Written by Benjamin Graham, 'The Intelligent Investor' is a seminal work on value investing that has inspired millions since its original publication in 1949. The book emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between investing and speculation, calculating the intrinsic value of companies, and maintaining a margin of safety. The revised edition includes updated commentary by Jason Zweig, who provides modern examples and insights to help readers apply Graham's principles in today's market. Warren Buffett, a disciple of Graham, has praised the book as 'the best book about investing ever written'.
On this week's Stansberry Investor Hour, Dan and Corey are joined by Matt Franz. Matt is founder and principal of Eagle Point Capital. The registered investment adviser aims to build wealth in the long term while avoiding the permanent loss of capital.
Matt kicks off the show by describing Eagle Point Capital's ownership mentality for buying stocks and what qualities he looks for in a company. As he explains, businesses that have very simple unit economics and that are noncyclical tend to be the best. He also zeroes in on specific metrics to evaluate stocks, the importance of owning businesses that reinvest capital, and his "replication mode" method for assessing a company's future potential. (1:41)
Next, Matt talks about whether brands can be economic moats. He urges investors not to conflate brand awareness with pricing power, using consumer-electronics company Toshiba as an example. This leads to a conversation about luxury brands, why Matt prefers distributors to retailers, and why he only invests in companies worth 10 times earnings or less. Matt then breaks down his long-term focus, discussing intrinsic value and giving listeners a reality check. (17:10)
Finally, Matt highlights the discipline it takes to be a long-term value investor, as it's human nature to want to add more to a position when it's soaring or sell shares on bad news. However, when you own good businesses, it's best to sit on your hands and do nothing. Matt also shares some guidelines Eagle Point Capital follows when searching for stocks in terms of market cap, industry, risk factor, and cyclicality. (37:53)
Stansberry Investor Hour 