|
Nobody invests to lose money. However, investments always entail some degree of risk. Be aware that:
- The higher the expected rate of return, the greater the risk; depending on market developments, you could lose some or all of your initial investment, or a greater amount.
- Some investments cannot easily be sold or converted to cash. Check to see if there is any penalty or charge if you must sell an investment quickly or before its maturity date.
- Investments in securities issued by a company with little or no operating history or published information may involve greater risk.
- Securities investments, including mutual funds, are NOT federally insured against a loss in market value.
- Securities you own may be subject to tender offers, mergers, reorganizations, or third party actions that can affect the value of your ownership interest. Pay careful attention to public announcements and information sent to you about such transactions. They involve complex investment decisions. Be sure you fully understand the terms of any offer to exchange or sell your shares before you act. In some cases, such as partial or two-tier tender offers, failure to act can have detrimental effects on your investment.
- The past success of a particular investment is no guarantee of future performance.
Protect Yourself
A high pressure sales pitch can mean trouble. Be suspicious of anyone who tells you, "Invest quickly or you will miss out on a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Remember:
- Never send money to purchase an investment based simply on a telephone sales pitch.
|