"يجب على المستثمرين دائماً الاحتفاظ بما لا يقل عن نصف محفظتهم نقداً."

Holding at least half of your investment portfolio in cash is a strategy that focuses on stability, flexibility, and preparedness for unexpected opportunities or downturns. The core idea here is that by retaining a significant amount of cash, investors can avoid the risk of being fully exposed during market downturns and have the liquidity to seize new opportunities as they arise.

To understand why someone might advocate for this approach, it's useful to have some context. This advice is often associated with conservative investment philosophies, particularly relevant during times of economic uncertainty or volatility. Think about the financial turmoil during major crashes like the Great Depression or the 2008 financial crisis. Those who had a substantial amount of cash on hand during these periods were better positioned to weather the storm and even capitalize on lower-priced assets when the market eventually rebounded.

Take, for example, Warren Buffet, one of the most successful investors of our time. While he doesn't keep half of his portfolio in cash, he famously ensures that his company, Berkshire Hathaway, always has a substantial cash reserve. When the stock market crashed in 2008, Buffet was able to invest billions in undervalued companies, leading to significant gains as the market recovered. This example shows the power of liquidity and the ability to act swiftly when opportunities present themselves.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom to your situation? First, assess your risk tolerance and financial goals. Keeping a large portion of your portfolio in cash might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you're aiming for high returns or have a long investment horizon. But if you're cautious or nearing retirement, this strategy could provide peace of mind and financial security.

Imagine you're saving for a down payment on a house within the next few years. You wouldn't want to invest all your savings in the stock market because a market downturn could significantly reduce your funds right when you need them. By keeping a substantial amount in cash, you ensure that you'll have the necessary liquidity when it's time to make that down payment, regardless of market conditions.

Let's say your friend John decided to invest heavily in the stock market, seeking high returns. He enjoyed some great years of growth, but then the market took a sharp downturn, and his portfolio lost significant value. John was forced to sell at a loss because he needed the cash for an unexpected expense. On the other hand, if John had kept a sizable portion of his portfolio in cash, he could have avoided selling his investments at a loss and used his cash reserves to cover his needs.

In essence, think of holding cash as having a safety net. It's not about avoiding risks entirely but about managing them smartly. This strategy isn't for everyone, but it can be a valuable piece of advice for those who prioritize stability and preparedness over high returns. Whether you're just starting your investment journey or reassessing your strategy, consider how liquidity and flexibility can play crucial roles in achieving your financial goals.