There are different ways of earning money from investments besides buying low and selling high. In fact, an investment that produces immediate income, rather than increasing in value is an example of a sideways view of the market, and an investment that made money in a dropping market is an example of a decreasing view.

Where could you find out more? You don’t have to jump into every opportunity you hear about. In fact, you don’t have to invest in any of them, but you can start to ask different advisors from different backgrounds in different industries about possibilities for alternative or creative investing. For example, securities options, futures, commodities, foreign exchange, derivatives, initial public offerings, private companies, etc. are all more creative investments.  There are different types of returns and different types of risks. When you have a proper financial foundation including knowledge and skills these types of investments can be appropriate. Without a proper foundation, they might look attractive and sound appealing and to some people these are low risk investments. When everything else is in place – have fun – there is great diversity, wonderful opportunities to make great returns, and make a difference while you’re at it.