Here are four investment principles that Warren Buffett has typically used to make investment decisions throughout his career. Think of this as a template you can use to figure out how to buy stocks that have the potential to make you a lot of money in the stock market:
1) Understand the business in which you are investing. You cannot make money in the stock market unless you understand the basic fundamentals of the business whose stock you are purchasing. Look for businesses within your circle of competence. But remember, having a large circle of competence is less important than having one with a well-defined perimeter.
2) When you evaluate a stock you want to buy, look for sound fundamental economics. Most investors need to think about companies that have a substantial economic advantage. In some ways, you can think of this as a castle with a large moat around it. For example, Coca-Cola’s brand name has represented thirst quenching enjoyment for generations. No competitor can buy this type of bread loyalty for any amount of money.
3) It is critical that the company whose stock you are considering buying have competent leadership. The overwhelming majority of companies with a sustainable economic advantage need honest, capable leadership if the company is to maintain its lead in the marketplace. That is the only way in which you can keep the business viable and profitable over the long-term.
4) People who want to know how to buy stocks need to realize that buying at the right price is critical. Your purchase must be made at the right price if the investment is to pay off over the long term.
In summary, those who want to know how to buy stocks needs to (1) understand the companies whose stock they are considering buying, (2) the stock must have favorable long-term potential, (3) the company you want to invest in must be managed by smart leaders, and (4) you need to buy the stock when the price is low enough to offer you a phenomenal return on investment.