Top Infrastructure Stocks: Key Insights for Investors


Intro
The infrastructure sector encompasses various industries, ranging from utilities and transportation to telecommunications and construction. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of leading infrastructure stocks. Understanding this domain is essential for investors who seek to navigate the complexities of market trends, financial indicators, and economic influences. With global economies increasingly recognizing the importance of infrastructure, this analysis highlights critical aspects to consider before making investment decisions.
Market Overview
Current Market Conditions
The infrastructure market currently experiences a blend of challenges and opportunities. Recent government policies favoring infrastructure development are driving growth. Additionally, post-pandemic recovery efforts have resulted in increased spending on public projects. The demand for modernization in transportation and energy sectors is ever-growing. With technological advancements, new investments appear essential for maintaining competitive advantage.
Key Economic Indicators
Investors should pay attention to key economic indicators, such as GDP growth, interest rates, and inflation rates. Strong GDP growth typically leads to increased investment in infrastructure projects as governments prioritize economic stability. Conversely, rising interest rates can increase borrowing costs for infrastructure companies, impacting their profitability. Furthermore, inflation can erode the purchasing power of consumers, influencing demand for infrastructure services.
Major Market Trending Factors
Several factors impact the infrastructure market:
- Government policies: Legislative measures that support infrastructure development can create new investment opportunities.
- Technological changes: Innovations such as renewable energy technologies affect infrastructure investments, guiding shifts towards sustainable options.
- Global trends: Factors like globalization and urbanization contribute to changes in infrastructure needs and priorities.
Stock Analysis
Stock Performance Review
Evaluating stock performance within the infrastructure sector requires a thorough assessment of company metrics. Performance often mirrors broader economic trends. Investors must analyze companies based on quarterly profits, revenue growth, and stock price evolution.
Fundamental Analysis
Investors should conduct a fundamental analysis by looking at key metrics like PE ratios and dividend yields.
Price to Earnings (PE) Ratio: This indicates how much investors are willing to pay per dollar of earnings. A lower PE ratio may suggest that the stock is undervalued.
Dividend Yield: Many infrastructure stocks provide attractive dividends, making them appealing to income-focused investors. A higher yield can reflect a company's financial health and commitment to returning capital to shareholders.
Technical Analysis
Technical analysis involves studying past price movements to forecast future trends. Investors may utilize chart patterns and indicators like moving averages.
- Chart Patterns: Identifying formations like triangles or head and shoulders can signal potential price movements.
- Indicators: Common indicators like RSI (Relative Strength Index) help determine overbought or oversold conditions in stock.
Investment Strategies
Long-Term vs Short-Term Investing
Long-term investors often seek companies with stable growth potential, focusing on fundamentals. Conversely, short-term investors may capitalize on quick market fluctuations for immediate gains. Each strategy has its risks, so personal investment goals should guide the decision.
Value vs Growth Investing
Value investing centers on acquiring stocks that appear undervalued, with potential for future growth. On the other hand, growth investing focuses on companies expected to grow at an above-average rate. Investors must research to align their strategies with market conditions.
Risk Management Techniques
To mitigate risk, investors can diversify their portfolios across different infrastructure sectors. Setting stop-loss orders can also protect against significant losses.
- Asset allocation: Distributing investments among various asset types to manage risk effectively.
- Hedging: Using options or other financial instruments to offset potential losses.
Recommended Stocks
Top Stock Picks for the Month
As market conditions are dynamic, itโs vital to stay updated with the latest trends. Current top picks include companies like Johnson Controls International and Brookfield Infrastructure Partners. These firms demonstrate strong fundamentals and growth prospects within the sector.
Sector-Wise Recommendations
Investors should consider focusing on specific infrastructure sectors, such as:
- Energy: Companies like NextEra Energy take advantage of the shift toward renewable sources.
- Utilities: Firms like Dominion Energy offer stability and consistent dividends.
Emerging Stocks to Watch
Emerging stocks present high growth potential but often come with higher risks. Companies like Terraform Power show promise in the renewable energy market, but careful assessment is necessary.
Financial Education Resources
Articles and Guides for Beginners
For those new to investing, resources like Investopedia and Morningstar offer comprehensive guides on basic financial concepts and investment strategies.


Advanced Investment Strategies
Seasoned investors may wish to explore advanced resources or attend seminars on topics like options trading and portfolio optimization.
Tools for Financial Planning
Utilizing various financial planning tools, like calculators for retirement or investment growth, can provide clarity on future financial goals. Websites like NerdWallet provide useful resources for financial planning.
"Investors need to be proactive and adaptable, staying informed about key market changes to maximize their investment returns."
By understanding the infrastructure landscape, investors can make strategic choices that align with their objectives.
Overview of Infrastructure Sector
The infrastructure sector serves as a backbone for economic development and growth across all nations. It encompasses a wide range of services including transportation, energy, water supply, and telecommunications. This sector plays a vital role in maintaining the functional capabilities of a society, making it essential for both economic stability and progress. By investing in infrastructure, governments and private entities can enhance productivity, provide essential services, and create job opportunities.
Definition and Importance
Infrastructure refers to the basic physical systems and structures needed for the operation of a society. These include roads, bridges, airports, utilities, and communication networks. The importance of infrastructure cannot be understated as it facilitates trade, connects communities, and enhances quality of life. Furthermore, it is a significant driver of economic growth. Enhanced infrastructure leads to increased efficiency in transportation and logistics, directly impacting the cost of goods and services.
Current Market Trends
The infrastructure sector has seen considerable shifts due to various factors in the last few years. Post-pandemic recovery efforts have brought renewed focus on building and upgrading infrastructure. There is a growing demand for smart infrastructure solutions that incorporate technology to improve efficiency and sustainability. Governments worldwide are also leaning towards public-private partnerships as a means to finance large projects. The increase in global investments aimed at renewable energy sources further highlights a positive trend towards infrastructure adaptation in response to climate change.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the future of the infrastructure sector appears robust. Analysts predict a significant increase in both public and private sector investments as governments commit to improving aging infrastructure. The ongoing emphasis on sustainable development will likely prioritize projects that align with environmental standards. Moreover, advancements in technology will perhaps lead to innovations that can enhance the capacity and reliability of infrastructure systems. Overall, stakeholders in this sector can expect promising prospects as planning and execution in infrastructure development gain momentum.
Factors Driving Infrastructure Investments
The infrastructure investments are pivotal for the development and maintenance of society. These investments not only support economic growth but also serve as pillars enhancing accessibility and efficiency. Understanding what drives these investments is essential for potential investors. This section dives into the factors that motivate infrastructure investments, focusing on governmnet policies, technological advancements, and environmental considerations.
Government Policies and Infrastructure Spending
Government policies heavily influence infrastructure projects. Initiatives such as stimulus packages can increase public spending on infrastructure, creating more opportunities for private investment. Regulatory frameworks also dictate the pace of project approvals and funding allocation. For instance, the U.S. infrastructure bill introduced significant funds to modernize roads, bridges, and transit systems. This type of policy not only boosts immediate construction jobs but also generates long-term economic benefits.
Infrastructure spending is often seen as a key component of economic resilience. Policymakers recognize this and may prioritize infrastructure in their agendas, especially during economic downturns.
"Investment in infrastructure is not just an expenditure; rather, itโs an investment in our future and economic stability."
Technological Advancements
Innovations in technology play a crucial role in reshaping the infrastructure landscape. Emerging technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy solutions are altering how infrastructure projects are conceived and executed. For example, the adoption of building information modeling (BIM) allows for improved project planning and execution, reducing costs and timeframes. Moreover, companies focusing on sustainable infrastructure, like Tesla with its solar products, are appealing to a growing market that values eco-friendliness.
Advancements also facilitate more efficient resource management. Smart city technologies can optimize traffic and utility systems, leading to lower operational costs. Investors should pay attention to companies that are integrating these technologies into their projects.
Environmental Considerations
Today, environmental considerations are increasingly central to infrastructure investments. Investors are more concerned about climate change and its potential effects on infrastructure durability. Sustainable practices, such as using recycled materials and seeking LEED certification, are not just ethical choices but can also lead to long-term savings and efficiency. Furthermore, businesses involved in renewable energy projects, like NextEra Energy, illustrate the shift towards more environmentally responsible infrastructure pursuits.
Regulatory pressures also push companies to consider their environmental impact. Compliance costs related to environmental standards can affect financial performance. Hence, assessing a company's commitment to sustainability can be crucial for investors neggotiating potential risks and returns. Understanding these environmental factors not only ensures compliance but also aligns with the growing investor preference for socially responsible investments.
In summary, the factors driving infrastructure investments are multi-faceted. Awareness of government policies, technological advancements, and environmental considerations can guide individual investors and financial professionals in making informed decisions. Recognizing these elements is step one in the journey toward successful infrastructure investment.
Key Performance Metrics for Infrastructure Stocks
Performance metrics are essential to gauge the viability and potential of infrastructure stocks. They help investors analyze how well a company is doing financially and can guide them in making informed decisions. Strong performance metrics indicate that a company is likely to withstand economic downturns and capitalize on market growth. Here, we will explore several key metrics that are particularly relevant to infrastructure investments.
Revenue and Earnings Analysis
Revenue is a primary indicator of a company's financial health. In infrastructure, consistent revenue growth is crucial. It often reflects successful project completion and continuous contracts. Investors should analyze revenue from both operational activities and new project acquisitions. Earnings, often expressed as Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA), provide deeper insights. This metric emphasizes operational profitability by stripping non-operational costs. A comparison of revenue growth to industry averages can reveal if a company is outpacing or lagging behind its competitors.
One critical factor to consider is revenue diversification. Companies with diverse revenue streams can often better manage economic shifts. For instance, a firm reliant on government contracts alone may face more significant risks. In contrast, those with mixed ventures, including public-private partnerships and private investments, may present a safer bet.
"A strong revenue and earnings analysis can uncover hidden risks and opportunities, ensuring better investment choices."
Debt to Equity Ratio
The Debt to Equity Ratio (D/E) is another fundamental metric for evaluating infrastructure stocks. This ratio signifies the proportion of debt a company uses to finance its operations compared to its shareholder equity. A high D/E indicates a greater reliance on borrowed funds. This can be risky, especially in a sector prone to large capital expenditures and delayed returns.
A D/E close to 1 suggests a balanced approach between debt and equity financing. In contrast, a ratio significantly higher than this may raise red flags for investors. A consistently high D/E might indicate potential financial instability, especially during economic downturns, where revenues can dip suddenly.
Furthermore, understanding the context behind the D/E ratio is necessary. Some companies strategically utilize debt for growth investments, potentially leading to higher future profits. Therefore, examining the narrative behind the numbers is crucial for a comprehensive analysis.


Dividend Yield
Dividend yield is an important metric for many investors focusing on income generation. It represents the annual dividend payment divided by the current stock price. In infrastructure, many companies have a history of distributing dividends due to stable cash flows from long-term projects.
A higher dividend yield can denote attractive returns for investors, especially in a market often defined by slow growth. It is essential to ensure that the companyโs dividends are sustainable. A sudden increase in yield may indicate underlying issues, like falling stock prices rather than robust financial health.
Investors should also analyze the dividend payout ratio, which shows the percentage of earnings distributed as dividends. A safety margin exists when the payout ratio is below 70%, indicating room for growth or unexpected expenses without cutting dividends. Such insights are invaluable for selecting stocks that can provide consistent returns over time.
Top Infrastructure Stocks in the Market
Understanding top infrastructure stocks is essential for anyone looking to invest in this pivotal sector. These stocks not only offer potential financial returns but also play a critical role in the economic development of regions. Investing in these companies can provide exposure to various projects, ranging from transportation networks to energy distribution systems. The volatility within this market, paired with regulatory and economic factors, makes it necessary for investors to perform due diligence.
Company Profiles and Performance
When examining the leading infrastructure stocks, it is crucial to analyze individual company profiles. Each profile provides insights into the performance metrics, historical growth, and financial strength of the company. Key players such as Brookfield Infrastructure Partners, American Tower Corporation, and Crown Castle International stand out due to their impressive track records.
For instance, Brookfield Infrastructure Partners has been known to focus on high-quality assets and a diverse portfolio. Their revenue comes from utilities, transport, and energy sectors. This diversification helps mitigate risks and stabilizes cash flow.
On the other hand, American Tower Corporation specializes in telecommunications infrastructure. With the rise in mobile data consumption, this company has experienced significant growth. Their strategy of acquiring new towers and maintaining existing ones places them in a solid position for future growth.
The performance of these companies is often measured by key indicators such as revenue growth, operating income, and returns on equity. Understanding these metrics provides investors with a clearer picture of how these companies align with their financial goals.
Comparative Analysis
A comparative analysis of top infrastructure stocks allows investors to identify strengths and weaknesses among them. This section often involves evaluating financial ratios such as Price-to-Earnings (P/E), Price-to-Book (P/B), and Dividends. For instance, Crown Castle International tends to provide a higher dividend yield compared to its peers, making it an attractive option for income-focused investors.
Investors must also consider the specific market each company operates within. A company focused on renewable energy, for example, may present different risks and opportunities compared to one involved in traditional utilities. The financial resilience of these companies often reflects how they adapt to changing economic environments.
In summary, taking the time to compare these companies based on multiple financial dimensions gives investors a robust framework for decision-making. This analysis ultimately aids in selecting stocks that align with individual investment strategies.
"Investing in infrastructure stocks not only aims for returns but also supports essential services and projects within society."
By integrating this knowledge, investors can navigate the complexities of the infrastructure sector and confidently make enlightened investment choices.
Sector-specific Risks and Challenges
Understanding the risks and challenges specific to the infrastructure sector is vital for investors. This knowledge enables them to assess potential downsides, as well as opportunities within the market. While infrastructure investments are often viewed as stable, various sector-specific factors can impact performance significantly. Investors need to be aware of these elements while formulating their strategies.
Regulatory Challenges
Regulatory challenges can create hurdles in infrastructure projects. Government policies can change rapidly, leading to uncertainty in the market. For example, shifts in zoning laws or environmental regulations may significantly delay projects, if not lead to cancellations. These changes can impact the financial stability of companies within this sector and cause fluctuations in stock prices.
Moreover, navigating through regulations often requires substantial legal and administrative resources. Firms that do not allocate sufficient resources to comply may face costly fines or project shutdowns. Investors should pay close attention to the regulatory environment in which their potential investments operate.
Market Volatility
Market volatility is another inherent risk in the infrastructure domain. Factors such as changes in interest rates, economic slowdowns, or geopolitical tensions affect stock performance. Infrastructure stocks may be perceived as safer investments, yet they can still experience sharp declines during economic downturns.
Additionally, commodity prices can influence infrastructure stock valuations significantly. For instance, a sudden rise in material costs can erode profit margins. Investors are often advised to stay informed about macroeconomic indicators and market sentiments to mitigate risks associated with volatility.
Investment Horizon Risks
Investment horizon risks are crucial for anyone considering infrastructure investments. Infrastructure projects often have long timelines; thus, investors must align their investment strategies with their time frames. Those seeking short-term gains may find these investments less appealing due to the prolonged nature of returns.
Long-term investments in infrastructure may yield solid returns, but they also can expose investors to risks from changing market conditions or project execution delays over time. A careful evaluation of financial goals and market dynamics can help in selecting appropriate time horizons for investment.
"Investors must thoroughly assess the landscape of risks and challenges specific to the infrastructure sector to achieve sustainable results."
Investment Strategies for Infrastructure Stocks
Investing in infrastructure stocks involves considering various strategies tailored to specific investment goals, risk profiles, and market conditions. In this section, we explore the significance of these strategies, providing insights into how they can enhance an investor's portfolio and ensure better returns over time.
Infrastructure investments tend to be capital intensive, requiring a long horizon for significant returns. Thus, both short-term and long-term strategies must be understood for effective capital allocation. Each strategy presents unique advantages, and a careful selection can provide substantial benefits given the characteristics of this sector. Understanding the nuances can aid investors in working towards their financial objectives.
Long-term vs Short-term Investment Strategies
Long-term investment strategies are typically geared towards steady growth. Investors often favor these in infrastructure for several reasons:
- Stability: Infrastructure projects generally face less volatility compared to other sectors. They are less affected by market swings, providing a reliable revenue stream.
- Compounding Returns: Holding stocks long-term allows for the compounding of returns. This is particularly advantageous in infrastructure stocks as dividends can be attractive.
- Transformation of Asset Values: Over time, infrastructure assets can significantly appreciate due to increased demand and improvement in operational efficiency.
Short-term strategies, on the other hand, focus on capitalizing on market fluctuations and may involve higher risks. Key advantages include:
- Opportunity Exploitation: Investors can take advantage of immediate market trends or specific events affecting stock prices. Fluctuations can present good buying or selling opportunities.
- Tactical Allocation: Short-term trading allows for more flexible portfolio adjustments depending on market conditions, which can maximize returns periodically.
- Liquidity: A short-term strategy might also be beneficial for those needing quick access to cash, allowing them to liquidate an investment faster than a long-term hold would permit.


Deciding between these strategies often depends on the investorโs risk tolerance, investment horizon, and market conditions. The ideal approach may incorporate elements of both.
Portfolio Diversification
Diversification remains a crucial aspect when constructing an investment portfolio, especially in the infrastructure sector. Here are some reasons why diversification is essential:
- Risk Mitigation: By spreading investments across various infrastructure stocks and sectors, an investor can minimize the impact of poor performance by any single entity. This balances overall portfolio risk.
- Access to Varied Revenue Streams: Different infrastructure projects may serve different markets or sectors, allowing for multiple income opportunities. Investing in transportation, utilities, and real estate infrastructure can provide diverse revenue streams.
- Market Cyclicality: Infrastructure investments often react differently to economic cycles. While some might thrive during economic expansion, others might perform better in downturns.
"A diversified portfolio reduces risk and enhances the likelihood of more stable overall returns over time."
When creating a diversified portfolio, investors can look into:
- Geographic Diversification: Investing in various regions can protect against local economic downturns.
- Sector Diversification: Including various forms of infrastructure, such as renewable energy or traditional utilities, can buffer against sector-specific downturns.
- Investment Vehicles: Using ETFs or mutual funds that focus on infrastructure can help streamline the diversification process.
Case Studies of Successful Infrastructure Investments
The analysis of successful infrastructure investments serves a vital role in understanding the dynamics of the sector. Learning from historical cases helps investors identify winning strategies and factors that led to favorable outcomes. Successful case studies offer essential insights into how economic, regulatory, and technological landscapes interact to yield substantial returns. These explorations delve into the specifics of project planning, financing, and execution, highlighting best practices while avoiding potential pitfalls.
Historical Success Stories
Several notable infrastructure projects around the globe showcase the potential for success in this sector. One prominent example is the London Crossrail project. This ambitious initiative involved the construction of a new railway line underneath the city. The project aimed to increase capacity and reduce travel times across London, providing a significant boost to the local economy. With a total estimated cost of around ยฃ18 billion, the project's planning began in 2001 and it is expected to complete in the late 2020s. This long-term investment is expected to yield not only improved transport links but also job creation and enhanced property values in surrounding areas.
Another exemplary case is the California High-Speed Rail system. Initiated in 2008, this project aims to connect major cities within California, generating a more efficient transportation option than conventional rail. Despite facing various challenges, including political opposition and budget overruns, the project offers a glimpse into the potential benefits of infrastructure investment. The expected growth in ridership and reduction of traffic congestion demonstrate why such high-profile investments are often pursued despite the challenges.
Ultimately, learning from these historical success stories reveals critical components that contribute to the viability of infrastructure projects. These projects illustrate how effective management, substantial government backing, and clear execution plans are essential for success.
Lessons Learned
Investors can draw numerous lessons from reviewing successful infrastructure investments. Here are some notable considerations:
- Comprehensive Planning: Projects like Crossrail exhibited the significance of thorough planning, ensuring that all aspects were addressed before execution. Comprehensive studies encompassing financial assessment, community impact, and regulatory compliance are crucial.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Successful infrastructure projects typically involve engaging stakeholders, including local communities and businesses. This helps create a supportive environment, mitigating opposition and enhancing collaboration.
- Flexible Financing: Infrastructure projects often require significant capital. Successful cases often demonstrate a mix of private and public funding to spread financial risk. Leveraging various funding sources, like government grants, loans, and private investments, can help maintain financial viability.
- Adaptability: Infrastructure investments must adapt to changes in market conditions and technology. Projects that have successfully adjusted their plans or designs in response to unforeseen challenges tend to fare better in the long run.
- Long-Term Outlook: Recognizing that infrastructure projects typically span years or decades is fundamental. Investors should adopt a long-term perspective, understanding that initial setbacks may yield positive returns over time.
In summary, by studying these case studies, investors gain valuable insights into the foundational elements that drive successful infrastructure projects. The lessons learned from these examples can help guide future investment decisions and contribute to smarter allocation of resources within the sector.
"Investing in infrastructure is not just about the present; itโs about building for the future. Understanding successful models is critical for achieving sustainable investments."
Overall, analyzing case studies of successful infrastructure investments fosters a deeper understanding of the sector and informs strategic decision-making for investors.
Investor Considerations
When exploring infrastructure stocks, it's essential to address several key investor considerations. These factors enable individuals to tailor their approach to investment based on their personal profiles and market conditions. Understanding these elements can significantly influence the outcome of one's investing journey.
Risk Appetite
Risk appetite refers to the level of risk an investor is willing to take when making investment decisions. In the infrastructure sector, this aspect varies among investors. Some may lean towards highly stable operations that ensure lower volatility, while others might seek higher returns from emerging or less established firms. When assessing potential investments, consider the following aspects:
- Volatility: Infrastructure stocks can fluctuate based on economic conditions and government policies. Investors with a lower risk tolerance might prefer established companies like American Tower or Duke Energy, known for their consistent performance.
- Growth Potential: For those with a higher risk appetite, newer companies in renewable energy or smart infrastructure present a chance for significant growth but come with added uncertainty.
Evaluating one's own comfort with risk is vital. It shapes the decision-making process regarding what types of infrastructure stocks to pursue, thus aligning investments with personal financial goals.
Time Commitment
The time commitment involved in managing investments is another important dimension. Infrastructure investing can be strategic and may require different levels of engagement, depending on the investor's approach. Consider the following:
- Active vs Passive Investment: Investors must decide whether to adopt an active strategy, which involves frequent trading and analysis, or a passive strategy, focusing on long-term hold of stocks. Active investors might track market trends closely, while passive investors may seek broad exposure through index funds that cover infrastructure-related sectors, like the iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF.
- Monitoring Performance: Regular assessment of investments is necessary to ensure they align with market changes. Investors should set aside time to review their portfolios, analyze financial reports, and stay informed about sector developments.
Ultimately, investors should evaluate their own time resources and how much they can devote to tracking their investments. Proper time management can lead to better decision-making, ensuring informed choices regarding infrastructure stocks.
"An informed investor makes choices based on understanding. Evaluating your risk and time commitment can enhance your success in this market."
By considering these factors, investors can navigate the infrastructure sector more effectively, aligning their strategies with their personal priorities and market realities.
Finale
In this article, we have navigated through the complex terrain of infrastructure stocks, highlighting their significance in the current economic landscape. The infrastructure sector plays a pivotal role in sustaining economic growth and development. Thus, understanding this sector's dynamics is essential for investors seeking stable and potentially prosperous opportunities.
Summary of Findings
The analysis revealed several key takeaways:
- Robust Market Trends: The increasing need for modernization and sustainable development drives demand for infrastructure.
- Diverse Investment Opportunities: Various companies such as Caterpillar and Brookfield Infrastructure Partners offer different avenues for investment, each with unique strengths.
- Performance Metrics Matter: Investors must focus on revenue growth, debt management, and dividend yields to gauge a company's stability and potential returns.
- Future Opportunities: Policymaker commitments to infrastructure spending, alongside advancements in technology, point toward significant future growth in this sector.
These findings underscore the importance of a methodical approach when considering infrastructure investments. Investors should remain updated on market trends and be prepared to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Final Investment Recommendations
As we conclude, it is prudent to offer some investment recommendations:
- Evaluate Risk Tolerance: Assess personal risk appetite before investing. Infrastructure can offer stability but is not immune to risks.
- Diversify Portfolio: Consider an array of infrastructure stocks and funds. This diversification can help mitigate specific sector risks.
- Focus on Long-term Growth: Infrastructure investments often yield benefits over extended periods. Prepare for patient, steady growth rather than quick returns.
- Stay Informed on Policies: Keep abreast of government spending initiatives, as these can significantly affect infrastructure growth and investment returns.
In summary, while infrastructure investments carry their complexities, they also offer significant opportunities for discerning investors. Thoughtful consideration of personal investment goals, informed by the findings presented in this article, will lead to better investment outcomes.