In Pursuit of the Perfect Portfolio

The Stories, Voices, and Key Insights of the Pioneers Who Shaped the Way We Invest

By: Andrew W. Lo, Stephen R. Foerster

Narrated by: BJ Harrison

Is there an ideal portfolio of investment assets, one that perfectly balances risk and reward? In Pursuit of the Perfect Portfolio examines this question by profiling and interviewing ten of the most prominent figures in the finance world—Jack Bogle, Charley Ellis, Gene Fama, Marty Leibowitz, Harry Markowitz, Bob Merton, Myron Scholes, Bill Sharpe, Bob Shiller, and Jeremy Siegel. We learn about the personal and intellectual journeys of these luminaries and their most innovative contributions. In the process, we come to understand how the science of modern investing came to be. Each of these finance greats discusses their idea of a perfect portfolio, offering invaluable insights to today's investors.

Inspiring such monikers as the Bond Guru, Wall Street's Wisest Man, and the Wizard of Wharton, these pioneers of investment management provide candid perspectives, both expected and surprising, on a vast array of investment topics—effective diversification, passive versus active investment, security selection and market timing, foreign versus domestic investments, derivative securities, nontraditional assets, irrational investing, and so much more. While the perfect portfolio is ultimately a moving target based on individual age and stage in life, market conditions, and short- and long-term goals, the fundamental principles for success remain constant.

©2021 Andrew W. Lo and Stephen R. Foerster (P)2021 Gildan Media

Great book

Great summary of some of the most influential financial thinkers, and how to draw their insights into personal portfolio management

In depth and historical insights of how we got the backbone of financial theory

Loved how learned the why behind the major theories and formulas. Helps with a broad understanding of investing

Excellent Port Mgmt History and Wrap-Up

I enjoyed the history, the relevant highlights about the industry leaders, the lessons learned, the knowledge content and the wrap up. A ton of material all in one place.

OK, sort of slack, not penetrating insights

This book seems halfway between a bio of academic figures, and a history and survey of their key ideas. I have made some prior survey of these matters. This did not add much to my knowledge or insights. It never gets much beyond sketchy basics about the ideas. I prefer The Myth of the Rational Market by Justin Fox, which I find more listenable and more informative. It is fine basic information and background, and I suppose I might like it better if I had no prior exposure. The narrator is about as slack as the content. With the right book, his loose, sunny, undulating vocal style can be good, but not a technical one like this.