Which analysis is best for long-term stock market investments?

  • By Carole Ann Furman

  • July 31, 2021
  • 8:40 pm BST

Fundamental analysis, technical analysis and quantitative analysis all form a vital part of choosing trading strategies in the various financial markets. These are often used to determine the potential risks and advantages of a long-term investment in the stock markets. Each method of analysis is used for its own set of circumstances and can reveal an array of crucial information that affects investment decisions.

Fundamental analysis allows investors to evaluate the value of an investment across a selection of markets. Technical analysis is more popular for the analysis of short-term investments in active trading, while quantitative analysis allows investors to evaluate a company’s financial conditions. Many investors choose one of these three methods for their long-term investment decisions. However, these types of analysis can prove to be most efficient when combined to form a well-rounded strategy. Here is a review of each method and its benefits.

Fundamental analysis

Whether you’re looking to gain information about a company, a stock or the entire market, fundamental analysis is a common choice for traders preparing to make long-term investment decisions. Through this method of studying a company or market, investors can evaluate the extent of a security’s value and how it will affect their investment actions. This method compares tangible assets such as land and buildings with intangible assets such as trademarks and branding.

People who are planning to trade in stocks directly or those who are seeking CFD advice in the form of strategies will focus on factors that affect both the economy and the conditions in a specific industry. Based on the results, an investor will be able to determine the security of the value of an investment. This reveals whether an investment is worth buying or selling based on its price and the market conditions.

Technical analysis

Technical analysis encompasses the use of statistics and data to determine the value of securities. A collection of the history of stock prices and trade volumes is used to create charts displaying market patterns, which are then used to gain advantageous information. The main difference between fundamental and technical analysis is that fundamental analysis focuses on current conditions, while technical analysis uses data to predict future market trends. The patterns found in trends indicate the potential future conditions of security on the markets.

Another key difference is the fact that fundamental analysis monitors data over longer periods of time, while technical analysis monitors shorter periods. This is largely why technical analysis is used for short-term trading and investments. However, the techniques of technical analysis can be beneficial when implemented as part of long-term investment strategies.

Quantitative analysis

Quantitative analysis studies the history of a company or market conditions and performances to gain insight. There are two methods used in this form of analysis. The first is calculations based on earnings per share (EPS), which is a simpler approach. The second is more complicated and works with calculations like discounted cash flow (DCF). Although this method of analysis is efficient for determining the past performances of securities and markets, it should be used in conjunction with other methods as part of long-term investment strategies.

The key to any successful form of analysis in the markets is to broaden the scope of influential information. Evaluating data from long-term and short-term performances allows for a deeper insight into current and future market conditions. The risks and benefits found through this analysis make decisions clearer and opportunities easier to recognize. It is also vital to keep in mind that as the stock market (or any relevant market) changes, analysis should be reviewed to stay updated. The best long-term investment strategy will combine these three methods of analysis to produce an informed and diverse approach.