Interesting financial perspective from Sir Alan Sugar.

Sir Alan Sugar is one of my favorite business people. A very down to earth, smart, results orientated and world class businessman. I am a big fan, as also of Richard Branson.

Learning from, and listening to, the world’s best is a good habit.

Sir Alan has some key views concerning obtaining financial advice – very appropriate for these times too.

What he has to say makes simple sense. But then, simple stuff can often be the best.

SIR ALAN SUGAR: The so-called experts know double naff-all

Ironically, when I was involved with my father concerning investments (he is a world class share trader) I lost money. The only time I have made money share trading was when I did it myself. I was left out to dry by my Dad, after being told I would get personal assistance, and even have suspicions that on one occasion he deliberately set me up for a big drop too.

Stupidly I trusted my father, despite many warning signs over many years in many situations. Part of me hoped for better things in my relationship with him, beyond the point of rational hope. The survival of the fittest and natural selection is a life principle. Trusting my father in the way I did was my own stupid fault. Life kicked me. Stinking thinking. A lot of people blame circumstances for their misfortune, when often it is their own stupid fault.

Are there areas in your business or financial life where you are not thinking right?

What warning signs have you seen?

What warning signs have you ignored? Yes, ignored – like me.

Is your financial adviser any good? Would what you do pass Sir Alan’s scrutiny do you think?

What about your personal life? Here on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia we had a case where a young guy decided to swim across a canal one night as a short cut home. He got attacked by a Bull Shark and died. Sharks are a well known risk in canals and waterways here. The guy failed to think correctly and paid with his life. Another example of natural selection of the fittest.

Do you swim with financial sharks? Do you know much about the people you entrust your money to, or receive advice from?

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4. Logo designs affected by the financial crisis.
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