William G. Hammer - The 7 Secrets of Extraordinary Investors

To my amazing wife, Emma. You have made all
the difference in this book and in my life.

NOTE TO THE READER

This publication contains the opinions and ideas of its author. The strategies outlined in this book may not be suitable for every individual, and are not guaranteed or warranted to produce any particular results. Presentation of performance data herein does not imply that similar results will be achieved in the future. Any such data is provided merely for illustrative and discussion purposes; rather than focusing on the time periods used or the results derived, the reader should focus instead on the underlying principles.

This book is sold with the understanding that neither publisher nor author, through this book, is engaged in rendering legal, tax, investment, insurance, financial, accounting, or other professional advice or services. If the reader requires such advise or services, a competent professional should be consulted. Relevant laws vary from state to state.

No warranty is made with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, and both the author and the publisher specifically disclaim any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this book.

CONTENTS

FOREWORD

Have you ever watched a conductor at the helm of an orchestra? The seeming ease with which he teases out such incredible sound, from a large group of musicians playing a vast variety of instruments, is nothing short of amazing. Music to the ears.

And yet what the conductor makes look so easy is actually the culmination of years of practice combined with a knowledge of every part, every instrument, every nuance of the score, and some subtle adjustments done on the spot based on that nights particular halls acoustics, in order to pull the whole piece together. No small feat.

In a close parallel, someone managing his own money needs to be just as nimble and acutely aware of his surroundings know all the various pieces and parts, be aware of the subtle adjustments that might be necessary, understand the various instruments available to him, all the while keeping the big picture firmly in mind in order to get the beautiful results he wants. Again, no small feat.

In Manhattan, where I was born, we had a saying invest your fortune wisely so you dont have to make it again, and again, and again. Sadly, that scenario of loss has become all too common for far too many people trying to navigate this tumultuous and world-wide economic meltdown. Yet, some extraordinary investors seem to be holding their own. How can that be?

In this book, Bill reveals the secrets of those extraordinary investors. Not just the run-of-the-mill truisms so often bandied about, but the real guts of what gets select investors their standing ovations. He lays it all out as he defines, reveals, and explains:

Why it is essential to have not just a plan, but a holistic plan.

How to find a wealth manager instead of a financial salesman, and why it matters.

The two major traps facing even the smartest investors and how to avoid them.

Why it is critical to stress-test your plan

How a single key factor determines over 90% of your long-term portfolio returns.

What types of investments are advocated by some of the worlds smartest financial minds.

Why active managers rarely beat the system.

The major estate planning mistakes you must avoid.

How to fight the biggest enemies of long-term financial independence and win.

The one secret that you cant dare ignore.

To get the most out of this book, read it from start to finish, then refer back to specific topics as necessary. While some of the concepts may be new to you, think them through before making any judgments. Be sure to consult your professional advisor, discuss what makes sense for your particular situation and avoid the horrific fate that comes from being unprepared.

Life happens change happens whether you are ready or not. Stack the odds in your favor.

Walter Timoshenko
New York City

P.S. Why the music analogy? Well, Bill is too modest to mention it, so I will. Bill is a Grammy-Award winning conductor of classical music. He didnt start out as a wealth manager. After he won his two Grammy awards, he was looking for a new career when he noticed how few people were getting good financial guidance. He decided to apply the same principles and discipline necessary to pull beautiful music out of a musical ensemble to the meticulous management of wealth. Based on the principles revealed in this book, Bill now manages money for a loyal following of happy clients, including extraordinary investors. Yet again, no small feat.