Stocking Up on Sin

No matter what reservations you might have about companies whose stock and trade is sin¿gambling, tobacco, weapons, and the like¿there¿s no denying it: ''vice stocks'' are hot. Historically, investments related to human weaknesses have been a safe bet¿no matter how the market is performing. Over the last five years, vice based investments have outperformed the S&P 500, earning a forty two percent return, compared with a negative return for the S&P. Welcome to Wall Street vice...In Stocking Up on Sin: How to Crush the Market with Vice Based Investing, financial journalist Caroline Waxler reveals the unique potential of vice stocks for investors. With a down to earth tone, witty style, and an emphasis on doing your own research, she expertly profiles these common ''sin dustries'':TOBACCOHow the decline in U.S. litigation impacts your investing strategyGAMBLINGWhy it continues to be one of the most stable industries in the worldWEAPONS/DEFENSE/WARWhy investing in the defense/weapons sector is an effective long term strategyALCOHOLHow the nation¿s zeal for health and fitness is reshaping the product lines of alcohol companies¿and what this means for your portfolioSEXHow the combination of technology and titillation is expanding this practically recession proof industryDRUGSAn insightful look at the booming market for treating sexual dysfunctionsStocking Up on Sin also uncovers hidden stocks, or ''vice in sheep¿s clothing,'' proffered by retailers like Victoria¿s Secret. Along the way, this just in time book shows you how to manage risk by looking at any vice stock through a historical context, as well as the prevailing political and legal climate. And, in addition to helpful appendices and a sample portfolio at the end, the chapters feature a wealth of case studies, lessons that offer savvy tips based on new market trends and legal issues, and ''shopping bags'' that list each industry¿s major players. Whether you already have vice stocks in your portfolio or you are a vice investing ''virgin,'' Stocking Up on Sin shows you just how much fun¿and how profitable¿this often overlooked area of investing can be.

Pages: 256, Edition: 1, Hardcover, Wiley