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Learn your lesson from the Market

World events in 2003 were dominated by SARS, the war in Iraq and the turnaround of most major economies. In Australia, property prices started to slow following the recent increases in interest rates. It was also one of the best years in recent memory for the Australian sharemarket.

World sharemarkets set all time highs in 2000 but since then have generally been in decline. There is however, mounting evidence that this past year has been the low point for the current bear market and things are starting to look better. Since the war in Iraq, most sharemarkets around the world have risen 20% or more, and most economic indicators are turning to an expansionary or growth bias.

This means now is a great time to get ready for what could be shaping up to be a very good year for investors.

An important part of being a successful investor is investing in the right areas at the right time. More financial products are available today than ever before, each offering different risks and rewards. The key to successful investing is knowledge. Investors need to understand what each investment offers and how it could be used to boost their returns. For instance, many people say they are too conservative to use options, but there are some very simple option strategies that will reduce the risk of holding shares - all it takes is some time to learn how.

ASX offers a wide range of classes for everyone from the absolute beginner to the seasoned investor. ASX has many years experience in providing practical, thorough and responsible investment education, both online and offline. You can enrol in any of our online classes today for free. 

From the beginner's perspective ASX offer 4 classes, which will provide you with a firm grasp of the main themes of investing in the sharemarket. To quote the famous musical, it is a good idea to "start at the very beginning" and 'Starting in the sharemarket' is the class that will give you the knowledge you need to enter the market for the first time. The next 3 classes will develop the skills needed to track and analyse investment and help you develop your own portfolio.

ASX also offers a range of classes covering Options, Warrants, Interest Rate securities and international investing. The classes can be taken online for free. Each is designed to give investors the knowledge they need to invest for long-term wealth creation.

For more information on the classes offered by ASX, please speak to your adviser, call ASX on 131 279, or visit the links above.

ASX is interested in your thoughts, please email any comments or feedback on this article.