Minimize self-inflicted damage by spreading bets (diversification), acting rarely (low turnover), and staying away from personal weaknesses. 2. The Development Framework
Aswath Damodaran's framework for is not a single set of rules, but a guide to finding a personal approach based on core beliefs about how markets work. Damodaran, often called the "Dean of Valuation," argues that there is no "best" philosophy, only the one that best fits an individual's psychology, risk tolerance, and time horizon. 1. Definition and Core Principles
An investment philosophy is a coherent way of thinking about markets and why they make mistakes. It is broader than a strategy (e.g., "buying low PE stocks" is a strategy, not a philosophy).
Every asset generating cash flow has an intrinsic value that can be estimated.
Damodaran categorizes approaches based on their view of the "gap" between price and value:
Damodaran outlines a three-step process for developing a personal philosophy:
Choose a philosophy that aligns with your specific risk aversion, time horizon, portfolio size, and tax status. 3. Key Categories of Investment Philosophies
Master the basics of risk measurement and valuation.
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