Investing Basics: Selecting your Broker-Dealer

Before making a securities investment, you must decide which brokerage firm – also referred to as a broker/dealer – and sales representative – also referred to as a stockbroker, account executive, or registered representative – to use.   Before making these decisions you should: Think through your financial goals and objectives.               Talk with potential sales representatives at several firms. Meet them face to face and ask each sales representative about his or her investment […]

Debunking Myths about Investing

There are common myths about investing that can often scare off any investor. Many investors wonder whether or not investing in stocks is worth it, but it is important to keep a realistic view of the stock market as one which can either increase or decrease your net worth. Regardless of the real issues, common myths often arise. Here are five of those myths. Myth #1 – It’s hard to get started in investing. Experts only. One of the biggest […]

Don’t become the next victim of Affinity Fraud

Fraudsters come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few con artists who integrate themselves into your community, or religious, professional or social group, like ‘a thief in the night’, and influence your leaders, and by extension your peers, to invest in a fake investment. At the time you do not realise that the “investment” is actually a scam, and you subsequently become unwitting victims of the fraud.  These fraudsters exploit the trust and friendship that exist in […]

Investment decisions to help you avoid scams

It does not matter if you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, anyone can fall victim to scam artists and fraudsters. Here are some guidelines to help you make more informed decisions and avoid scams.  Ensure your investment in securities is secure. Securities offered to the public must be registered with the Trinidad and Tobago Securities and Exchange Commission (TTSEC).  Registration is important because it provides investors access to key information about the company’s management, products, services, and finances. […]