Reviews for History of World Societies (Custom)

The average rating for History of World Societies (Custom) based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2011-09-10 00:00:00 Zezinho Welter A solid book on stock market cycles that complements authors such as Shiller, Graham and Hussman (author of the Hussman Report) and provides a good counter to more bullish writers such as Jemery Siegel (Stocks for the Long Run). Includes great data and info graphics on investor performance and valuation cycles. Convincingly argues against buy-and-hold index investing by showing that for 99% of investors it makes a big difference when they invest in the cycle; as few people truly have an investment horizon of 30+ years (the minimum time required to iron out short term market fluctuations.) One disappointment was the chapter on individual value stock selection which was very weak (especially given that the author doesn't invest in individual stocks). Rather consult Ben Graham on the subject. The last third of the book can also be skipped as it covers less relevant subjects such as how to choose a hedge fund (assuming you have $1mm in assets!) Generally a great read and well worth the time investment.

Review # 2 was written on 2008-10-19 00:00:00 Pedro Martinez The first half of the book is ancient history now as it was written between the Dotcom bust and the Great Recession. It is easy to skim through the section and confirm the belief that history does repeat itself. The second half gets down to the premise of value investing. There are a few chapters with the real meat of how to invest successfully versus the buy and hold mentality. I recommend the book for those chapters and its value as a reference guide.