Biography
Benjamin Graham, well known for investing community has brought investing to masses by focussing on analysis and risk control. After graduating from Columbia University, co-founded the Graham Newman Corporation. Benjamin Graham book list covers Security Analysis and The Intelligent Investor which shaped many generations of professionals. He is regarded as a mentor to Warren Buffett as his ideas form the basis of value investing.
Author Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Born On | 1894 (1) |
| Genre | finance (2), nonfiction (30) |
| Category | Wealth (107) |
| Topics | behavior (66), investing (2), markets (4), risk (54), valuation (1) |
| Audiences | analysts (28), investors (176), mbas (1), portfolio managers (1), students (3111) |
Popularity Score
Benjamin Graham (1894–1976) is the seminal figure behind value investing and a foundational voice in modern finance. As co-author of Security Analysis and author of The Intelligent Investor, he laid out methods for calculating intrinsic value and protecting capital with a margin of safety. He taught at Columbia Business School, mentoring Warren Buffett and other luminaries. For readers exploring the Benjamin Graham book list, his works remain essential for both defensive and enterprising investors seeking disciplined, long-term approaches to building wealth.
Interview Questions
What core principle defines your approach to value investing?
Buy securities at prices meaningfully below a conservatively estimated intrinsic value. This margin of safety acknowledges that analysis is imperfect and markets are unpredictable, so a discount protects capital while allowing favorable outcomes over time.
How should a defensive (everyday) investor proceed?
Keep it simple and disciplined: diversify broadly, avoid speculation, focus on quality and reasonable prices, and maintain an asset allocation that fits your temperament. Emphasize long-term results over short-term forecasts and resist market fads.
How do you estimate intrinsic value in practice?
Rely on fundamentals—assets, earnings power, and dividends—using conservative assumptions. Favor methods you can explain and defend, such as normalized earnings and asset-based checks, rather than elaborate forecasts that invite error.
What key lesson did the Great Depression teach you?
Markets can become irrational for long stretches, and leverage magnifies vulnerability. Sound analysis must be paired with prudence, ample liquidity, and a margin of safety to survive extremes and capitalize on opportunities.
What common mistake do investors make?
They confuse speculation with investment, paying too much attention to price trends and too little to underlying value. Discipline, skepticism, and patience are essential antidotes.