Is it really possible to consistently beat the performance of the market by investing in individual companies? Nigel Roberts (TMFNigel) says that with hard work and discipline Fools can make the most of their advantages over institutional investors, while Maynard Paton (TMFMayn) argues that the risk compared to a tracker fund is too great.
Can Fools Beat the Market?
Yes
"We Fools have some competitive advantages as individual investors: we should use them. We can be patient and focused on the long run, we can do the required hard work in trying to understand and value a company, and can make relatively few but relatively big investments when we believe the odds are stacked heavily in our favour." more
No
"If you're attempting to beat the stock market through individual stock picking, give up now! The simple fact of the matter is this: if beating the stock market was readily achievable, why aren't we all rich? For the vast majority of Fools, a regular contribution into an index tracker will give far greater long-term returns than individual stock picking ever will." more
The Yes Case
The No Case
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