Given the rocky performance of the stock market, it's become even more important for investors to make smart decisions. The latest investing books focus on doing one's homework and using Internet resources, rather than relying solely on professional advice.
OFF THE RECORD: What Wall Street Doesn't Want You to KnowCraig Gordon with Stephen Kindel. Crown, $24.95 (238p)
ISBN 0-609-60779-0Gordon, founding president of Off-the-Record Research, and Kindel, a former Forbes
editor, believe investors pay too much attention to wrongheaded investment advice, especially in the media. Instead, people should become "marketplace checkers"—e.g., observe new grocery store products on display, call those companies, speak with employees, review the financials and make decisions accordingly. Other strategies include checking with industry experts, comparing related firms and evaluating management. Though these sound approaches require work and a high degree of economic and financial know-how, sophisticated investors will benefit from Gordon's advice. (Aug.)
