It was not so hard to earn money in 2013 if you invested in U.S stocks. 9 out of 10 stocks in the S&P 500 was in positive territory. But everything associated with gold gave you losses. Did you sell the gold related investments in 2013 and what are you gonna do with it next year?
The gold is down about 30% in 2013, so owning a stake in a gold mine was not the smart way to make money this year. The worst U.S large Cap stocks was Newmont Mining. The second largest gold producer is down about 50%, and 30% of its corporate office staff is eliminated.
They are not only building cars in China. They are building factories to meet the demand for cars because the sales of automobiles are surging in China. The main partner of Ford Motor is Chongqing Changan Automobile Co. (000625). Changan`s earnings per share is up 400% and are the best International stock!
To be an investor is like being a school student. You have to do your homework every day. I don`t say you have to follow every stock you have in your portfolio with every tick of intraday trading.
What I prefer is to follow the stocks and the stock market for important changes over time. Sometimes it is important to evaluate and update the portfolio, like now, in the year end.
You can save money and take advantage of last minute tax savings in preparation of your portfolio. If you do all the things alone, you may do some work. You have to prepare your portfolio for the next year. I have created a few things to consider:
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Tax planning. Take a good look at your portfolio and check your winners and losers. You can offset capital gains with capital losses. If you have lost everything in one stock, you can sell it before the end of the year to offset any pending gains you may have on other stocks. Check the IRS rules and talk with a tax adviser before you take any tax decisions.
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Goals. What is your goals for 2014? What have happened so far this year? What do you think will happen next year? What is your plan for next year? Do you want to spend more money in the financial markets? How will your economy be next year? marriage or divorce? Some kids? What about you family situation? Some dramatic changes in 2013, or next year? You get the idea. Create a trading plan for 2014.
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The right balance. Do you have all you eggs in one bag? What is your mix today. Do you only go for stocks? Do you have bonds? Currency? Do you have the right mix in your portfolio or do you need some adjustments?
2013 have been a great year in the stock market. Many investors have done it better than the market in 2013. Is this going to continue next year? Try to follow the market and read the news and do as best as you can to understand them. Don`t always listen to everything people say on TV, and think by yourself. Be smart and look for great opportunities and be a winner in the market next year!
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Shiny bull. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Shiny bull nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in precious metal products, commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Shiny bull and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.
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