Paul Samuelson: Investing in Boring Things
on Sunday, August 8, 2010Paul Samuelson Money Quote compares investing to watching the grass growing or paint drying – as it should not be considered exciting, just a routine process.
“Investing should be more like watching paint dry or watching grass grow. If you want excitement, take $800 and go to Las Vegas” — Paul Samuelson
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In this quote, economist Paul Samuelson seems to be advising a prudent, patient approach to investing. By comparing investing successfully to “watching paint dry” or “watching grass grow”, Samuelson implies it involves slow, steady gains over long periods rather than dramatic short-term changes.
His reference to using “$800” for “excitement” in Las Vegas further contrasts a speculative, high-risk strategy with a disciplined investment strategy aimed at steady growth over time.
Overall, the quote conveys Samuelson’s view that investing for long-term financial goals is best served by a calm, disciplined process focused on sustainability rather than thrill-seeking bets that could end in loss. He emphasizes that true success in investing mirrors the gradual increases seen in natural processes like drying or plant growth.
Birthday: May 15, 1915 – Death December 13, 2009