Momentum versus value: Finding the balance in risk-conscious investing

The trick is finding that balance.

By Prashasta Seth

Investing is a tricky business, which needs a judicious mix of calculated risk and wise decision-making. For cautious investors, this is a constant battle as they are never satisfied with less than the ideal balance between high returns and minimum risk.

Two well-known investment approaches, momentum and value, tend to be placed side by side with investors trying to strike the perfect equilibrium. In this article, we shall cover the differences between these two strategies and how investors can achieve the perfect balance in their investment journey.

Understanding momentum investing

Momentum investing is a technique in which investors seek out stocks or investments that are on the rise. The belief is to catch this upward momentum and sell before it turns down. This is a strategy that hinges on the premise that stocks or investments that are performing well now will continue to perform well in the future. Momentum investors use technical analysis like price charts and trend lines to determine when and where they should invest.

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Investing in value

Conversely, value investing involves searching for shares or assets that are undervalued in the market. The concept is to purchase these shares at a reduced price and hold them until their actual worth is reflected by the market.

This approach is founded on the premise that markets overreact to both good and bad news, leading to stocks being undervalued or overvalued. Value investors use fundamental analysis, including financial reports and company analysis, to spot potential investments.

The pros and cons of each strategy

Like any investment strategy, there are advantages and disadvantages to both momentum and value investing.

Momentum investing has the possibility of huge returns in a short time span, which would be attractive for investors. At the same time, it carries a greater risk since the trend may turn against it at any moment.

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Alternatively, value investing has a lower risk factor since stocks that are underpriced have the potential to rise. But it needs patience because it can take time for the stock to hit the value the investor believes it should trade at.

Finding the balance

So, which approach is more suitable for risk-averse investors? The reality is, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every investor has a different risk tolerance and investment horizon. While some might be inclined towards the promise of high returns provided by momentum investing, others may opt for the security and lower risk of value investing. The most important thing is to strike a balance between the two approaches that is suitable for your investment horizon and risk tolerance.

Tips for finding the happy middle

The following are some tips that will assist you in finding the appropriate balance between momentum and value investing:

1. Know your risk tolerance: Knowing how much of a chance to take will assist you in knowing which strategy, momentum or value, is better for you.

2. Diversify your portfolio: Having your holdings in different kinds of asset is important in any investment plan. It minimises risk by diversifying your investments into various sectors and asset classes. This way, if one investment does not do well, others can cover the losses.

3. Monitor the market: Both value and momentum investing are dependent on trends and analysis of the market. Carefully watch the market in order to know your potential investment options and realign your strategy if necessary.

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4. Look to a hybrid strategy: Many opt for a mix of both momentum and value investing within their portfolio. This provides balance, where they can enjoy the possible high return of momentum investing and the consistency of value investing.

The bottom line

The key to investing is striking a precarious equilibrium between reward and risk, particularly for the risk-averse. The two popular methods—momentum and value investing—provide different approaches. Momentum investing looks for stocks trending upwards, expecting fast profits but with high risk of a trend reversal. Value investing is looking for undervalued stocks, requiring patience for long-term development with minimal risk. And the hybrid strategy as the term suggests is a mix of the two.

All three strategies have strengths and weaknesses. Momentum trading can provide a quick return on investment but also needs good timing, whereas value investing is consistent but needs holding power. The key to developing a successful investing strategy is diversified portfolios, keeping abreast of trend analysis, and adopting a mixture of both tactics.

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Ultimately, the trick is finding that balance. Investors need to investigate, determine how much risk they can tolerate, and match strategies with their own financial goals. Whether selecting a single strategy or a combination of both, sound planning results in long-term investing success.

The author is CEO of Prudent Investment Managers

Disclaimer: The views expressed by experts on Moneycontrol are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.