Let’s eavesdrop on Q (the anxious investor) and A (the conventionally-wise advisor) as they discuss what’s eating at Q…
Q: The market just had its worst quarter since the 1st quarter of 2009…
A: That’s what they tell me…
Q: Should I get out of stocks?
A: Is it time to spend the money?
Q: Well no, I just don’t want to lose any more…
A: Have you lost any lately?
Q: Well duh, it was the worst quarter in 3 years!
A: Yes, I know that… But how did you lose money?
Q: What are you talking about? I lost money because you have 60% of my portfolio in stocks…
A: Yes, I know that, but I don’t see how you lost any money…
Q: Have you looked at my account lately?
A: Of course…
Q: You haven’t noticed how much it’s down?
A: Oh I get it – you think you lost money because your account value’s down…
Q: You think I didn’t?
A: Well, the way you look at it, you did.