How long should I hold on to a badly performing fund?

Warren Baldwin, vice-president of T.E. Financial Consultants, has the answer.

Warren Baldwin 10 February, 2005 | 2:00PM
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Dear Expert,

Is there a general rule of thumb to help me determine how long I should hold on to a fund that is not performing well?

Expert Answer:

No, there is no all-purpose rule of thumb. The realization that a fund is "not performing" is a complex issue, and for many investors, it may come after a year or two of underperformance (sometimes severe underperformance). That said, the best way to assess whether you should sell a fund is to try to decide if and why you would purchase that same fund today, forgetting of course that you already own it.

If you would definitely consider purchasing the fund despite the recent underperformance, then likely it may make sense to keep it. If there is no way you would ever invest in this fund today (given its history, style, management, costs, etc.) then in my mind you are ready to sell and should do so now.

Be careful to analyze all aspects of the fund -- for example, value funds looked pretty sad during the heyday of the high-tech boom market, but their style was defensive and they preformed well when the market cycle turned.

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No statement in this article should be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell securities or to provide investment advice or individual financial planning. Morningstar Canada does not provide specific portfolio advice and recommends the use of a qualified financial planner when appropriate.

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Warren Baldwin

Warren Baldwin  

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