The purpose of AIN Member Highlights is to share knowledge with other investors, discuss different investor experiences, and encourage other AIN members.
Carlos Saavedra shares his investing journey and tips for our latest feature!
Tell us a bit about you!
I am an Associate with DWS (a Deutsche Bank entity) in their illiquid direct real estate fund. Started my career as an analyst at NorthMarq Capital raising debt and equity for real estate investors. Graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a B.S. in Economics. CFA® charterholder. Actively invest in real estate, cryptocurrency and stocks. Recently began importing / exporting consumer goods to Latin America.
How did you get into investing? How did you come up with the initial capital?
I started with my family. First helping my dad fix and flip real estate properties. During college I actively invested in stocks. I used my student loans to invest in the market and was able to pay off my debt with the gains I made by the time I graduated.
What’s your investing philosophy? What does success in investing look like to you?
I aim to beat the SP500 index on a consistent basis with less risk. I do this by buying into momentum of consistently growing companies with strong cash flow potential and sound fundamentals. Success means being able to do what I want whenever I want.
If you were to give high level tips on investing – the advice that provides the greatest results, what would it be?
Study up on the market you’re interested in. Think critically to come up with your own investment ideas. Invest with conviction when ready. Be your own worst critic.
How do you analyze investments? How do you decide what to invest in?
I have a model in python that optimizes for an efficient portfolio. I invest in company’s with superior risk-adjusted returns that have low correlation with existing investments in my portfolio.
What’s your philosophy about risk in investing? How do you manage risk?
Have clear goals and expectations when making investments. Be aware of cognitive biases and mental errors made when markets are in turmoil. Always buy when people are afraid and be skeptical when people are greedy. I am to diversify as much as possible.
What are some mistakes you’ve experienced during your investing journey, and what are the lessons you learned from them?
Sold too soon out of high potential investments. I’ve since learned to ride the wave of momentum and have higher aspirations for performance returns.
If you could go back in time and advise your 18-year-old self, what advice would you give?
Go all in on bitcoin and don’t sell too soon!
What’s the best way to get started as a newer investor?
Save enough so you have excess funds you don’t mind losing. Then invest in things you understand.
Carlos Saavedra can be reached here.
He is looking to invest in the private markets, so send deals if available.