By ASX

Summer holidays are always a great time to catch up on reading. With that in mind, here are 10 of the most popular stories from ASX Investor Update in 2010 for investors who may have missed them first time around, or want to revisit themes and ideas.

1. Top Stocks for 2011

In the latest instalment of Top Stocks, author Martin Roth says astute investors who buy quality companies, rather than worrying about the direction of the overall market, could realise some impressive long-term gains.

2. Best-value shares

Independent analyst Roger Montgomery shows how to spot the difference between value and 'value traps'.

3. Income essentials

Learn how dividends and franking credits work, in this story by Owen Richards of the Australian Investors Association.

4. 18 standout stocks

Some companies are doing a good job growing revenues, profits and dividends. Here are the companies that meet Lincoln's criteria of strong 'financial health' during the profit season. By Tim Lincoln.

5. Avoiding margin calls

Julie McKay of Leveraged Equities shows how to build a successful geared portfolio that withstands volatility.

6. ETF super strategies

This article by Geoff Stewart of Macquarie shows simple ways to diversify your self managed super fund (SMSF) using Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

7. Top portfolio tip

Know how to improve returns and lower fees with a core/satellite portfolio strategy, in this article by Dixon Advisory's Nerida Cole.

8. 10 top super tips

SmartSuper's Bill Davies gives simple advice to get your SMSF in order.

9. Secret to higher returns

Choosing the right investment structure can make a huge difference to portfolio returns, writes Kris Vogelsong of Private Portfolio Managers.

10. Best A-REIT tips

Learn how to pick the best listed property investments this article by Intelligent Investor's Greg Hoffman.