Short selling is oft regarded as one of those interesting but tricky things experienced traders do to boost their profits. Long-viewed as somehow illicit (it's not, of course) or unethical (that's debatable: think Joe Kennedy in 1929 or George Soros in 1992), short selling actually is a clever way for serious investors to profit, especially in down markets. But it's not for everyone. How, then, can investors determine exactly what short selling is, what it does, and why it is used? What Is Short Selling? provides readers with answers to all these questions - and more. Following the unique format of the best-selling What Is Six Sigma? this handy guide providers investors with a primer to help them understand the nuances of this sophisticated trading technique. Short selling is the act of selling a security you don't own, assuming the risk that you will be able to buy the stock at a lower price and turn a profit. Because of its reputation as a complicated trading tool, though, novice investors often are encouraged to avoid short selling, as are those investors who are risk-averse. But short selling is a legitimate tool that, when used carefully, can turn a neat profit for those investors who do their homework. What Is Short Selling? is the perfect place to start for those investors who have heard of the technique but don't know where to find reliable information. From the author who gave us The Streetsmart Guide to Short Selling, this handy guide is full of concise, important information to help investors decide whether short selling is for them and how to take the first steps toward using the technique. Unlike most short selling guides which are geared toward experienced professional traders, What Is Short Selling? provides readers with a snapshot of the key information they need to know to get started. Short selling is neither horribly complex nor very simple, but those who decide to sell a stock short must conduct thorough research and often must be willing to take on more risk than investors going long. What Is Short Selling? will explain the basics to the reader as well as essential other information, including: Why short selling is a good tool for hedging and speculating; What restrictions there are on short selling; What risks are involved with short selling; From the basics of short selling to spotting ideal candidates to tax issues, What Is Short Selling? is the perfect guide for readers who want to know more about this useful technique.

Author Biography

Tom Taulli (Ventura, CA) is founder of the online investment company WebIPO and is the author of The Streetsmart Guide to Short Selling. 10 Illustrations