Sell before the holidays. Stock prices tend to rise on the last trading day before major holidays.

Sell before the holidays. Stock prices tend to rise on the last trading day before major holidays.

Have the courage of your own convictions and don't be swayed by friends who boast about their financial home runs. Last year's winners are often this year's losers.

Bet on black. Buy low-debt or no-debt companies. When the economy is in trouble, these companies usually have enough cash on hand to stay out of trouble. And they seldom need to borrow when interest rates are high.

Give a cold shoulder to cold callers. Never invest in anything based on a phone call from someone you don't know or whose office is a post office box.

The higher the yield, the higher the risk. A high yield is designed to attract investors. An outrageously high yield attracts fools.

When a corporation goes into the marketplace to buy back its own stock, it means management thinks the stock is undervalued. This is a smart time to buy.