Taj McCree is an attorney for the U.S. Federal Government. He says the attention to detail and voluminous reading required in his job have served him well as a value investor, which requires significant legwork in analyzing complex situations in the hunt for underpriced stocks. McCree describes his investment approach as follows:
I look for companies that are stable and produce dividends, or stable and undervalued. This strategy ensures a good mix of investments for my portfolio. I do not invest in high risk or speculative investments, and I prefer a fundamental approach to investing, focusing on those industries and regions with the most promise for growth and stability over the long-term. I have a cautious approach to buying and selling. Each trade is carefully evaluated. I never invest in securities hyped on television or through the financial rumor mill. I only invest in industries I understand and thoroughly research.
McCree bought his first stock while in college, but had been tracking the market since he was young:
My parents introduced me to a broker when I was around 12 years old. I was instantly hooked. I have followed the markets since that time, through the bubbles and bursts, bears and bulls, until I finally had enough income to begin investing myself. I dabbled at first, learning my way around. In 1998 I got serious and started investing small amounts in the market. Around 2006 I began investing much more. Over the last 3 years I have taken an interest in value investing.
Here’s what McCree likes to do in his downtime:
I am an avid recreationalist, a PADI certified rescue diver, USPA licensed skydiver and recreational motorcyclist. Although at first glance it may appear that I am a thrill seeker (which I readily admit), I am also safety conscious and risk-averse. Stephen King is my favorite modern author, but I also read classic from the likes of Steinbeck and Orson Wells.
McCree manages Covestor’s Value and Growth 2 model with current (8/16/11) top positions including Bank of America (NYSE: BAC) and Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS).
