In Conversation with David Booth

Written by Josh Matthews, HBA

I caught up with David Booth for breakfast in California this week, where we discussed his upcoming new book, Stay Calm.

As a reminder, David is the founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, one of the pioneers of index investing, and the namesake benefactor of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. I last caught up with David three years ago ahead of the launch of Tune Out the Noise, which I wrote about here:

David’s new book is a great read, focused on learning to embrace uncertainty, both in investing and in life. It offers practical wisdom on staying disciplined, keeping perspective, and remaining calm when markets and circumstances become unpredictable.

“I hope Stay Calm will be a book your clients and prospects can take home and share with family and friends, one that will help them understand both the science and the mindset behind building true wealth.”- David Booth

David kindly shared a sneak preview with me, although the manuscript is still in editing mode and not yet available to the public. Keep an eye out for it online in the coming months, with an expected launch in September.

It was a pleasure reconnecting and hearing David’s latest thinking. As always, his perspective is timeless, thoughtful, and highly relevant in today’s world.

Further listening:

To find out more, follow the link below in which Dimensional Founder David Booth explains that there are parallels between the way we manage uncertainty in life and the core principles of a good investment experience.

https://youtu.be/Grf4szeaX2g

THE MIRACLE OF PUBLIC MARKETS

“Over the long term, when we invest in the market, we’re doing more than investing in companies; we’re investing in human potential, in the collective ingenuity of people all over the world working to create a better future.” – David Booth

TRUSTED ADVISORS HELP INVESTORS STAY CALM

“Here’s why professional guidance matters so much; investing is complex, and human beings are wired to make predictable mistakes. We panic and sell at the bottom. We get greedy and chase yesterday’s winners. We mistake activity for achievement. A good financial advisor doesn’t just manage your money, they manage your behavior. They help you stay disciplined when every instinct screams at you to do something.” – David Booth