Understanding Investment Analysis
The purpose of investment analysis is to determine the likelihood that an investment will perform and how well it suits a particular investor. Key factors in analyzing investments include the appropriate entry price, the expected time horizon for holding an investment, and the role the investment will play in the overall portfolio.
When performing an investment analysis of a mutual fund, for example, an investor observes the fund’s performance over time relative to its benchmark and major competitors. The comparison between comparable funds includes the analysis of differences in terms of performance, expense ratios, management stability, sector weighting, investment style and asset allocation.
In investing, one size does not fit all. Just as there are many different types of investors with unique goals, time horizons, and incomes, there are investment opportunities that fit those individual parameters.