How to Select Bond Screening Software
Nobody can consistently and accurately predict which stocks and bonds will outperform other ones. However, bond screening software makes it possible for you to track the past returns on bonds, manage your own bond investments and compare one bond to another so you can decide which investment is right for you. There are several levels of screening software, from the simple to the complex, that will will help you make the best investment choices no matter what your investment style.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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Screen Bonds and Manage Money with Software
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1
Create a simple system of tracking your investments using a spreadsheet. The most popular spreadsheet programs are Microsoft Excel and Mariner Calc by Mariner Software.
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2
Follow historical data charts in order to spot trends that are likely to repeat. Once you chart this information, you can screen out which bonds might have better returns in the future. Software like this is known as technical analysis software.
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3
Select a package according to whether you are a small or large investor, from an occasional trader to a professional. One example of a high-end package is MetaStock Professional (see Resources below).
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4
Allow a software program to make picks for you if you want something automatic. A screening package such as OmniTrader will will help you do just that (see Resources below). It was designed for prospecting and will easily allow you to screen different bonds and other securities and make quick decisions on which to buy.
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5
Grow your money by investing for the long term. If you are the type of investor who likes to ride out the highs and lows of the market, select software such as Position Cost Averaging by Stock System (see Resources below). It is programmed to help you buy low and sell high for the greatest gains over the long term.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Make your own decisions when it comes to investing. Software can show you past trends, screen securities, tell you when is a good time to buy or predict emerging patterns. However, only you can decide what level of risk you are comfortable with and select your own investments.
Especially when dealing with higher-risk investments, don't invent more money than you can afford to lose.
