Limit turnover to boost results

Article Excerpt

Many investors wonder how often they should sell investments they own and buy new ones. The answer is simple: With quality stocks, do it as rarely as possible. That’s because portfolio turnover cuts into your profits. You face three main costs every time you buy and sell a stock: 1. Human error. You won’t likely sell at the top, nor buy back at the bottom. But you may do the reverse. 2. Taxes: If you sell at a profit in your taxable account (outside your RRSP or tax-free savings account), you are liable for capital-gains tax. 3. Brokerage commissions. Every transaction you make in your portfolio involves brokerage commissions or similar costs, even if these costs are hidden or built into the price you pay or receive. receive. …