In this age of low commission fees, it is easy to find yourself trading too often, especially when you are a new investor. However, countless studies and no less than an investing master, Warren Buffett, point out that market timing and frequent trading are easy ways for investors to underperform the market over the long term. Here are some quotes from the Oracle of Omaha on one of the most important aspects of successful investing. “When we own portions of outstanding businesses with outstanding managements, our favourite holding period is forever. We are just the opposite of those who hurry to sell and book profits when companies perform well but who tenaciously hang on to businesses that disappoint.”
— 1988 letter to shareholders “Lethargy bordering on sloth remains the cornerstone of our investment style: This year we neither bought nor sold a share of five of our six major holdings.”
— 1990 letter to shareholders...