Howard Marks: The Difference Between Good Companies And Good Investments

In a recent interview with Barron’s, Howard Marks reflects on his early career in finance, recalling how banks in the 1970s invested heavily in the “Nifty Fifty” — a group of America’s fastest-growing companies, considered unbeatable regardless of their valuation.

However, despite the strength of these companies, investors who held onto their stocks for five years saw losses exceeding 90% due to overpaying. Howard underscores that while the quality of an asset becomes more important over time, price remains a crucial factor.

He cautions that owning a great asset doesn’t guarantee a great investment; success hinges on paying the right price. According to Marks, the key is not just buying good companies but buying them at the right price.

It’s not what you buy; it’s what you pay that determines a good investment. Now, the longer your time horizon, the quality of the thing you buy matters more and the price you paid matters a bit less.

Share the news

Disclaimer of liability

The above has been prepared by Børsgade ApS for information purposes and cannot be regarded as a solicitation or recommendation to buy or sell any security. Nor can the information etc. be regarded as recommendations or advice of a legal, accounting or tax nature. Børsgade cannot be held liable for losses caused by customers’/users’ actions – or lack thereof – based on the information in the above. We have made every effort to ensure that the information in the above is complete and accurate, but cannot guarantee this and accept no liability for errors or omissions.

Readers are advised that investing may involve a risk of loss that cannot be determined in advance, and that past performance and price development cannot be used as a reliable indicator of future performance and price development. For further information please contact info@borsgade.dk

You might also find this interesting:

Francois Rochon: Navigating Market Crashes

Francois Rochon, CIO of Giverny Capital, recently shared his approach to navigating market crashes on the Meb Faber Podcast. His perspective emphasizes acceptance, preparation, and strategic action rather than panic or futile attempts at market timing.

Howars Marks: Take advantage Of Trumps Own Goal

In his latest memo “Nobody Knows (Yet Again)”, Howard Marks addresses the profound uncertainty facing investors and policymakers amid recent upheavals in global trade and economic policy. Drawing on parallels to the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic, Howard emphasizes the limits of forecasting in unprecedented situations and the importance of rational, flexible decision-making despite the absence of clear answers.

François Rochon: Quality over Diversification

In this recent interview, François Rochon, founder of Giverny Capital, shares his insights on optimal portfolio strategy. François emphasizes a balanced and disciplined investment philosophy that prioritizes quality over excessive diversification.