The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing is a classic guide to smart investing, written by mutual fund pioneer John C. Bogle. Bogle advocates for a simple yet powerful investment strategy: buy and hold low-cost index funds that track broad stock market indices like the S&P 500. This approach ensures that investors receive their fair share of market returns while minimizing costs and risks associated with individual stocks or active management. The book has endured through various market conditions and remains a trusted resource for investors seeking long-term financial growth. In this tenth anniversary edition, Bogle updates his insights with new data and adds two chapters focused on asset allocation and retirement investing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the sources of stock returns—dividend yield, earnings growth, and market valuation—to set realistic expectations. Bogle's strategy is backed by some of the world's most respected financial minds, including Warren Buffett, Benjamin Graham, and David Swensen. By focusing on index investing, investors can avoid the pitfalls of market timing and frantic trading, ultimately achieving their financial goals through a disciplined and cost-effective approach.

Reviews

The Poor Swiss · Mr. The Poor Swiss · 2026-01-12

good 3.00

The book is a solid introduction to passive investing, but it can be repetitive and lacks depth on certain topics. It's a good starting point for those new to index funds.

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing provides a clear and concise introduction to the world of passive investing. The author, John Bogle, is a pioneer in the field, and his insights are valuable for anyone looking to understand the basics of index funds. However, the book can be somewhat repetitive, and it may not offer enough depth for those who are already familiar with the concepts. It's a good starting point, especially for beginners, but it might not be as enlightening for more experienced investors. The emphasis on low-cost index funds is a recurring theme, and while it's a crucial message, it's delivered in a way that can feel redundant at times. Overall, it's a good book, but it might not be the most comprehensive guide available.

Quick quotes

Overall, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing is good.

If you already think that passive index funds are better than active funds or stock picking, you might find this book a bit repetitive.

It's one of the better investing books I've read, but it could use more depth on certain topics.

Investment News · 2026-01-11

timeless 4.50

The book remains a timeless roadmap to long-term wealth building, emphasizing the importance of low-cost index funds. It's a must-read for any investor.

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle is often regarded as a timeless investment guide. The book's emphasis on low-cost index funds and long-term wealth building is a message that continues to resonate with investors today. For many, it serves as a clear roadmap to navigating the complexities of the market. The author's insights are particularly valuable for those looking to build a solid foundation in their investment strategy. The book's timeless advice makes it a must-read, regardless of the current market conditions. It's a book that can help investors stay focused on their long-term goals, even in the face of short-term market fluctuations. The simplicity and clarity of the message are what make this book so enduring.

Quick quotes

For many investors, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle remains one of the clearest roadmaps to long-term wealth building.

The author's insights are particularly valuable for those looking to build a solid foundation in their investment strategy.

The book's timeless advice makes it a must-read, regardless of the current market conditions.

AU Bank · 2020-05-06

practical 4.00

This book is one of the best investing books for beginners, offering practical advice and real facts that can't be ignored. It's a must-read for anyone new to the stock market.

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle is highly recommended for beginners in the stock market. The book provides practical advice and real facts that are crucial for new investors. It's a must-read for anyone looking to understand the basics of investing. The author's emphasis on low-cost index funds and long-term wealth building is a recurring theme, and it's a message that resonates strongly with readers. The book's simplicity and clarity make it an excellent starting point for those new to the world of funds. It's a book that can help beginners build a solid foundation in their investment strategy. The practical advice and real-world examples make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to get smart about the market.

Quick quotes

"The Little Book of Common Sense Investing" – by John C. Bogle is one of the best investing books for beginners, which can really help you.

It's a must-read for anyone new to the stock market.

The book provides practical advice and real facts that are crucial for new investors.

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