Investing 501 11-14-2011

Today you need an advanced degree to navigate the market.  Even seasoned pros are having a difficult time.  One tool that can help is to take the long view.  Do your research on what you want to buy and look 6 months to a year out.  If your research shows it has a good chance of appreciation in the next year, it is probably a safer bet than to stick your money in your mattress.  There is really no safe place to put your money any more.  Just best bets.  Even governments are giving haircuts on their bonds.
We still like gold and silver.  It has been money for thousands of years.  It has been appreciating for the last 10 years and we see no reason for it to stop.  As long as the government acts as recklessly as it has been, it should be a safe place to invest.  The stocks are poised to outperform the metals short term.  They have been lagging and this may make leverage an important factor in your decision.  Although some physical possession of gold may not be a bad idea either.
Here are charts for gold and gold stocks.  Choose for yourself.