Combine math, technical mumbo-jumbo and the possibility of losing hard-earned money and the stock market can become an intimidating place to traverse.
It is a misconception that only professional stockbrokers can safely tread the waters of the vast financial ocean without drowning. That intimidation can keep people from achieving their investment goals.
The truth is anyone can buy stock and, with planning and good information, be successful with it.
That’s what Col. Jamie Houston, commander, Dental Activity, in conjunction with Fort Polk’s Army Community Service’s Military Saves Campaign, taught Soldiers and military Families at “Investing in the stock market” Feb. 22 at ACS. Houston is a self-taught financial “guru,” who joked that he’s a good teacher because he has “lost” money along the way. But he’s quick to add that he now makes more than he loses.
Houston taught two sessions about investing in the stock market. The lesson began with a brief explanation about why most people don’t achieve their financial goals. “It’s all about discipline. If you don’t have a goal, you’re going to spend your money. Knowledge and debt control are the keys to good finances. You have to have money to make money,” said Houston.
He defined some common investing terms and effective ways to get the most bang for your buck. Dividends, mutual funds, portfolios and more were discussed.
He said the availability of stock information online makes it easier than ever to delve into the depths of personal money management. “You can find all you need to know online. It’s amazing how much information they give you. You don’t even need brokers anymore,” said Houston.
One participant, Capt. Andrea Jackson, 115th Combat Support Hospital, said she thought the presentation was outstanding. “I knew it was going to be a good opportunity to learn.
Reading this kind of information from a book can be intimidating, but Colonel Houston broke down the information and explained it in a way I could understand and relate to. I’m definitely going to take his advice and try it,” said Jackson.
Staff Sgt. Robert Franklin, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, United States Army Garrison, has tried investing. “I came today because I wanted to learn about investing money and retirement plans. My wife and I have done a little investing. We dabbled, but soon we would get lost and not know where to go next,” said Franklin.
He said receiving an overall understanding of investing was the most important thing he learned from the seminar. “I think what he (Houston) had to say helped me understand stocks in ways I had never considered before,” said Franklin.
The Military Saves program teaches Soldiers and Family members about difficult financial subjects and gives them the tools for financial success. For more information about financial programs call 531-1957.
