry or corporation. Unless there is an impending bankruptcy, stocks will take an immediate hit due to any lack of confidence in their viability, only to recover a few days or weeks later.
By that rationale, I think that now is probably a bad time to invest. I believe that much of this talk about confidence in the market is going to convince people to take their profits and wait for the next dip.
The stock market is the only place I can think of where you have a 50% off sale and no one comes.At a 14000 dow everyone was in with both feet and borrowed money. At 6800 people sold every thing. now at the lowest yields in a lifetime investors are lining up to buy bonds. The time to buy is now while fear is still pervasive.
Larry from Cape Cod
We've invested in new windows for our home. It's good for the environment, we get a tax break, our energy bills will go down, the value of our home will go up, and they look a lot better than our current windows.
Darryl
Indianapolis
I don't think so Jack. I'm still down 60% on my investment, i don't want to make it another 10 to 15 more percent. This here is no more than a "Sucker's Rally".
I invested more in prospect to get a good outcome in the future....
Tucson, AZ – Whether to invest in the stock market has nothing to do with the current market average. The market goes up, and down, sort of regularly, on cycles of seven to ten year length. The real question is, when do you need your money back? If the answer is "less than ten years", do NOT put it in stocks. If the answer is "more than 20 years", then DO put it in stocks. Just do the math, Jack. One cannot time the market, but it does have better two decade returns than any other investment, even counting in the occasional crash. The closer you get to needing your money to live on, the less of it should be in stocks.
One exception – if you have ten million dollars, and put it all in IBM common stock, you will get annual dividends, almost guaranteed, of about $50,000 dollars. In that case, you need ask no other questions or get any answers – just let IBM support you until you die!
Dear Jack,
in life we all need a doctor, a good hairdresser and a financial advisor! So far, I'm healthy, my hair is just right for me and I'm slowly starting to see some gains in my investments!:>)
Mind you, if you invest now, with everything else tanking or taking a turn for the worst, you're betting on Obama, pure and simple. Myself, I'd buy.
Jack i invested in the stock market,made 1200.00 dollers in five days,then i lost it in about five hours,invest in the market but make shure you have nerves of Steel.
Charlie,Jacksonville Florida
Yes after the Republicans crashed the market with thier bad ways of running the country, the Democrates have once again come to clean up thier mess again, so now is the time to invest in the market again!
Sec. Clinton was right the Dems always clean up thier messes!
The best time to buy stock, ironically, is when the market suffers. If everyone invested now, stock would go up and the money that circulates as a result will return to banks in some form or another. Investor confidence will be a large part in what saves the economy, so yes, Jack. This is the right time for everyone to start investing again.
Henry Myers
Saint Louis, MO
First off I would like to point out that the "glass half empty crowd" are seeing their numbers dwindling to, well, something a lot less than half empty. My father was in the market when all of this started, and when it became apparent that the Bush administration and their lap dog followers were going to be shown the door I encouraged him to stick it out. I think the market and the economy will bounce back, you simply have to recognize that it's not the same market anymore and bear (no pun intended) with its changes.
I never stopped. It's a process called dollar cost averaging. At the same time, I have always been very selective in choosing the investments. The habits of both saving and investing create a more productive life. Stocks are not my only investments. My greatest investments are devoted to time spent with my family, expressions of my faith in God and in my fellow man, serving the disadvantaged and counseling the young.
Jack: I am a small investor, but since February I have been putting $200 a month into the stock market, half into a regional bank and half into a 500 Fortune company. The bargains are there and now is the time to pick them up. I just wish I could put more into investments at this time.
Bob
Penney Farms, FL
come on jack you're making this way too easy.rather than invest in the market why not just set up collection plates for the ceos, since their compensation packages have shrunk this year.poor babies. to quote
p.t. barnum there's a sucker born everyday and two to take 'em. my mattress is getting a little lumpy but i can still sleep on it without worrying
about wall street.my only problem is that the change wakes me up sometimes
Invest with what? The half of my 401k that's left after the market crashed, or the equity that no longer exists is my house?
And what money would I be using? Let's just say I had some. No, I wouldn't be investing it in the stock market now.
You know Jack, this brings me back to a story about my teacher in 1st grade. Everyday we came into school he would look at what brand name clothes we were wearing and what brand name shoes we were wearing. As you can probably postulate, he is indeed sitting quite comfortably since he made all his money in 1996. But do i think it is a good time to invest? No. Families and individuals need to keep their money in their pockets. They need to center around core family values and not center around gambling in a stock market that is uncertain. There needs to be some thinking for all of us before we invest in stocks in the future. Do I have enough money to gamble with? Will this put my family at stake? We never answered these questions then and we need to start answering them now. And when you think about it Jack, most people have not a clue what investing in a stock or a hedge fund is. In the end it goes back to educating the public and making sure they make well documented, informed decisions when it comes to their money. Frankly, we need to stay frugal for a bit.
This is simple. I will invest my money into the pipe dreams of Wall Street when hell freeze over and the devil becomes best friends with God. Fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, shame on Wall Street. Once might be considered a mistake, but twice is a clear abd evident pattern. There has been a pattern with Wall Street and lying, so I refuse to be fooled again.
If you have money you can afford to risk its a good time to get in.
First off I would like to point out that the “glass half empty crowd” are seeing their numbers dwindling to, well, something a lot less than half empty. My father was in the market when all of this started, and when it became apparent that the Bush administration and their lap dog followers were going to be shown the door I encouraged him to stick it out. I think the market and the economy will bounce back, you simply have to recognize that it’s not the same market anymore and bear (no pun intended) with its changes.
I don't know if it’s time to invest now. But what I do know is that the very people on Wall Street that are whining (like babies on the bus) and hoping for a pullback are the same people who were cheerleading the markets on the way down. I think it warrants investigation. Hey Jack maybe you can check out the video archives and do a segment on who's whining now. Lord knows somebody should.
Stock market? Let me invest in some flu vaccines first! I wouldn't want to be on CNN as the latest Swine Flu victim!!!
Of COURSE it's a good idea for Americans to invest in the markets now! Human psychology is THE most important factor in economics, and with a President who positively OOZES confidence, you'd be fools not to jump onboard this self-fufilling gravy train!
Adam
Mt. Pearl, NFLD
Canada
If you have the money and a penchant for gambling, then yes.
We are where we are is as a result of greed and bad policy. Simple good policy should revive our great economy.
For sure it's time to invest, we institutional buyers need your infusions for round 2. Can't do it without you. I hear whale oil is on the rebound.
I think it is time to begin investing. No disrespect to Wolf's statement of playing it conservative this week, but my salary does not compare to his, yet!
The regular folks, might be thinking, I can't win, break even, or even get out of the game. I believe the great American dream begins with a sound investment plan, no matter how little or great the amount. Besides who doesn't like a sale?
Jack, I'm not convinced that now is the time for new stock investments....... the auto industry is still very unsettled. I fear that 2 – 3 million unemployed from the automobile industrial complex will send the stock market reeling. Pessimism is my only defense these days because losing too much has proven to be too easy. ( Bloomfield, NJ)
Hi Jack:
You must be kidding?Invest in stock markets? Our Father was in U.S.A from 1908 to 1924 He was a rich man when He retuned back home to Greece.He taught us that better 5 in the hands than 10 and wait. Now in our retirement years we can enjoy the fruits of our labor without worrying about the stock markets.
So if you want to invest,invest something that is secure. We have a lot of Rich friend in U.S. and now they are scratching their heads if they have enough for groceries for the next week..
Jack,
There is never a wrong time to invest in the stock market. You just have to make the right bet. I invest two ways ... long ... for example, everyone has heard of Tony the Tiger. I also day trade ... last month GE went from 6.67 to about 11 in 3 days. GM went from 2.21 to 1.82 in a short time.
The stock market is like going to a casino, without having to take the flight.
Rick, OH
Now is an excellent time to invest in the stock market as the chances and potential for more robust earnings are greater now than they will be six months from now. Those that see the reverse in direction of our economy are probably the same folks who didn't think that we were in a recession a few years ago and they clearly half fill their glasses with water as opposed to a good chardonnay. A glass which is half full of Chardonnay is always viewed and experienced in a more positive fashion than a glass half full of H2o...
Steve
Clifton, VA
No. 'Never' is the time to invest in that pyramid scheme. They steal from the workers, the customers, and the "value therein". They are irresponsible, inflationary, and they chisel their way into the law-books and say that they are hereditary. And then there is God.
Andy of Sierra Vista, Arizona
Jack,
Absolutely not, at least not yet. It might be later on this year. If Ford could turn around it would be good, trading now at a little over $5. If you bought it and it went up to over $25 a share, it would be a good return. However, the banks, stocks, employment, GDC still aren't showing us that things aren't going to drop again. After losing half of my 401K, I am not taking any chances.
Yes, why would you ever not invest in the stock market? It's a consistently good investment, regardless of the general state of the economy.
Absolutely Jack
And if you owned Exxon or J&J you should have never sold them but
bought more.This is one case where dollar cost averaging will really
pay off except if you are in loser funds.
David
Buy a stock or a Latte'? Hmmm... I'd get a better return for my investment with a Latte' right now. There are too many hiccups right now in the market, and this transparency thing is rubbish.
It depends on which company you're investing, within the stock market itself each company has its own economic performance. I would invest in Procter & Gamble, because people are always purchasing household products and other essential items necessary for everyday life.
If you are under 50 years old and have money you won’t need for a few years yes. There are stocks that will always be viable. The best thing to do is to follow three or four for a while and see what kind of gains they make.
Jack,
I think history will show this as a good time, but people have seen too many things happen, too quickly lately, so they're scared to invest. I really don't see any disadvantage to the individual in waiting until things seem more stable all around, including the stock market.
Louisville, CO
Jack, probably most of the people don't have choices. Either we don't have the cash to invest, or our investments are through our company retirement plan and we can't, or don't fool with the way it is invested.
Having said that, I could have moved my investments into a safe plan but didn't, and now I hope that I can recoup the 30-percent loss I suffered since this time last year.
Well maybe 50-50 stocks vs bonds, not 90-10 like asset managers pushed on me the last 10 years! I have lost half my savings due to that ratio!
Mr. Cafferty:
Yes, I am investing in tax shelters of at least two kinds, I bought a shovel and one of those two cycle augers !
Yes in some cases.
I lost my job 2 months ago. But I am ok. I started my own business and it's doing fine. I rolled over my 401k into a mutual fund that is highly diverse. But, I held out a little to play with. I invested in Ford at $2.50. My Ford stock has more than doubled. My Mutual Fund has gained 9%. I will watch my investments more closely. If I see a downward trend this time I am pulling out quickly.
If we are smart and use our minds and not give in to fear, we can all make adjustments during this "reset" period and come out just fine.
Bill
Annapolis Md
The time to invest in the stock market is when Obama gets the Federal Government out of it. Then we can get a true indication of what the market is really doing.
Yes it is time to invest if you have the stomach for it. I started in late February and right know i’m up over 120% to date. This recession could be the best thing that happen for my finances
Maybe, if you're wealthy. I'm trying to recoup some of my 401K and then I'm getting out.
Why invest with this cynical crop of over-paid MBAs who don't really believe in America? They think it's a big imposition to employ Americans in any capacity, except for those positions that are absolutely necessary locally–local service and retail positions. Generally, our companies aren't good anymore, or, they simply rely upon familiar brand names–too often, such companies certainly refuse to make goods here anymore, and, they even have the gall no longer to headquarter here....
I think you get it, Jack! Unfortunately, many Americans, especially many still clinging to the right-wing of the Republican party (the party of which they've lost control–they don't understand that, either) don't get it yet: The stock market gains and company profits of the '80s and '90s were directly related to shedding costly operations here, moving them to sweatshop-labor countries, especially China, and improving import operations later. Despite what right-wing pundits think or say, the gains weren't a true sign of an improving economy and success of their policies, like their beloved tax cuts–the market gains served them as a convenient delusion that re-assured some people of their wealth for a while....
The Democratic leadership, always sheepish and stupidly polite, couldn't communicate these facts well. Mr. Obama is somewhat of an exception, but his plate is too full....
Jack, the stock market is always a risky place for us to put our money. But given the huge sell-off earlier this year, there are bound to still be some bargains to be had. The best time to get back in, however, has already passed. Our President called it right when, on March 3d, he said that it might be a good time to buy stocks. So I think the bull market for growth companies, at least for now, is likely to cool soon. Most alternative energy stock prices are already elevated. But if you intend to be in it for the long-term, there’s never a bad time to buy value.
I bought AMEX stock at 12.00 per share and doubled my money in less than 30 days . easy come, easy go, i had to sell to help my daughter with her college tuition (she will become our country's newest actuarial scientist)! GO Ceilia & AMEX!!
I don't know..with the recent bad GDP numbers,corporate earnings down and the rising unemployment , why would anyone wan't to take a chance in the market.Things are not better, that is an illusion. Who can trust the pinstriped bandits on Wallstreet anyway.Never again.
Sure, it's a good time to invest. But these days I find myself investing in things like Wal-Mart stock or Burpee Seeds rather than BofA, GM or GE.
p.s. seems to me the liklihood of stock going up when the market is so low, is more probable than the opposite. I will probably never see some of the great deals out there in my lifetime again! Great deals! I also suggest HMC
Jack, the stock market is not just about money. It's also about companies that investors believe in. That has to do with the economy and is not as dependent on the markets up and downs. If fact, it has more to do with driving the market's ups and downs. So, for investors who have researched a company, who like its' products, it's management, priorities, and direction, and who have the financial resources, yes now is a good time to get into the stock market.
Hey Jack, you ever hear of the term "dead cat bounce?" It's time to sell, my friend. Time to get out of stocks, bonds and the US of A.
NO,NO, peroid.
Right! Good luck!
This is round one. There will be a complete by the end of the year. Then they will assure you that all of the past problems are now gone thanks to KING OBAMA. This will convince aenough people to reinvest just so they can pull the rug out in 2011. I promise you this is coming...but you will be blissfully ignorant. You will probably shoot this down as just conspiracy nonsense as your mind has been perfectly trained to do. Not all us conspiracy nuts believe in aliens and bigfoot and we sure don't believe a word that a president is telling us. They all have come to power through corporations not people.
So my answer is invest heavily... but get out by the end of 2010. The result... the big corporations that run the world will lose their money and not you.
It is time to invest in stock only if you want to make sure that bankers get sufficient bonuses while you loose all your money. At least you will know that bankers will still have their job because they get retention bonuses.
I don't know much about the stock market, it always seemed like legalized gambling to me!
Marshall from NH
It depends on if you can afford to lose the amount that you invest in the market. It is sad that we have to depend on thew market to work in order for our retirements to be safe. Everytime the poorer people get sucked into the market, it goes way up and then falls big time. The wealthy are controling it.
Jack,
I'll keep listening...but lots of work since what also makes me happy is my art exhibit tomorrow and to share my work with people!
Thanks to you and to the best team!
Enjoy your weekend!
Diane Dagenais Turbide
Just go to the casino Jack. Do not pass Wall Street. Save time, aggravation and wear and tear on your soul. Blow it all on Texas Holdum and a big cigar.
Absolutely. A lot of rich people are going to come out of these economic hardships. The will to act, taking advantage of the current conditions, and sacrifice will be the road to prosperity. Knowledge over fear, people!
helping others who are struggling. being thankful my new business is doing well so that i am able to help others.
I have invested in two stocks since the recession started. I have doubled my value on one and halved the value on the other. Yet the one which is down was expected to go down, I thought I hit it at its low point but was mistaken. So far in total value I am about even but I sincerely believe that over time I will make good profits on both.
The key to investing in a down stock market is picking companies very unlikely to fail, even if their profits are down or non-existent now.
What better time is there to get into the market and invest. The correction has occurred and those with disposable cash should take advantage to fuel the recovery. Anytime is a good time to make smart choices to buy. Wish I had the cash to invest.
I think it is time to send the market back to where it belongs and forget the talk of depression and gloom. The main thing that will power the recovery is the belief of the American people, including the bankers, the investors, the rich and the poor believing that the bad times are over and the return of optimism in the everyday lives of the people.
Randy in Shreveport, LA
I have mixed feelings about this. I'm glad to see signs that maybe the recession is receding, but I don't want us to go back to business as usual. I personally believe there's a systemic problem with the economy based on consumption that needs to be addressed. The ideas of balance of trade and what not that seems to have been thrown out the window. I don't see how we can ever have a sustainable economy if we're consuming more than what we're producing.
I bought at the bottom.. so yes, now is the time for everyone else to buy the stocks I own.