8A Class: The Stock Market
Okay parents, I would like to get your response to the following two questions. First, if you could make an investment and gain (make a profit) between $10,000 and $15,000 in the next 4 weeks, what would you do with the profit from your investment?
Second, your 8th grader will be investing in a variety of stocks. What criteria or direction would you give him or her as they pick stocks for your portfolio and what are some good company stocks you would recommend (if you know of any).
Thanks for your time. I know your child will do their best on your behalf.
Mr. Hames
Mr. Hames Class 
Posted by Sally Kurth on November 17, 2010 at 4:50 pm
This sounds like a great project and I am looking forward to making a profit!
I would invest the profit in my husbands new business Senior Transition Services.
Based on what I am hearing regarding stocks I would like some of my money invested in international stocks. I would like to stay away from government bonds. Companies focused on Green endeavors and the aging market would be very interesting to me….
Good Luck!
Sally
Posted by Barb Voornas on November 17, 2010 at 5:13 pm
I would invest in municipal bonds with the highest ratings. Traditionally, we have done this with extra savings and this has always kept our balanced investment portfolio very healthy, even in difficult times. I would only invest in a small amount of stock. Usually I choose stocks based on a company I am familiar with and have seen good performance (in running the business), not just on paper. When Starbucks was in its early years, it turned out to be a great investment. Another investment for me would be possibly Walmart.
Posted by victoria on November 17, 2010 at 5:23 pm
I would definitely reinvest most of the gain into the market.
The stocks I would recommend in renewable engery stocks and also green stocks
Posted by Chelle Simms on November 17, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Q1. I would tithe 10%, then I would reinvest 85%. The remaining 5% would be used for something I need or want.
Q2. Vice Funds are usually consistent in growth, even in a bad economy. Stock that is computer related would be good, because the more technology grows, it should also. (ie. Google, Apple). Gold is at an all-time high, if the economy stays as it is, it should continue to rise. Publicly traded auction houses are also good now, as people are selling collections and heirlooms due to the economy.
Posted by Lauraine White on November 17, 2010 at 11:25 pm
My husband and I are interested in precious metals, commodities, energy sources, start-up companies, and bonds. We are a little conservative and are looking for ROI (Return on Investment) of approximately 8 – 10%.
Posted by Ron Ito on November 17, 2010 at 11:31 pm
A diversafied protfolio. Mutual fund such as index 500. I would recommend companies that pay dividends. Sector fund such as power, financial, and international.
Posted by Suma Shankar on November 21, 2010 at 12:52 am
I would donate some for charity and re-invest possibly in bio-tech companies, start ups including 23 & me. I would look into APPLE, Google and GE as they are going public.
Posted by Brian on November 21, 2010 at 1:10 pm
We would pay off some debt, and with anything left over, I would boost the college funds. Of course, my son is certain that’s not necessary since he’s convinced the NHL will come calling before that. I would be a fairly aggressive investor today, investing in a broad range of sectors but with a particular focus on the technology and international industries.