Gambling and investing tend not to fall in the same sentence, yet the line between the two can be blurry at times. Each can force images of losing it all or winning it big in a single moment. When you picture gambling, it’s the 24 hour gambling mecca of Vegas, a cheering craps table, the alarms of the slot machine. A place to let loose, have some fun, spend some money.
Gambling can be broken down into two categories. There are the games of pure chance, like the lottery, slot machines or roulette. These require absolutely no thought or skill to play and even less to win. I guess you could argue that picking numbers requires some thought, but it’s about as much as one would put into breathing. And the odds of winning are the same every time you play.
Then there are the skill games, like blackjack, poker or baccarat. Skill isn’t a requirement per say, even the most unskilled player can get lucky. But your chances are increased significantly when you have some knowledge of the game. Knowing that the odds change each play and can be in your favor. It can range from speculation to guarantee. Yet it’s tossed in with the lotteries and slot machines because it’s not common knowledge to everyone. Unfortunately the same can be said about investing. Continue Reading…
Having a job is a necessary reality for the majority of us. For many it’s a means to an end, a way to support themselves, their family. It covers the bills, puts food on the table and a roof over their head. Where the best part of the week is getting home or the weekend. How many can actually say they are working their dream job? And if they can’t, what would it take to get the opportunity? The reason I ask all this is a story I came across earlier in the week.
There are many reasons people choose to avoid stock investments. With so many stocks to choose from finding the right ones to invest in can be overwhelming. Even knowing where to begin can be difficult. But it shouldn’t be. Finding potential stock investments abound everywhere and can come from the most unconventional sources including 
The jobs number came in last week way below expectations. With a big drop in the government sector. Mostly at the state and local level. Mark it down as a continued side effect when the budget and debt become political fodder. But trying to jump start a faltering economy with government layoffs is a bit backwards.
I’m a big believer in the idea that as tax payers, it is our civic duty to pay the lowest taxes possible. I’m not suggesting tax evasion, jail time shouldn’t be a possible side effect here. But if the tax system offers a possibility to lower your taxes, take advantage of it.