“Investment” is a word often used merely as an excuse to justify buying something that the buyer cannot afford. Some times it is hard to draw the line; but to play safe, let’s not call a purchase an investment unless we expect it to result in a measurable financial benefit, either to reduce living expenses or to increase income, or to cause capital to grow in market value.

Driving a fast, showy new automobile is, for some people, the main reason for living. But no matter how marvelous the car, it hardly figures as an investment, largely because the resale value depreciates so fast and so far. Certified Financial Planner - Read More.