Neutral impactEconomy
Quote of the day by Hetty Green: "I buy when things are low and no one wants them. I keep them until they go up and people are crazy to get them."
Economic Times 1 hr ago·25 Sept 2026, 2:16 pm
Hetty Green, a legendary 19th-century investor, built her fortune on a simple but powerful principle: buy when others are fearful and sell when they are greedy. Her famous quote captures the essence of contrarian investing. Instead of following the herd, she sought out undervalued assets during market downturns when pessimism is at its peak. This strategy requires a strong stomach and a long-term perspective, focusing on the underlying value of an asset rather than short-term price fluctuations.
For today's investors, Green's philosophy remains highly relevant. It serves as a reminder that market cycles are inevitable and that extreme pessimism often presents buying opportunities. By maintaining a focus on fundamentals and resisting the urge to chase short-term trends, investors can potentially build wealth over time. This approach is particularly useful during volatile periods, helping investors stay disciplined and avoid making impulsive decisions based on current market sentiment.
Looking ahead, the key for investors is to remain patient and avoid emotional trading. Green’s success depended on her ability to hold assets through periods of low prices until market sentiment shifted. Investors should continue to monitor economic indicators and company performance to identify genuine value. Ultimately, the goal is to buy when prices are low and hold until the market recognizes the true worth of the investment, regardless of short-term noise.
Key takeaways
- Category: Economy.
Why it matters
A routine update. Use the price and stock snapshot to gauge how the market is responding.
